When gold jewelry is severely deformed, the shaping techniques should be carefully selected based on the type of jewelry and the degree of deformation to avoid irreversible damage caused by self-operation. Here are some feasible plastic surgery techniques and precautions:
Self-repair for minor deformation
Cylindrical rolling method: Find a cylindrical object about the same size as the inner diameter of the jewelry, such as a wooden stick or a thermos cup. Place the jewelry on a flat glass plate and press it slightly to roll it a few times. Use the shape of the cylinder to restore the jewelry to its original state. This method is applicable to slightly deformed ring-shaped jewelry, such as rings and bracelets.
Tapping correction method: Use nose pliers or a small hammer to gently tap the deformed area to gradually restore it to its original state. When tapping, be gentle to avoid damaging the jewelry. This method requires certain skills and experience; otherwise, it may cause dents or scratches on the surface of the jewelry.
Professional treatment for severe deformation
If the jewelry is severely deformed and cannot be repaired by itself, it is recommended to send it to a professional jewelry store for repair. Jewelry stores have professional tools and technicians who can repair or recreate jewelry according to the degree of deformation. For solid rings, it might still be possible to restore their original shape. However, for hollow rings or bracelets with complex structures, the repair process is rather difficult. Sometimes, it may only be possible to carry out aging treatment or melt and recast them.
If the jewelry is severely deformed to the extent that it cannot be restored to its original state, it can be considered to be melted off and remade. Although this method will change the original style of the jewelry, you can obtain a brand new piece of gold jewelry. When choosing to melt and recast, it is recommended to select a reputable jewelry store or factory for processing.
Special Deformation DIY Restoration (Caution Required)
Low-temperature softening and shaping: For some gold jewelry, a medium-speed hot air from a hair dryer can be used to evenly heat the curved areas, making the gold softer and easier to shape. However, when heating, a certain distance should be maintained to avoid local overheating that could cause the gold to melt or change color. After shaping, it can be polished with an agate knife.
Hot melt adhesive repair method (high risk) : For sunken jewelry, you can try to repair it with hot melt adhesive. Heat the hot melt adhesive until it melts and then apply it to the concave area. After it cools down, gently pull it out and the concave area may recover. However, this method carries a relatively high risk. Improper operation may lead to damage to the jewelry or burns. People with poor hand skills should be cautious when attempting it.
Precautions
Avoid self-repairing complex styles: For complex-structured jewelry such as fancy rings and inlaid rings, it is best not to adjust them by yourself to prevent damage to the inlaid gemstones or alteration of the original design of the jewelry.
Daily maintenance and prevention
Handle with care: Be cautious when wearing and taking off jewelry to avoid pulling or squeezing it.
It is best to remove jewelry when doing exercise or physical labor to avoid deformation due to impact.
Keep away from chemicals: Chemicals such as perfumes and cosmetics may corrode gold jewelry, so they should be kept away from the jewelry.
Regular maintenance: Regularly visiting a jewelry store for maintenance and care of your jewelry can extend its service life.