Jewelry Repair Glossary
Engraving
To etch or cut a message or image onto metal by machine, laser or hand.
For more information on engraving please visit: Engraving
Gallery
The part underneath the setting of the ring
Invisible Setting
A centuries old, originally French technique, invisible set gemstone jewelry (aka the Invisible Setting) involves the process of setting gemstones side-by-side, which hides the metal work underneath, which can give the appearance of a larger stone.
For more information on invisible setting jewelry please visit: Invisible Setting Ring Repairs
Master Jeweler
A master jeweler refers to a very experienced bench jeweler, usually with over 10 years of experience.
Prong
Refers to the use of metal projections or tines, that mount or secure a gemstone to a piece of jewelry; some resemble claw-like points.
For more information on prong repairs please visit: Prong Repair
Restringing
A service for pearls and beads. Means to disassemble and recreate the necklace strand or bracelet with a new piece of wire, nylon or silk thread. Restringing with knots between the pearls or beads is usually done on better or more expensive items.
Rhodium
A metal more expensive than gold and is part of the platinum family. Rhodium is a bright white hard metal that is the final step in creating white gold jewelry and it can only be applied through electroplating.
Shank
The part of the ring that wraps around the finger. Usually plain metal but not always.
Sizing
When changing the size of a ring, it is properly referred to as “Ring Sizing.” However, “Ring Resizing” can also be used.
For more information on sizing services, please visit: Ring Sizing
Solder
(Because it is pronounced “sä-dər” it is often mispelled as “sodder.”)
This is the process of melting or welding metal together. This is usually used to mend breaks in rings or chains.
Stonesetting
The act of placing gemstones and securing them into a piece of jewelry.
Watch Repair Glossary
Band
Allows a watch to be attached to the wrist. Falls into two categories, straps or bracelets
StrapThe leather, plastic or nylon strap that allows a watch to be attached to the wrist.
BraceletWorn on the wrist and usually made of metal that interlocks together with hinges, links, mesh or screws.
For more information on watch band replacements, please visit: Watch Band Replacements & Repairs
Clean and Overhaul
The process of cleaning, repairing, adjusting, replacing, and putting back together the parts of a watch movement.
For more information on watch movements issues, please visit: Watch Movement 101
Crystal
The glass, plastic or mineral dome or surface that covers and protects the face of the watch. Comes in many shapes and materials.
For more information on watch crystal repairs, please visit: Watch Crystal Replacements
Movement
The mechanical parts that make the watch work. Can come in different types: mechanical (wind up and automatic), quartz (battery powered), or digital.
For more information on watch movements, please visit: Types of Movements
Stem & Crown
The part of the watch that a person would move to change time or date. The Crown is the part that you can touch, whereas the stem is the part that connects to the inner movement.