Jewelry repair has come a long way from the days when the only option was a traditional torch. While torches are still widely used, the introduction of laser welding has transformed the way jewelers can restore and repair precious pieces. At Jones Jewelry & Appraisals, we choose lasers over torches because they allow us to deliver stronger, more precise, and safer repairs for our clients’ treasures.
Precision Without Heat Damage
One of the biggest advantages of a laser is precision. A torch produces heat that spreads widely across the metal, which can weaken delicate areas, loosen gemstones, or damage heat-sensitive materials like emeralds, opals, and pearls. A laser, by contrast, focuses its energy on a tiny spot — repairing the exact area needed without affecting the rest of the piece. This means your jewelry stays safer, cleaner, and stronger.
Cleaner, Stronger Results
Because a laser works in such a controlled way, the joins it produces are cleaner and often stronger than those made with a torch. The process requires less solder, which means fewer added materials and a more seamless repair. For antique or vintage jewelry, this is especially important because it helps preserve the integrity of the original craftsmanship while restoring function and beauty.
Greater Possibilities in Repair
Lasers also open up repair options that torches simply can’t handle. For example, jewelers can fix pieces that contain sensitive gemstones without removing them, weld in areas that are nearly impossible to reach with a flame, and make micro-adjustments on intricate designs. This makes laser welding a game-changer for custom work, antique restorations, and everyday repairs alike.
An Elevated Standard of Care
When you bring your jewelry to Jones Jewelry & Appraisals, you can trust that we use the best technology available to protect and restore your pieces. A torch may be the traditional tool, but a laser offers the elevated level of care our clients deserve. It’s just one of the ways we ensure every repair lives up to our promise of quality, precision, and excellence.
This picture shows a wedding band being soldered using a laser and gold wire. Notice the ring can be held by the jeweler's hands because it doesn't heat the entire ring. Just the spot being worked on.
In this picture we can see a standard jeweler's torch heating a ring to do a similar repair as the one above. You can see the entire piece experiences heat. You can also see a whitish substance on the ring. This is simply a coating to protect the gold from discoloring during the heating process.
This blog post is not to discredit the use of a torch for repairs, but rather to raise awareness on the difference between the two methods. Both methods are utilized by Jones Jewelry and we determine which to use on a case by case basis.