QuestionQUESTION: I received an old piece of costume jewelry (by Sherman, a
Canadian company). The stones themselves are still bright,
unchipped & full of sparkle. The necklace itself is quite
gorgeous but the gold metal that the stones are set in is
worn down to the base metal except between settings.
Each of the many stones have prongs that hold them in
place & they can be lifted to remove the stones. I make
wire & beaded jewelry so can do this carefully.
Is there any way that the base metal can be coated again
or fixed up to look good once more? Very little is
actually seen once the necklace is on as most is just to
hold the stones & to provide a backing for the necklace.
But enough shows to detract from its looks.
I'd rather not have to send it away as it would be too
costly for myself & cost far more than the necklace is
worth. So any suggestions on things I could do myself
would be appreciated. I'm not without skill but this is
beyond me.
Thank you for any suggestions you can offer. If all else
fails, I can wear it as is if need be.
kind regards, Judy
ANSWER: Hello Judy and thank you for your inquiry. There are metallic paints in pen and liquid style on the market, usually found in craft stores. I have used them in small touchups especially on items that I keep for myself. It is costly to have items replated and since the item is costume and unless it is a rare piece worthy of the cost, you might try one of the above items. Keep in mind that "less is best" when applying and a coat of clear lacquer - metal or good nail clear sealer, is needed. Hope this helps and good luck.
PS I would always advise that if you sell the item, it is noted that the item has been "restored".
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Wow - thank you for such a speedy reply! I've used
metallic paints (if it's the same thing you mention) on
retouching old ornaments or knickknacks I've picked up 2nd
hand. Do you mean the acrylic metal paints? The type I
used gives a finely speckled appearance when dry, not
glossy smooth. The speckled appearance is due to the fine
flakes of metal in the paint, not to any fault in the
paint itself. I'd really prefer a smooth look IF possible.
And if metallic paints can be used, what do you think of
the idea of painting the base metal with the liquid PMC
(precious metal clay) that's available now? I realise it
would have to be 'fired' but at a much lower heat than
much metal work is done at.
If liquid PMC is suitable, would the heat from firing it
be okay for the base metal, do you think? The newer PMC3
allows for temperatures to be as low as 600 C. I honestly
wouldn't mind re-doing the necklace in silver rather than
gold as it would still complement the stones nicely. I
don't mind it being a exacting work as I love detail work.
Thank you for any additional info you can give!! I hope I
don't sound fussy - I'm just a bit of a perfectionist
WHERE it's possible. I like to say I'm a realistic
perfectionist. ;-)
AnswerI haven't tried any of the newer items available now, but I'm sure they are much better. What I used was just the regular metallic and gold leaf paints. There might be a problem with any heat if there are stones present in the jewelry. Some stones are pretty heat sensitive. I haven't used the silver as much as the gold. I've also used a fine emery board to smooth out any bumps before doing the lacquer. Good luck and let me know if you find something that is really outstanding. I just haven't had much time lately for it.
