How to repair a broken collar?

Disaster! Your favorite chain has just broken and is now unusable. But don't panic! If it's made up of simple links (Trace link, Jaseron link, Rombo link, rectangle link, Cheval link...), all is not lost!
There are several ways to repair it yourself.
Sometimes all it takes is a simple manipulation with your pliers, and you're done!
On the other hand, if the damage is too extensive, you'll have to resort to a major overhaul. Give your chain a second life by transforming it into a pretty homemade necklace!

Remove the broken link(s)

The most common problem encountered on a chain is broken rings. In the case of chain with open rings, the repair is straightforward.
Remove the damaged ring(s). Then, using your flat-nose pliers, close the chain by connecting the links together.
Be careful not to apply too much pressure, however, to maintain the shape of the link you're handling.
If you're just starting to create costume jewelry, you'll find some useful tips and tricks in our toolbox, such as how to open an open ring.

Soldering rings

If, on the other hand, you're dealing with a chain with single closed links, you can repair the chain by soldering a ring. However, this technique requires a certain level of skill and know-how, and is not applicable to all cases. Depending on the material of your chain, it may or may not be possible to carry out this repair.
If you need to repair a 925 Sterling Silver chain, we advise you to watch these videos where we explain how to use silver solder and how to cut small solder flakes.

If it's a fine chain, the technique is slightly different. Discover tips and tricks on how to repair the links of a small chain using the brazing technique in our video.

Replace the clasp

If your clasp is broken or a little too weak to close your necklace, it's time to change it or risk your chain slipping off your neck and losing your jewel.
To do this, you need to open the connecting rings on either side of the clasp. Remove the clasp and simply replace it with a new one. Then simply close the rings again. Your chain is as good as new!

Add a spacer with beads

If your chain has closed links, it's not hopeless. Connect a spacer made of beads to create a new piece of DIY jewelry.
Use a round-headed nail onto which you've slipped a few gemstone beads or faceted pearls. Form a single or pigtailloop, then hang your spacer on your chain with open rings.
Alternatively, you can use wired thread onto which you've strung a few freshwater pearls or Heishi rondelles. To connect it to your chain, think of Crimp beads.

Add chains or cords

Extend your necklace by creating a long necklace using ribbon, suede, cord... For this, you'll need lace ends or crimp ends, which you connect to your chain with simple open rings.

Add beads

Spice up your chain or give it a different look by adding a bead between the links. By varying the material, size and shape of your beads, you can create the look you love!