If you’ve broken your favorite necklace, don’t panic, you’ve come to the right place. Your first impulse may be to buy a new one entirely—but—if you're aiming for the more sustainable option, try repairing your broken necklace first. The good news is that this can often be done at home with basic tools. Whether it's a broken chain, broken clasp, damaged pendant, or broken link, you don't always need a professional jeweler.
Read on to learn how to fix a broken necklace at home and prevent future breakage.
Common Causes of Necklace Breakage
Before diving into repairs, it's helpful to understand why a necklace might break. Common causes include:
-
Everyday wear and tear
-
Snagging on clothing
-
Improper storage
-
Exposure to harsh chemicals
Understanding these causes can help you prevent further damage and avoid unnecessary (and potentially expensive) visits to a jeweler.
Some of the most common repair requests we see include:
Broken chain links: Chain links can break due to strain, corrosion, or weak construction. For instance, a heavy pendant may stress a delicate chain. Softer materials, like 18k gold, are also more prone to breaking.
Clasp malfunction: Clasps can fail over time due to wear, dirt buildup, or exposure to moisture, causing them to lose elasticity. A clasp that’s too small for a chain may detach under stress.
Damaged pendants or charms: Pendants can break from impact, excessive force, or exposure to environmental factors like moisture and heat. Semi-precious stones, like opal and pearl, are more vulnerable to cracking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Broken Necklace
With the right tools, many of these common repairs can be done at home:
Repairing a Broken Necklace Chain
-
Use jewelry pliers to open the damaged link.
-
Align the ends and securely close the link.
-
If the link is missing, replace it with a new one and attach it to the chain.
Fixing or Replacing a Clasp
-
Inspect the clasp for damage. If repairable, realign or bend it back into shape using needle nose pliers.
-
If it's beyond repair, remove it with pliers and replace it with a new clasp of similar size and style.
Attaching Loose Pendants or Charms
-
Slide a jump ring through the pendant’s bail and onto the chain.
-
Use jewelry or needle nose pliers to securely close the jump ring.
Though many of these kinds of repairs can be DIY, some are best left to the professionals—especially if your necklace features delicate precious materials, or if the damage is extensive. A master jeweler’s expertise and specialized tools will ensure the best results for valuable or sentimental pieces—when in doubt, take it to the pros.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Proper care and maintenance can prevent common issues like broken chains and worn-out clasps. Make sure you’re also storing your pieces in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, and using soft pouches or boxes with compartments to prevent tangling and scratching. Here are some maintenance tips you should be following on a regular basis:
-
Clean regularly: Gently clean necklaces after each use. Follow care instructions for deeper cleaning.
-
Avoid harsh chemicals: Keep jewelry away from perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products.
-
Check clasps and links: Inspect your necklace regularly and repair any loose parts before they break.
-
Be gentle: Avoid pulling or putting stress on delicate silver and gold chains.
-
Remove before bed or exercise: This prevents unnecessary wear and tear.
Discover Necklace Repair Services and Customization
If your necklace or bracelet needs repair, our expert artisans will restore its beauty—providing comprehensive services, like fixing clasps and customizing elements back to their original state.
At John Hardy, we create handcrafted necklaces and bracelets made from ethically sourced materials designed for longevity and wear-everyday durability.
Discover or latest arrivals for him and for her.