The cost to re-tip or repair claws on a ring typically ranges from £25 to £80 per claw, depending on the number of claws requiring service and the karat of gold. This essential repair ensures your gemstone remains securely in place, protecting your valuable investment.
Understanding Claw Re-Tipping Costs
Claw re-tipping is a common and crucial jewellery repair where new metal is skillfully added to worn, thinned, or damaged claws. This process strengthens them and restores their ability to hold a gemstone securely within its setting. It's a preventative maintenance service that helps extend the lifespan of your ring and significantly reduces the risk of losing precious stones due to weakened supports. Unlike a full claw replacement, re-tipping is performed when the existing claw structure is largely intact but requires reinforcement at the tip where it grips the stone.
Typical Pricing for Claw Re-Tipping
Prices for claw re-tipping are generally influenced by the type of gold your ring is made from and the total number of claws needing attention. Here's an estimated cost breakdown:
| Number of Claws Being Re-Tipped | Cost Per Claw (9ct Gold) | Cost Per Claw (18ct Gold) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Claw | £60 | £80 |
| Up to 4 Claws (per claw) | £40 | £45 |
| 5 - 8 Claws (per claw) | £35 | £40 |
| 9 - 12 Claws (per claw) | £25 | £30 |
Please note: For multiple claws, the listed price represents the cost per individual claw within that specific quantity range. For example, if you need 3 claws re-tipped on a 9ct gold ring, the total cost would be 3 x £40 = £120.
Several key factors can influence the final repair cost:
- Metal Type: Repairs on 18ct gold typically cost more than those on 9ct gold due to the material's higher value and the specific techniques involved in working with it. Prices can also vary for other metals like platinum or white gold, which might require additional processes like rhodium plating.
- Number of Claws: While the overall price increases with more claws needing repair, the "per claw" cost often becomes more economical for larger jobs, reflecting an efficiency of scale for the jeweller.
- Complexity of Repair: Should the claws be severely damaged, or if the ring features a particularly intricate setting, the repair may demand more time and specialized craftsmanship, potentially influencing the total cost.
Why Claw Maintenance is Crucial
Ring claws are the small, yet essential, metal prongs that hold your gemstones in place. Over time, daily wear, accidental knocks, and chemical exposure can cause these claws to wear down, thin, or even bend and break. This degradation significantly increases the risk of your precious gemstone becoming loose or falling out entirely. Regular professional inspection and timely re-tipping are vital preventative measures that protect your investment.
Keep an eye out for these common signs that your ring claws might need immediate attention:
- The gemstone appears loose or feels wobbly when gently touched.
- You can see visible thinning, flattening, or sharp edges on the claw tips.
- The claws frequently catch on clothing, hair, or other materials.
- The surface of the claw tips, where they meet the stone, looks dull, scratched, or worn away.
Getting an Exact Quote
To receive an accurate assessment and a precise quote for your specific ring, it is always best to consult a qualified and reputable jeweller. They can thoroughly examine the condition of your ring's claws, identify the exact metal type, and provide a detailed estimate for the necessary repair work.
