Gold Over Silver Repair: Alternatives & Solutions

Question
Hi there
I have a bracelet which has split slightly near the clasp as it got caught on a door a bit- local Jeweler said gold over silver cannot be repaired as solder would ruin it- are there any alternatives to sturdying up the link? I love it so much but afraid to wear it, thanks so much for any advice!

Answer
This is one of those situations that would be difficult to give you a firm answer without examining the piece to see what needs to be repaired. What I can say is that if your piece is gold vermeil/plate over sterling silver (which should be stamped with sterling or 925, if so), then it is possible that a jeweler with a laser welder in his shop may be able to fix it. The laser welder has better pinpointing capabilities and does not need solder because it actually bonds the molecules of the metal, so see if you can locate a shop that has a laser welder. The cost of repairing it by laser may be more than what the piece cost, however. Again, it depends on how many welds are required, but laser welding repairs run more than bench/solder repairs. The welders are very expensive pieces of equipment.  Hope this helps. Good luck.