Pearl Restringing
Whether inherited from a beloved grandmother, or given as a symbol of love, a strand of pearls carries not just aesthetic value but also sentimental significance. However, over time, the thread holding these precious gems together can weaken. This is where the pearl restringing service we offer at Brufords comes into play.
Why Pearl Restringing is Important
There are many reasons as to why you should have pearls restrung, including safety and security, aesthetic appeal, and the preservation of pearl quality:
Safety and Security: The silk or nylon thread that typically holds pearls can wear out due to friction, exposure to body oils, and environmental factors. Regular restringing ensures that your pearls are securely held together, preventing the heartbreak of a broke strand and lost pearls.
Maintains Aesthetic Appeal: A well-restrung necklace likes smoothly and evenly around the neck. Over time, the thread can stretch, causing gaps between the pearls, which can detract from their beauty. Restringing restores the necklace to its original, elegant drape.
Preservation of Pearl Quality: Pearls are organic gems which can be damaged if they rub against each other, or if the thread weakens and breaks. Regular restringing helps to protect the pearls from unnecessary wear and tear.
The Restringing Process
Pearl restringing is an essential process in order to maintain the integrity and allure of the piece of jewellery.
Before work commences, our restringer assesses the condition of the pearls and existing thread, checking for any damage and making recommendations for further repairs if needed. Following this, the pearl are gently cleaned to remove any oils or residue that have accumulated, to ensure that the pearls are in the best possible condition prior to being restrung.
Our restringers then choose the thread to be used, typically high-quality silk or nylon. Silk is the traditional choice, due to its softness and strength, whilst nylon is preferred for its durability and resistance to stretching.
The pearls are carefully strung onto the new thread, with knots tied between each one, paying close attention to the piece’s length and symmetry, ensuring that it meets the wearer’s preferences. This “knotting” technique not only enhances the appearance of the necklace or bracelet, but also prevents the pearls from rubbing against each other, and also minimises loss if the thread breaks. Knotting requires skill and precision, to ensure each knot is uniform and securely tied.
Once all the pearls have been restrung, the clasp is securely attached. On completion, the restringer then inspects the finished piece to ensure that the clasp functions correctly, and the strand has a smooth, even drape.
When to Restring Your Pearls
The frequency of pearl restringing depends on how often they are worn. For pieces worn regularly, we recommend an annual check and restring. For items worn occasionally, a restring every 2-3 years may suffice. However, if you notice any gaps between the pearls, or signs of fraying thread, it’s time to visit us for a restring.
Choose Brufords for Your Pearl Restringing
Given the precision required during the process, it’s essential to choose a reputable jeweller or professional restringer with experience in handling pearls.
At Brufords, our pearl restringing service is carried out by experienced restringers, whom we have worked with for several years. Prices start at £36.00 and the service takes approximately 1 week.
For more information, visit us in-store, contact us by email to aftersales@brufords.com or by telephone on 01323 725452
