QuestionHello. I purchased a vintage necklace/earring set that is an antique-looking silver with "stones" inset into antique silver "frames" along the chain and on the drop. These "stones" are actually a continuation of the silver frames, but has been painted with some sort of paint. When you look at the "stones" from the side, it appears to be a greenish color and as it progresses towards the top of the "stone" it becomes a dark bluish. From the top view of the "stones" they appear to be blue (which is the color I was looking for when I purchased this piece). I'm thinking the finish is some sort of irridescent paint, since you can see other colors in it? My question is this: on one of the "stones" there is a small area where the paint has worn. I would like to refresh this old piece. What can you recommend? Thanks in advance!
AnswerHello Peggie,
Sounds like you bought a piece with stones that have a vapour deposited coating- very popularized in the costume jewelry industry now and a trend I don't expect to last because as you say , it wears off with the slightest abrasions, cosmetics, and water containing chlorine- as in swimming pools, jacuzzis etc.
The bad news is there is no way to restore the coating. It is a mineral based ion that is bonded to the stones - be they glass, white sapphires, or what have you..the equipment is quite expensive and not many small jeweler's studios have it. It is virtually impossible to contract out the refinishing of a single piece and as such I'm afraid there is no way to repair your piece. I would however, if recently purchased, return it to the retailer or place of purchase and either request a refund, replacement or exchange. there should be no problem as the coating is a micron's depth and the retailer should be familiar enough with the product to realize that even with daily wear it can rub off and rapidly at that !
I am sorry to say that you are the victim of a not quite perfected or poorly fabricated,or processed piece of work using the vapour deposition process-( light can even effect it)-and the coating will just continue to come off . As such seeking a refund would be my course of action..though if you love it, and can live with a piece that will continue to change from what you thought you were buying, then keep it and see what it turns into..you have a year if bought with a credit card, and depending on the retailer's policies perhaps less time if purchased with cash- so get out your receipt and be a good consumer and don't allow a poorly made product to hold you ransom! get what you paid for, or get your money back.
Best regards, Ari
