How to Fix A Crushed Ring

Whether it’s by a car, an unfortunate mishap with your own foot, or even a forklift (yes, we’ve heard it all) getting a ring crushed is no joke. You may be looking morosely at your item thinking that it’s time to toss the piece and get a new ring, but hold on- there may be a chance to repair it. Read on to learn more about how to fix a crushed ring.

Assessing the Damage

A class ring with a completely broken stone.

In order to evaluate the remnants of the ring and see if it’s salvageable, the jeweler has to thoroughly examine the piece. Is the setting mostly intact? Has it been completely flattened or can the metal be pushed back out and reshaped? Are the stones intact, chipped, crushed, or completely missing? Depending on the condition of the item, the jeweler decides on how to deal with the project.

Crushed Ring Restoration

If the ring’s setting is mostly intact and can be reshaped, the jeweler takes the original piece of metal. Using a variety of jeweler’s tools, the ring is coaxed out of its distorted and flattened shape and hammered back into its original form. The jeweler then checks to see if the settings for the stones are still in good condition and capable of holding the gemstone properly. Additional metal work such as rebuilding prong or bezel walls may be necessary.

Depending on the damage, it’s possible that the metal may be compromised in terms of strength and integrity. If this is the case, the jeweler can reinforce the band of the ring by providing a half or full shank replacement, which entails cutting off the original band and replacing it with a thicker and sturdier piece of metal suitable for daily wear.

Once the setting is back in shape, the jeweler resets the stones and polishes the item to remove any scratches and scuffs from damage. Any damaged or missing stones can be easily replaced with the help of a lapidary who can supply new gems for the ring.

Crushed Ring Recreation

A 3D design file for a custom made ring.

If the jeweler assesses the item and determines that the original setting cannot be restored, the only process available is custom creation. With the help of sketches, descriptions, and any pictures of the original ring, the jeweler creates a 3D design on a software designed for 3D printing. The design is printed out in wax and used as a casting mold for the metal.

Once the metal has been cast, the jeweler sets stones and finishes the item off with polishing and any other detailing work necessary. 

Cost and Turnaround Time

The restoration process for a crushed ring can be lengthy and expensive, but well worth it especially if it’s a sentimental item. For the restoration process, this can start at $150 and increase depending on the extent of work required in order to get the ring back into its original shape. Expect a turnaround time of at least 2 weeks for this procedure.

Custom creations start at $250 and up depending on material and labor costs needed in order to replicate the original ring design. Casting turnaround time is approximately 3 to 4 weeks after the initial 3D design is approved by the client.

Now you’re all set on how to fix a crushed ring! If you have any questions on how to get started, comment below and we’ll help you out.