Snags, Tangles and Other Mishaps
Why they happen and what to do next
A ring catching your sweater. A necklace tied in a tiny knot. A diamond that seems to have lost its sparkle. Even our favorite jewelry has its moments! Here’s how to handle a few common mishaps.
Your ring keeps snagging your sweater
Sometimes an open knit simply catches on the shape of a setting. But if a normally smooth ring suddenly starts snagging, a prong—the little metal tip holding your stone—may be bent, lifted or worn.
The quick fix: Stop pulling and gently ease the fabric off the setting. If the snagging is new or keeps happening, put the ring away and bring it in for an inspection. Don’t try bending the prong yourself; it may need adjusting or rebuilding to keep your stone secure.
Your necklace has become a knot
Fine chains can twist into themselves when tossed into a bag or stored in a pile. Pulling the ends usually tightens the knot.
The quick fix: Unclasp the necklace and lay it on a flat, well lit surface. Gently loosen the knot with your fingertips, working from the outside inward. If it won’t budge, let us help before a frustrating tangle becomes a broken chain. Store necklaces separately with their clasps closed.
Your clasp isn’t cooperating
A clasp that sticks, stays open or no longer clicks securely may have a worn spring or bent component.
The quick fix: Take the piece off and store it safely until the clasp can be checked. Avoid squeezing it with household pliers. A clasp repair or replacement can help keep your necklace or bracelet where it belongs—on you!
Your diamond looks a little sleepy
Hand lotion, soap and everyday oils can leave a film on a diamond, especially underneath the stone, dulling its sparkle.
The quick fix: For diamond jewelry with a secure setting, a little warm water, mild dish soap and a gentle clean with a soft toothbrush can help. Rinse in a bowl, away from an open drain. Have loose or damaged settings checked first, and ask us before using this method on other gemstones.
Your earring back has a disappearing act
If an earring back slides off too easily, the back may be worn or the post may be bent. Either way, your favorite stud could be planning an escape.
The quick fix: Put the earrings away until you have properly fitting backs. Bring them in so we can check both the backs and posts—replacement backs need to fit securely.
Your pearls are growing apart
Noticing new gaps between your pearls or fuzzy, fraying thread? The string holding your strand together may be stretched or worn. This is one relationship that benefits from a little maintenance!
The quick fix: Lay the strand flat and pause wearing it until it can be evaluated for restringing. Don’t pull on the strand or trim loose fibers; those little warning signs deserve attention before the thread breaks.
Your silver has gone to the dark side
That dark film on sterling silver is usually tarnish, a surface reaction that happens over time. It doesn’t mean your jewelry is ruined or that it isn’t real silver.
The quick fix: For plain, unplated sterling silver, gently use a polishing cloth made for silver. If the piece has pearls, delicate gemstones, plating or intentionally darkened details, ask us first. Store clean, dry silver in an anti tarnish pouch to help keep its shine.
A little attention now can save a favorite piece later. Bring your jewelry questions and your occasional jewelry mishaps to Water Street Jewelers. We can help!
