Services
Most services are available in-house, and we are confident that we can meet all of your jewellery requirements.
Select an option from the extensive list to see what we have to offer - from jewellery care and cleaning, to insurance valuations and claims, also engraving and repairs.
Select an option from the extensive list to see what we have to offer - from jewellery care and cleaning, to insurance valuations and claims, also engraving and repairs.
Gemstone & Noble Metal Care
We recommend that you seek professional advice on cleaning all
items of jewellery. We are fully aware that there are many products available
for home use specifically advertised as being "suitable for cleaning jewellery",
but how do you decide what’s suitable for your jewellery?
Rather than
risk your precious items, it’s better to check first.
We are pleased to
assist with any queries relating to cleaning your jewellery items. Our advice is
free, and is available by telephone, e-mail, or by calling in to either
branch
items of jewellery. We are fully aware that there are many products available
for home use specifically advertised as being "suitable for cleaning jewellery",
but how do you decide what’s suitable for your jewellery?
Rather than
risk your precious items, it’s better to check first.
We are pleased to
assist with any queries relating to cleaning your jewellery items. Our advice is
free, and is available by telephone, e-mail, or by calling in to either
branch
Dealing with Insurance Claims
It’s distressing enough to lose a piece of jewellery through either loss, irreparable damage or theft, without making life difficult trying to find a replacement. We are here to assist throughout the replacement process. We are able to work from your verbal descriptions, drawings, photographs or previous valuations* in order to estimate to replace your piece nearest possible to the original. We can do this either by hand making a facsimile copy of the original where we have sufficient detail, or by using available castings to provide the nearest in style and quality - this will of course depend largely on the level of insurance cover you have on your jewellery.
With our vast experience, we are able to make the whole process as painless as possible, and will even deal with your Insurers on your behalf, as appropriate. You may also decide that you do not wish to receive a like for like replacement, and opt instead for a totally different jewellery item. Provided that is acceptable to your Insurers (mostly, it is) then we are happy to assist, either from our stock, or by supplying a newly commissioned piece to your requirements.
* We cannot underestimate the importance of valuations for this purpose; you should ensure your valuations are up-to-date and detailed, with photographs if possible.
With our vast experience, we are able to make the whole process as painless as possible, and will even deal with your Insurers on your behalf, as appropriate. You may also decide that you do not wish to receive a like for like replacement, and opt instead for a totally different jewellery item. Provided that is acceptable to your Insurers (mostly, it is) then we are happy to assist, either from our stock, or by supplying a newly commissioned piece to your requirements.
* We cannot underestimate the importance of valuations for this purpose; you should ensure your valuations are up-to-date and detailed, with photographs if possible.
SELLING Your Surplus Jewellery
Selling your jewellery need not be a nightmare. We are pleased to offer our advice and assistance in selling your surplus jewellery items.
There are many options available to you if you wish to sell, they include:-
Selling to friends/relatives/work colleagues
Selling to people you don’t know – using advertising to attract buyers
Selling to the trade – trawling around looking for the best offer
Selling through the trade – on a commission basis
Selling through auction
Selling through eBay or similar internet auction sites.
All of these options have their benefits and pitfalls, and using our experience, we can assist you with deciding the best method for you as appropriate for the item(s) you have to sell.
One example of how our experience helped a young lady in Cardiff:-
An inherited piece of jewellery was taken to car-boot sale, and didn’t even sell at the asking price of £1.00. The young lady then visited most of the local jewellers, who offered to buy the piece at prices ranging from £20.00 - £100.00. As soon as we saw the piece we recognised it as being,
valuable
old
desirable
We subsequently sold the piece to a collector, on the young lady’s behalf and achieved a price of £4,500.00. Needless to say, our Client was delighted, and in fact, used the money as a deposit on her first home.
Results are not always this spectacular, but we will always give our honest opinion as to the best method of disposal.
Please note that this service is best dealt with in person, since we need to examine the jewellery for quality and condition in order to best advise you.
There are many options available to you if you wish to sell, they include:-
Selling to friends/relatives/work colleagues
Selling to people you don’t know – using advertising to attract buyers
Selling to the trade – trawling around looking for the best offer
Selling through the trade – on a commission basis
Selling through auction
Selling through eBay or similar internet auction sites.
All of these options have their benefits and pitfalls, and using our experience, we can assist you with deciding the best method for you as appropriate for the item(s) you have to sell.
One example of how our experience helped a young lady in Cardiff:-
An inherited piece of jewellery was taken to car-boot sale, and didn’t even sell at the asking price of £1.00. The young lady then visited most of the local jewellers, who offered to buy the piece at prices ranging from £20.00 - £100.00. As soon as we saw the piece we recognised it as being,
valuable
old
desirable
We subsequently sold the piece to a collector, on the young lady’s behalf and achieved a price of £4,500.00. Needless to say, our Client was delighted, and in fact, used the money as a deposit on her first home.
Results are not always this spectacular, but we will always give our honest opinion as to the best method of disposal.
Please note that this service is best dealt with in person, since we need to examine the jewellery for quality and condition in order to best advise you.
Engraving
Jewellery and gifts may be personalised by engraving, by the addition for example of initials, or a date to commemorate your marriage/graduation/anniversary, etc. From basic initials to intricate seal engraving of heraldic or family crests, a quote may be obtained at any time.
All engraving is completed by skilled professionals with vast experience, commissioned by us on your behalf.
No obligation quotations a pleasure.
All engraving is completed by skilled professionals with vast experience, commissioned by us on your behalf.
No obligation quotations a pleasure.
Insuring Your Jewellery
In today’s world it is more important than ever to ensure that your jewellery is insured at an appropriate level. The first stage is to get your jewellery appraised and valued. If you last had this done more than four years ago, or have never had this done, you are probably under-insured.
We would then recommend that you check with your current insurance provider as to the level of cover they would be able to provide, and get a quote for the premiums. If you require, we can also ask our Insurance providers – T.H. March to provide a quote. They are specialised Insurers, covering a large number of Jewellers in the U.K. They will require a recent valuation and details of your security measures (door/window locks, and if you have them, safes/alarms, etc.) in order to provide a quote. Premiums are competitive, and our own experience of their claims handling has been excellent.
Details and proposal forms available on request.
We would then recommend that you check with your current insurance provider as to the level of cover they would be able to provide, and get a quote for the premiums. If you require, we can also ask our Insurance providers – T.H. March to provide a quote. They are specialised Insurers, covering a large number of Jewellers in the U.K. They will require a recent valuation and details of your security measures (door/window locks, and if you have them, safes/alarms, etc.) in order to provide a quote. Premiums are competitive, and our own experience of their claims handling has been excellent.
Details and proposal forms available on request.
Cleaning Your Jewellery
Jewellery that has been purchased from us, or anywhere else, may be brought in at any time for cleaning and checking for damage. This service is Free of Charge. If you require any jewellery to be cleaned and polished, there will be a nominal charge, depending on the time required to complete the work.
When checking for damage, we will advise on any work that is required, giving a no-obligation quote as appropriate.
We would advise that for most jewellery items, at least annual cleaning and checking is recommended. For special occasions of course, you may wish to come in just to have an additional sparkle restored to your jewellery.
We will also be pleased to offer you specific advice for the best methods of cleaning those items of your jewellery that are suitable for you to clean at home.
When checking for damage, we will advise on any work that is required, giving a no-obligation quote as appropriate.
We would advise that for most jewellery items, at least annual cleaning and checking is recommended. For special occasions of course, you may wish to come in just to have an additional sparkle restored to your jewellery.
We will also be pleased to offer you specific advice for the best methods of cleaning those items of your jewellery that are suitable for you to clean at home.
Repair Service
Most jewellery repairs are undertaken in our own on-site workshops in Bridgend and Cardiff. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, our expert goldsmiths are able to tackle any aspect of jewellery repair, from simple chain repairs or ring sizings, to major renovations and rebuilds. Diamonds and gemstones can be matched and replaced or even repaired (repairs to diamonds by expert diamond polishers, repairs to all other gemstones by specialist lapidaries – these are services which we would commission on your behalf).
All repairs are quoted before we commence work. No unpleasant surprises.
All repairs are guaranteed against faulty workmanship.
As well as repairing jewellery made from the noble metals, we are able to repair some items of costume jewellery.
We are able to repair many items on a same day basis wherever time constraints allow. There is currently no extra charge for this service.
All repairs are quoted before we commence work. No unpleasant surprises.
All repairs are guaranteed against faulty workmanship.
As well as repairing jewellery made from the noble metals, we are able to repair some items of costume jewellery.
We are able to repair many items on a same day basis wherever time constraints allow. There is currently no extra charge for this service.
Indications that your jewellery may require repair
Please note that this list is not definitive, it is merely meant as an aide memoire to assist you in deciding if a repair may be required. If in doubt, check it out! We’re pleased to offer advice on any aspect of jewellery repair.
Bangles
Vulnerable areas are – clasp, hinge, figure 8 safety catch, safety chain.
Clasps get worn and damaged. Hinges become worn and twisted. Figure 8’s are subject to wear to both parts. Safety chains stretch and snap, or even just become unhooked if they've not been soldered.
Hollow bangles are easily dented. It is sometimes possible to remove these dents, but it depends on the thickness of the metal, and it is often not cost-effective on a less expensive piece.
Clasps get worn and damaged. Hinges become worn and twisted. Figure 8’s are subject to wear to both parts. Safety chains stretch and snap, or even just become unhooked if they've not been soldered.
Hollow bangles are easily dented. It is sometimes possible to remove these dents, but it depends on the thickness of the metal, and it is often not cost-effective on a less expensive piece.
Bracelets and chains
Vulnerable areas are – clasps, jump rings and safety chains.
Most chain repairs are relatively easy and inexpensive, however it is as well to remember the old saying, "A chain is only as strong as the weakest link." Just because a chain breaks in one place, doesn’t mean the other links aren’t almost as badly worn. Clasps are available in many different styles and sizes, and differing qualities in order to match the piece best possible.
Most chain repairs are relatively easy and inexpensive, however it is as well to remember the old saying, "A chain is only as strong as the weakest link." Just because a chain breaks in one place, doesn’t mean the other links aren’t almost as badly worn. Clasps are available in many different styles and sizes, and differing qualities in order to match the piece best possible.
Earrings
Vulnerable areas are – fittings and stone settings, (particularly pearls).
The most common problem is probably the loss of scrolls (or butterfly backs as they are more commonly known). They become worn and loose with frequent use, but it as a very simple matter to tighten them up. They are easily replaced if lost; we always have a variety of sizes and styles in stock, so we’re sure to have something to fit. Continental and clip fittings are also easily adjusted when they loosen with wear. If you have drop earrings, the connecting rings may become worn, and they can be rebuilt or replaced as required.
Pearl earrings seem particularly vulnerable, as they do not take kindly to being worn swimming or when in the shower or bath. The cement that holds them to their setting degrades, and the pearls may fall off and be lost. A simple method of prevention – take them off before bathing, showering or swimming. (This will also prevent damage from chemicals used in even the mildest detergents used in soap and shampoo, not to mention the damage that may be caused by swimming in chlorinated water.)
The most common problem is probably the loss of scrolls (or butterfly backs as they are more commonly known). They become worn and loose with frequent use, but it as a very simple matter to tighten them up. They are easily replaced if lost; we always have a variety of sizes and styles in stock, so we’re sure to have something to fit. Continental and clip fittings are also easily adjusted when they loosen with wear. If you have drop earrings, the connecting rings may become worn, and they can be rebuilt or replaced as required.
Pearl earrings seem particularly vulnerable, as they do not take kindly to being worn swimming or when in the shower or bath. The cement that holds them to their setting degrades, and the pearls may fall off and be lost. A simple method of prevention – take them off before bathing, showering or swimming. (This will also prevent damage from chemicals used in even the mildest detergents used in soap and shampoo, not to mention the damage that may be caused by swimming in chlorinated water.)
Pendants
Vulnerable areas are – anchor rings and jump rings or bails.
Where the anchor and jump ring or bail rubs together, both are subject to wear. The jump ring or bail is also subject to wear at the point of contact with the chain on which it is worn. It is usually a simple mater to rectify, either by rebuilding, or replacing the worn area.
Where the anchor and jump ring or bail rubs together, both are subject to wear. The jump ring or bail is also subject to wear at the point of contact with the chain on which it is worn. It is usually a simple mater to rectify, either by rebuilding, or replacing the worn area.
Rings
Vulnerable areas are - stone settings, underbezels and shanks – (in other words, the whole thing). Because our hands are almost constantly in use, rings are possibly the most vulnerable item of jewellery.
Claws or rims to stone settings should be checked professionally at least annually, for wear and tear and damage. If settings start to “snag” in your clothing, the claws are possibly lifted up from the stone. They may require a simple adjustment, on the other hand they may require re-tipping. In cases of previous repairs, it may be more practical and desirable to supply a new head to the ring than to rebuild the existing.
Underbezels become worn, often through rubbing against another ring, particularly engagement and eternity rings. This is usually a matter of rebuilding the sides of the underbezels to their original condition.
Shanks become worn through contact with almost everything you touch, hold, or pick up, and also through wear next to another ring. They can be either partially or totally replaced.
Sometimes the wear to a ring, together with possible previous repairs, may make it more practical and desirable to remount, rather than rebuild the existing ring. This would mean that your old stones would be reset into a completely new mount.
Claws or rims to stone settings should be checked professionally at least annually, for wear and tear and damage. If settings start to “snag” in your clothing, the claws are possibly lifted up from the stone. They may require a simple adjustment, on the other hand they may require re-tipping. In cases of previous repairs, it may be more practical and desirable to supply a new head to the ring than to rebuild the existing.
Underbezels become worn, often through rubbing against another ring, particularly engagement and eternity rings. This is usually a matter of rebuilding the sides of the underbezels to their original condition.
Shanks become worn through contact with almost everything you touch, hold, or pick up, and also through wear next to another ring. They can be either partially or totally replaced.
Sometimes the wear to a ring, together with possible previous repairs, may make it more practical and desirable to remount, rather than rebuild the existing ring. This would mean that your old stones would be reset into a completely new mount.
Strung necklaces
Vulnerable areas are – the threading medium and the clasp.
Thread becomes stretched, and or frayed, and the end knots may start to unravel. All of these instances would require a rethread. (see Rethreading) The clasp may become worn, requiring either adjustment or repair.
Thread becomes stretched, and or frayed, and the end knots may start to unravel. All of these instances would require a rethread. (see Rethreading) The clasp may become worn, requiring either adjustment or repair.
Loose Stones For Sale
We have in stock a number of loose diamonds and coloured gemstones which are available for sale. We offer certified and non-certified diamonds and coloured stones to cater for your individual needs. Should you require any stone not currently in stock we have a vast network of world-wide contacts from which we can source most stones within a matter of a few days. Our prices are keen and competitive.
From small stones of lesser quality, to larger, more important gems and diamonds, we have been able to satisfy most Client requirements easily, efficiently, and at a fair price.
We are pleased to advise on any aspect of gemstones and diamonds – colour, quality, price, suitability ...
From small stones of lesser quality, to larger, more important gems and diamonds, we have been able to satisfy most Client requirements easily, efficiently, and at a fair price.
We are pleased to advise on any aspect of gemstones and diamonds – colour, quality, price, suitability ...
Manufacturing Guarantee
We guarantee all items we make or sell against defective or faulty manufacture and workmanship. This is not a fixed term guarantee, we are more confident in our abilities than that. If any item we make or sell is found subsequently to be faulty due to manufacture or workmanship, we will rectify or replace the item. This guarantee only covers faulty manufacture or workmanship, and specifically excludes wear and tear, or accidental or malicious damage.
Rethreading
All strung necklaces (pearls, beads, etc.) will require rethreading at some time. Most threaders guarantee their work for a period of only 6 – 12 months. Necklaces should be examined regularly for evidence of stretching or fraying, and also for cleanliness. Knotted threads seem to get particularly soiled quite quickly. Clasps and safety chains should also be checked for wear and tear and damage.
How often your necklaces will require threading will obviously depend on how often you wear them, but if you are at all unsure, please ask for our advice.
In cases of multi-strand necklaces, the threaders will usually recommend rethreading of the whole necklace.
Please ask for a no-obligation quotation for your rethreading requirements.
How often your necklaces will require threading will obviously depend on how often you wear them, but if you are at all unsure, please ask for our advice.
In cases of multi-strand necklaces, the threaders will usually recommend rethreading of the whole necklace.
Please ask for a no-obligation quotation for your rethreading requirements.
Valuations
Dewi Griffiths Distinctive Jewellery offers written valuations for purposes of insurance and probate, and will also offer verbal advice (where appropriate) on value for sale between parties. We are members of The Guild of Valuers and Jewellers, and offer a professional, efficient service.
Insurance Valuations
We tend to think of jewellery values in terms of what we paid for them when purchased, which is often a very long time ago. In cases where the jewellery is inherited or received as a gift, we often have no idea at all as to value.
We would recommend that you have all of your jewellery items valued at least once*. You then have an accurate description and an indication as to which items would not be covered by your Insurers unless itemised. Those items which need to be itemised for your Insurers should then be re-valued approximately every 3 to 4 years.
* Those items covered by the "unspecified" limit on your policy need not be re-valued as often as 3 – 4 yearly intervals if you so wish. The choice is yours.
Please ask for details of our valuations service.
We would recommend that you have all of your jewellery items valued at least once*. You then have an accurate description and an indication as to which items would not be covered by your Insurers unless itemised. Those items which need to be itemised for your Insurers should then be re-valued approximately every 3 to 4 years.
* Those items covered by the "unspecified" limit on your policy need not be re-valued as often as 3 – 4 yearly intervals if you so wish. The choice is yours.
Please ask for details of our valuations service.
Probate Valuations
Probate valuations are required when assessing the estate of a deceased for taxation purposes. The valuations are considerably lower than those for insurance, being considered to be values for "forced" or immediate sale. Valuations for probate are not as detailed as those for insurance, and the turn around time is quicker accordingly.
We are pleased to advise on any aspect of valuation, for either insurance, probate or sale.
We are pleased to advise on any aspect of valuation, for either insurance, probate or sale.