A missing stone can leave a piece of jewellery looking incomplete and may also expose or weaken the surrounding setting.

In many cases, a suitable replacement can be sourced and fitted while preserving the original design and character of the piece.

Tom will consider the size, shape, colour, cut and quality of the remaining stones before recommending a replacement. Where an exact match is not possible, he will explain the closest and most sensible alternatives.

Engagement rings

Wedding and eternity rings

Cluster rings

Three-stone rings

Pendants

Earrings

Inherited jewellery

Jewellery with chipped or cracked stones

Jewellery with empty or damaged settings

Stone replacement is not limited to diamonds.

Depending on the design and condition of the piece, Tom can assess replacements for sapphires, rubies, emeralds and other coloured gemstones.

The setting must be inspected before a replacement stone is ordered.

What the service includes

Assessment of the setting

The empty or damaged setting is inspected to determine whether it is still secure enough to hold a replacement stone.

Stone matching

The replacement is selected with consideration for size, shape, colour, cut and visual balance.

Sourcing

Tom sources an appropriate diamond or gemstone based on the agreed requirements and budget.

Setting

The replacement stone is fitted into the existing setting or into a repaired or rebuilt setting where necessary.

Final inspection

The jewellery is checked, cleaned and refinished before collection.

The Process

Step 1: Send photographs

Send clear photographs of the jewellery, including close-ups of the empty setting, damaged stone and any remaining stones.

Step 2: Receive initial advice

Tom will provide an initial view of the likely options and whether the existing setting appears suitable.

Step 3: Arrange an appointment

Bring the jewellery to the Swindon workshop by appointment for accurate measurement and inspection.

Step 4: Review replacement options

Where appropriate, Tom will source one or more suitable stones and explain the differences in appearance and price.

Step 5: Approve the fixed quote

No stone is ordered and no work begins until you have approved the final quote.

Step 6: Fit and finish

The replacement stone is set, the jewellery is checked and the repaired area is refinished.

Stone Replacement Prices

Stone replacement starts from £90, plus the cost of the replacement stone.

The final price depends on:

The type of stone

The size and shape required

The quality and colour match

The condition of the existing setting

Whether the setting needs repairing or rebuilding

The complexity of the setting work

The metal and construction of the jewellery

The minimum workshop charge is £75.

You will receive a fixed quote before any work begins.

Where a piece contains several stones, the replacement should sit naturally alongside the originals.

For diamonds, Tom will consider:

Diameter and depth

Shape and cutting style

Colour

Clarity

Brightness

Age and character of the existing stones

For coloured gemstones, matching can be more subjective. Natural stones often vary in tone, saturation, transparency and internal character.

An exact match is not always possible, particularly in older jewellery, but the aim is to find a replacement that feels visually balanced rather than obviously new or different.

When a Stone Is Chipped Rather Than Missing

A chipped gemstone does not always need replacing immediately, but it should be assessed.

The correct approach depends on:

The position and depth of the damage

Whether the chip affects the stability of the stone

Whether the damage is visible

The type of gemstone

The sentimental or financial value of the original

Whether the stone can be reset or recut safely

In some cases, the existing stone can remain in place. In others, replacement or recutting may provide a more secure long-term result.

Tom will explain the practical options before recommending any work.

The setting matters too

Why Did the Stone Come Out?

Replacing the missing stone is only part of the repair.

A stone may have been lost because:

Claws have worn down

The setting has become distorted

The ring has been knocked

Metal has cracked or thinned

Previous repair work has failed

The stone was not properly secured

Normal wear has gradually weakened the setting

The cause should be addressed before a replacement stone is fitted.

Where the setting is too worn to provide a reliable result, Tom may recommend repair, rebuilding or remodelling rather than simply inserting another stone.

Replacing Stones in Inherited Jewellery

Older jewellery often contains stones with cuts, proportions and colours that differ from modern commercial stones.

The setting may also show significant wear that is not obvious until it is inspected closely.

Tom will aim to preserve the original character of the piece while making sure the finished repair is secure enough to be worn.

Where a newly cut stone would look out of place, an older-cut or less uniform replacement may provide a more convincing result.

A Suitable Match, Not Just the Cheapest Stone

The lowest-cost replacement is not always the best choice.

A poorly matched stone can make the entire piece look unbalanced, while an expensive stone may be unnecessary if it does not suit the age or quality of the jewellery.

Tom will recommend a replacement that fits the piece, the intended use and the agreed budget.

The priority is a secure repair and a stone that belongs visually within the jewellery.

Has Your Jewellery Lost a Stone?

Send clear photographs for an initial assessment, or arrange an appointment with Tom at the Swindon workshop.

You will receive straightforward advice on the setting, replacement options and likely costs before any work begins.