- Causes of gemstones falling out of their settings
Over time, the claws or claw rings that hold the gemstone in place may wear out or loosen, especially if the jewelry is worn frequently or during physical activity. When you remove your jewelry and accidentally drop it, a sudden impact or pressure can leave a hidden danger for the stone to fall out.
In some cases of craftsmanship, the setting may be poorly constructed or improperly secured, which can also make the gemstone more susceptible to dislodgement.
- What to do if a gemstone falls out of its setting?
A missing gemstone is like a missing tooth — when a piece of jewelry is missing a key component, it's hard not to notice!
If it detaches at the time, it can be retrieved nearby and placed back in a safe place to be brought in for prompt repair. Contact a reputable local jeweler or jewelry repair specialist, or of course look for after-sales customer service on the buying platform, take photos and email assess the damage and determine the best course of action to re-set the stone safely.
Take this opportunity to check other gemstone settings in your jewelry collection for signs of wear or looseness in case something happens later.
If faced with a gemstone that has disappeared without a trace, then you will need to pay for a new gemstone (based on real-time gemstone value)
Insurance is a great reimbursement when there is damage to jewelry that is lost. Many people will now insure their jewelry for the unexpected when they reach a certain value, which would be a sad loss. Pre-insurance usually covers a wide range of things, including accidental damage, loss, theft, and even mysterious disappearance of jewelry.
- Prevention of future problems
Tap the jewelry gently with the palm of your hand. If you hear any rattling or feel excessive movement, this may indicate that the stone has come loose during the setting process.
Have a magnifying glass at home and use a more specialized macro magnifier to look for gaps or spaces between the gemstone and the claw setting, and for signs of bending, thinning, or breaking of the metal.
Gently wiggle the stone with your finger or a soft tool. The gemstone should not move or shift in the setting. If you notice any movement in the stone, it may indicate that the stone is not securely fastened.
Regularly checking the setting for looseness is essential to maintaining the integrity of your jewelry and preventing the loss of gemstones. By incorporating these checking tips into your maintenance routine, you can rest assured that your jewelry will last for years to come!