The shank is the round part of the ring that encircles your finger. When the bottom of your ring has worn thin or broken it is necessary to “re-shank” the ring by removing the bottom half and replacing it with a new thicker piece. This ensures longer lasting wear for years to come.

Rhodium electroplating is used, especially on jewelry to provide a surface that will resist scratches and tarnish, and give a white, reflective appearance. Metals known as white are actually more of a gray color, so white gold has a yellowish cast. Since the wearer of white gold is looking for a bright white look, a very thin layer of rhodium electroplating is used to make that jewelry shine. White gold plated with rhodium will also keep its good looks longer - rhodium will not tarnish or discolor, and since it is a harder substance, it is much less likely to get scratched.

Prongs (the thin metal posts which secure gemstones in jewelry) can wear over time. A prong that is partially worn can be reinforced. This is known as re-tipping. A prong that is damaged or missing requires fabrication of an entire new prong, a more involved process.

Gold or platinum jewelry that is simply broken can often be repaired by soldering. This begins with a thorough cleaning of the item, preparation of the break, and addition of molten metal.

Pearl strands that have stretched or broken can be restrung by knotting a white silk or synthetic thread between each pearl.