Modern jewellery is often set with extremely small diamonds held by very fine claws. Over time, and through normal wear and tear, these claws may wear down or shift, allowing a diamond to loosen or fall out — particularly if the jewellery has been subjected to a hard knock.
If jewellery is worn during activities such as gardening, mountaineering, sport, gym exercise, or even washing steel cutlery, the metal will scratch, wear away, and the risk of gemstone loss increases significantly.
A reputable jeweller will stand behind their workmanship and products within reasonable limits. A jeweller’s reputation is worth far more than any single sale.
If a diamond is lost within a few weeks of purchase
A diamond lost shortly after purchase may be due to one of the following:
- Poor workmanship. In this case, the jeweller should take responsibility and replace the diamond.
- Resizing of the ring. If a ring was made smaller and the claws opened during the process, the jeweller should have ensured the diamond was secure and should take responsibility.
- Accidental damage. If the jewellery was damaged through an accident, the claim normally falls under the client’s insurance. An expert can usually determine whether claws have shifted or the ring has bent due to impact.
- Diamond breakage. A severe blow may damage a diamond with a very thin girdle, or cause an existing fracture in a lower-clarity diamond to extend, allowing the diamond to fall out.
If a diamond is lost years after purchase
If a diamond is lost many years after purchase, no jeweller can reasonably be held responsible. This is because:
- Fine jewellery is made from relatively soft precious metals. Extensive wear or rough handling will gradually wear down claws, increasing the risk of stone loss.
- Insurance policies often specify that jewellery must be properly maintained. Regular cleaning, inspection, and revaluation are the responsibility of the owner. Continuing to wear damaged jewellery without repair increases the risk of loss.
- In some cases, insurers may replace the diamond as a goodwill gesture. Likewise, a reputable jeweller may offer to replace the diamond at wholesale cost to minimise the client’s financial loss.
Regular professional inspection and maintenance are essential to protect valuable jewellery. We recommend periodic checks by a qualified jeweller to ensure claws, settings, and mountings remain secure.
Learn more about our professional maintenance and inspection offerings here:
Jewellery Services at Prins & Prins
Information supplied by Prins & Prins Diamonds
Tel: 021 422 1090