QuestionI have a pair of omega back earrings in 18k gold that are waaaay too tight. I know that the backs can be loosened (if that's the right term). The question is: is this an adjustment that I can make by myself? How? Or do I need to seek professional help? I'm not a professional, hobbyist, craftsperson OR especially manually dextrous. I do like jewelry.
AnswerHi Clare,
I have to adjust omega backs regularly! When the earring is a post, with the omega back going over that when worn, adjustment is not very difficult. Generally this means taking a nice jeweler's smooth nosed plier and bending the base of the omegas downward. This makes more room between the ear and the back, with the post still there to hold the earring on the ear.
Now, with no post and only the omega back, each must be adjusted the same way but only a tiny bit at a time. The earring must be firm enough to hold the earlobe but not so tight as to be uncomfortable.
A NOTE OF WARNING. Omega backs are great. The problems come when these are on hollow and lightweight earrings. Another problem arises if the backs are not very well soldered(brazed) to the earring body. Bending will sometimes cause the base part of the omega to break off; with hollow and thin earrings, the earring can actually tear out a piece of gold, leaving a very difficult repair job.
I would try this only if familiar with doing it! There is a tactile "education" or "touch" needed to feel how the metal is working when bent.
MY ADVICE. Let a jeweler do it! They can bend a little, let you try the earrings for fit, bend again if needed till the comfortable fit is achieved.
If you break the earrings...well, then you will pay to have repairs made. If the jeweler does it, they should let you know up front who is responsible if there is breakage. A competent jeweler should be able to tell you up front if there is an obvious risk in loosening the earring backs.
I do hope this helps. If you need more please do get back with a "follow-up" or ask again for a clean page.
God Bless. Thomas. 9/29/03
