Love Beauty >> Love Beauty >  >> FAQ >> Fashion >> Costume Jewelry Collecting >> Jewelry, Gems, Minerals

Costume Jewelry Repair: Soldering Iron Advice & Alternatives


Question
I have a small collection of costume jewelry (my treasures).  I had my children by me a small soldering iron for repairs!(like closing jump rings, etc.)  Come to find out it is not what I thought. Is it the material or the type of iron? (B&D craft and soldering iron)  What should I have bought?

Answer
Hello Kim and thank you for your inquiry. Unfortunately, I can't tell you much about soldering since I've never tried it, but I do know that it is difficult without a lot of practice. I would imagine the finest tip would be the best. I have listed a site below that may be of some help to you. Just copy and paste the below url into your browser address field and hit enter:

http://jewelrymaking.about.com/od/solderinginformation/Jewelry_Soldering_Info_an...

One thing I do know - don't try to solder around rhinestones. The heat will damage the stones. If I have a piece that is really worthy of saving, I take it to a professional for soldering.

Hope this helps and good luck !

Sally
jarrettsjade.com