Jewelry Repair - How to Straighten a Bent Ring

Welcome to JTV's Jewelry Care and Repair Series! Our host, John Brooks is a dedicated jeweler at JTV, and his helpful video will guide you in jewelry repair. In today's lesson, we'll dive into the art of straightening a bent ring. Whether it's a family heirloom or a beloved piece, fear not – with the right technique and tools, your bent ring can be restored to its former glory.

As we start, take a moment to examine the sorry state of our bent ring in the video. Wearing it on your finger would be a near-impossible feat. But fear not; the solution lies in the trusty jeweler's mandrel.

You’ll only need a few items for this fix

• Mandrel or narrow pipe
• Small hammer
• A little physical effort
   

A jeweler's mandrel is a tapered, cylindrical rod typically made of steel, and it is a must-have tool for any jewelry enthusiast or professional. When it comes to jewelry repair, the mandrel is used to shape, form and resize rings and other circular objects; they also come in various sizes and are often marked with ring size measurements for making accurate adjustments. While mandrels might not be readily available in every store, you can easily find one online or at JTV. This versatile tool is instrumental in various jewelry repairs and adjustments.

Prepare the Mandrel:

1. Place the jeweler's mandrel in a stable position. Ensure it's secure and won't move during the repair process.
2. Position the Ring: Carefully slide the bent ring onto the mandrel. Apply gentle pressure with your fingers to help the process.
3. Gradual Adjustment: Slowly move the ring up the mandrel, allowing the tool to work its magic. You'll feel the metal rounding itself out as you progress.
4. Final Adjustments: Push the ring up until it won't move any further. For a more precise fix, tap the ring gently with a hammer to help shape the metal; exercise caution, especially around hollow areas on the shoulder of the ring.
5. Check for Imperfections: After the initial adjustments, inspect the ring for any remaining deformities. Ensure the ring’s shoulder and shank are free from dents or damage.
6. Admire the Transformation: Once satisfied with the adjustments, remove the ring from the mandrel. Marvel at the transformation – your once-bent ring now looks almost brand new!

When working on a bent ring, exercise caution, especially if it features hollow sections. A careless hammer strike could irreversibly damage the ring. Take your time and be mindful of the details of the piece you're working on.

And there you have it – a quick and effective guide on straightening a bent ring. With a jeweler's mandrel, a keen eye and a gentle touch, you can breathe new life into your favorite jewelry pieces.

Remember, if you found this tutorial helpful, explore more of JTV's Jewelry Care and Repair Series on our YouTube channel. We cover a range of topics to help you keep your jewelry in tip-top condition. To learn how to properly clean your jewelry without damaging it, check out our jewelry cleaning guide.