Questionhi, I recently purchased a large sapphire ring and there are very small pits about the size of a pen tip...two of them. Can I have them filled with an epoxy what do you suggest? The stone is a 6.17ct oval cut color and clarity are fine graded. I would rather not take any more away from its form.
thanks
AnswerLeann, epoxy will work if of the clear sort. One brand stands out but is not easily found. Crafts store may have it or might be able to get it. This is Epoxy 330, by Hughes. It cures to a water clear and hard material.
Another option is the newer "UV" glue made for glass repairs. This stuff cures in sunlight or with a blacklight. It cures quite hard, is quite clear and might be better in the long run than epoxy. Put only the tiniest bit in the depressions, cure, then add a tiny bit more until built up to near the surface. Too thick does not cure well.
Oh, the stone should be very clean first. Wash with a soft tooth brush or similar with dish detergent, pat dry, dip in alcohol and allow to air dry. Then the cement will adhere the best and do the best job. This needs to be done with either epoxy or the uv curing cements.
The epoxy takes about 2 hours to cure unless gently heated after application. The uv cement cures in a minute or so but allow it more time in bright sun or under blacklight to become harder.
Let me know if this is what you need to know. If not, feel free to use the follow-up option and get back with me. I should be here after coming home from work.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas. August 28, 2007. 7:50pm
