Jewelry Fix-Ups: How to Clean, Repair and Restore Your Jewelry - Softcover

I don't think there is anything currently in print like this forthcoming book. I have a personal interest in jewelry and have a stash of things from grandma, flea markets, and so forth, and a few pieces of decent jewelry. There are some identification/valuation titles, as well as lots of books of jewelry-making, available, but nothing which covers cleaning, protecting, light repair, and more complicated projects. I've already put it in my to-be-ordered cart for my library as I think it will fill a niche that isn't being filled.

I don't have any jewelry that needs fixing, but if I did, this would be the book I would turn to. As it is, I learned quite a bit about various jewelry materials (metals, beads, pearls, stones, glass, plastics, etc.) as well as how to properly clean and care for each. The simple repairs and cleaning techniques are descriptive and detailed, and the author does indicate when a job should be turned over to a professional. This book would probably be most useful for someone who wants to clean or repair costume jewelry or make minor repairs on heirlooms.

When you're a jewelry maker, vintage fashion jewelry has a way of finding you. It catches your eye at an estate sale or is bestowed on you by friends and family. And more often than not, it's a little worse for wear. Jewelry Fix-Ups helps you identify and correct common faults found in vintage jewelry, such as restoring metal pieces to their original finish, tightening a loose clip-on earring, replacing damaged findings, and cleaning strands of beads. The final chapter covers more advanced repair work, like soldering jump rings, links, or prongs, but these should only be undertaken by a practiced hand. When in doubt, seek a professional jeweler.

Jewelry Fix-ups by David McLoughlin is a fantastic introduction and reference for the beginner and professional jewelry worker. In addition to writing reviews I also design handmade jewelry and own over 20+ jewelry design reference books, but none on the subject of fixing and repair. The book gives an excellent account of the history of jewelry design that includes detailed sections showcasing 18th, 19th, and 20th century styles, Art Deco, Arts and Craft as well as Retro styles. It even has some eclectic examples of Modern Pop, Globetrotters and Disco Glitz. Mr. McLoughlin makes a point in providing the beginner and pro a basic understanding of the different styles and designs components of the major classes of jewelry; necklace, pins, bracelets and rings. Continuing on the theme of basic jewelry benchworking the book provides an extensive list and detailed description of the various jewelers' tools of the trade. The second portion of the book offers a number of great step by step guides on handling the repair and cleaning of jewelry components; pins, chains, clasp and earrings. In addition there are some handy identification charts of the different claps, earrings and pin finding, that are a must have reference for any jewelry designer. The book really reads like a jeweler's handbook with its inclusion of sections focusing on beads, pearls, precious stones, semi-precious rhinestones and glass. Overall the Jewelry Fix-ups is must have addition to a jewelry designer's reference bookshelf; especially the beginner jewelry designer. I enjoyed this book and will be adding it to my shelf of references.

I've always loved picking up jewelry at yard sales and antique stores. The downside is it's not always in the best condition. Which is why I nabbed this book to review. I also figured I could use some of the information in making jewelry which is a hobby I enjoy. I was right on all account. Not only does this book inform you on how to fix broken jewelry it shows you how to clean the pieces. It breaks down the different materials and gems. The book shows the different findings, jewelry pieces, and how to fix each or replace if necessary. It also gives all the tools you'll need to do repairs or make what you need. With easy instructions and lots of great information this would be a wonderful book for any one who enjoys playing with jewelry.

Learn how to clean, repair and revive old jewelry pieces so you can wear them or resell them.