How We Restring Beaded Necklaces, Bracelets, and Pearl Strands
At Seattle Jewelry Repair, we understand that your beaded jewelry isn’t just an accessory—it’s a cherished part of your story. Whether it’s a strand of pearls passed down through generations or a beaded bracelet you wear daily, restringing ensures that your treasured pieces remain beautiful, wearable, and secure. Here’s an inside look at how we bring these pieces back to life.
The Art of Restringing
Restringing is a meticulous process that blends technical skill with artistry. Every bead, knot, and clasp plays a role in creating a durable and elegant result. Our method ensures that your jewelry is as beautiful and wearable as it was the day it was made—or even better.
1. Assessing the Condition
Before we begin, we examine the piece to identify its unique needs:
Thread integrity: Is the current stringing material frayed or stretched?
Beads and spacers: Are they intact, or do they need cleaning or replacing?
Clasp and findings: Are they functional, or would an upgrade improve durability and style?
We discuss these findings with you and offer options to restore or enhance your piece.
2. Choosing the Right Material
The stringing material is key to both durability and flexibility. Depending on the beads and how the jewelry is worn, we select from:
Silk thread: A traditional choice for pearls, providing a luxurious drape.
Nylon-coated wire: Ideal for heavier beads or frequent wear.
Elastic cord: Perfect for stretch bracelets and casual designs.
We always use high-quality materials to ensure longevity and comfort.
3. Cleaning and Polishing
We carefully clean your beads, removing dirt, oils, or tarnish to restore their brilliance. For pearls, we use gentle methods that preserve their delicate nacre.
4. Restringing with Care
We string the beads in their original order—or create a new pattern if desired—paying close attention to balance and symmetry.
For pearl and high-end bead strands, knotting is essential. Each pearl or bead is separated by a small, hand-tied knot to:
Prevent rubbing and wear.
Keep the beads in place if the strand breaks.
Add a graceful fluidity to the piece.
For stretchy or unknotted designs, we use reinforced techniques and jewelry-grade epoxy to secure the ends and prevent breakage over time.
5. Securing the Clasp
Finally, we attach the clasp or findings, ensuring they’re sturdy and match the piece’s design. If needed, we can upgrade clasps to magnetic, toggle, or lobster styles for added security and ease of use.
6. Quality Check and Return
Before your jewelry is returned, we thoroughly inspect every detail for strength, beauty, and functionality. When you receive it, it’s not just repaired—it’s refreshed, ready to be worn and loved once more.
Care Tips for Restrung Jewelry
To keep your newly restrung pieces in excellent condition:
Avoid exposing them to water, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.
Store them flat or hanging to prevent stretching.
Clean them gently with a soft cloth after wear.
Ready to Restring?
Whether it’s pearls, gemstones, or a sentimental strand of beads, Seattle Jewelry Repair is here to preserve your most precious pieces. Bring in your jewelry today, and let us ensure it stays a part of your story for years to come.