DIY Beauty Treatments and Fashion Fixes

Repair a Broken Necklace or Bracelet Clasp

Time: 5 minutes.

What you need: A magnifier or reading glasses, two pairs of flat-nose pliers ($5.50 each), a new clasp ($2.50), and jump rings if the old ones are broken ($3.50 each for silver-plated; all available at firemountaingems.com).

How-to: This is so quick, you’ll be sorting through your jewelry box for other pieces to repair. Work with the magnifier or reading glasses in a space with ample light.
Step 1. Open the two jump rings, which link each side of the clasp to the string or chain. Each of these rings has a slit. With a pair of pliers in each hand, gently grip one of the rings on both sides of the slit, using a light touch. Push one hand away from you while pulling the other hand toward you until the opening is large enough for the clasp to slip out. (Don’t pull the ring out to the sides or you’ll misshape it.)
Step 2. Remove the old clasp and rings if they’re damaged. Slip the new rings and clasp onto the necklace or bracelet and close them gently with the pliers. You’re done.

A pro charges: $30
DIY cost: $11 for pliers, $2.50 to $9.50 for supplies