Claw Retipping & Prong Rebuilding in Melbourne CBD
At MDT DESIGN, we specialise in professional claw retipping and prong rebuilding in Melbourne, helping to protect your diamonds and precious gemstones for years to come. All work is completed on-site in our Melbourne CBD workshop, ensuring exceptional craftsmanship, security and quality control.
If you’ve noticed a loose stone, sharp claws, or your ring catching on clothing, it may be time to consider claw (prong) retipping.
Have any Questions? CONTACT US to discuss your jewellery retipping needs.
What Are Claws and Prongs?
Claws and prongs mean the same thing – they are the small metal arms that hold a diamond or gemstone securely in place within a setting. They are essential to the safety and longevity of your jewellery.
Over time, claws naturally wear down due to everyday knocks, bumps and general wear. Even careful wearers will experience gradual metal loss. As claws become thinner, shorter or worn, they lose their ability to properly secure the stone.
If not maintained, this can lead to:
- A loose gemstone
- Visible stone movement
- Increased risk of chipping
- The stone falling out and potentially being lost
Losing a stone can make repairs significantly more costly.
Signs Your Claws May Be Worn
There are several common signs that indicate you may require claw retipping or prong rebuilding:
- Claws appearing sharp or pointed
- Claws looking flat or worn down
- The rings claws are catching on clothing or fabrics
- A stone that feels loose or moves slightly
- Uneven or thinning metal around the setting
Sharp claws often indicate the metal has worn thin and is starting to narrow at the top, while flat claws can mean there is insufficient metal covering the stone. Both are warning signs that should be professionally assessed.
At MDT DESIGN, we strongly recommend having your jewellery professionally inspected once a year to ensure there are no concerns and to prevent avoidable damage.
How Long Do Claws Last?
With normal daily wear, claws typically require rebuilding every 8 to 10 years. However, this timeframe can vary depending on:
- How often the piece is worn
- Lifestyle and activity levels
- The type of metal (gold or platinum)
- The design and size of the claws
Routine inspections help identify wear early, allowing for simple claw retipping rather than more extensive repairs.
When Claw Retipping Is Left Too Long
If claws are excessively worn, there may not be enough structural integrity remaining to safely retip them. In these cases:
- Individual claws may need to be completely replaced, or
- The entire setting may need to be remade
- Entire ring may need to be remade
Addressing worn claws early is always more cost-effective and helps preserve the original design of your ring.
Our Claw Retipping Process in Melbourne
All claw retipping and prong rebuilding in Melbourne is completed in-house at our Melbourne CBD studio.
Our process includes:
- Thorough inspection of the claws and gemstone security
- Safe removal of the stone if required
- Laser welding or rebuilding the claws using matching metal
- Reshaping and refining the claws to suit the original design
- Final polishing and quality checks
We work with all precious metals, including:
- Yellow gold
- White gold
- Rose gold
- Platinum
Every repair is completed with precision to ensure the stone is secure and the setting remains strong and aesthetically refined.
Time it Takes to Retip Your Jewellery
The time it takes to retip your jewellery will vary depending on the extent of wear and complexity of the repair. As a general guide, we advise:
7 to 14 business days
If additional work is required, we will discuss this with you prior to proceeding.
Cost of Claw Retipping in Melbourne
The cost of claw retipping or prong rebuilding depends on:
- The number of claws requiring rebuilding
- The type of metal
- The complexity of the setting
- Whether stones need to be removed and reset
Following an in-person assessment at MDT DESIGN, we provide a clear and transparent quote before commencing any work.
Why Choose MDT DESIGN for Claw Retipping?
- All repairs completed on-site in Melbourne CBD
- Experienced jewellers specialising in fine jewellery repairs
- Precision laser welding technology
- Clear communication and honest quoting
- Focus on long-term stone security
Your diamond or gemstone is only as secure as the claws holding it in place. If your ring is over 8 years old, worn daily, or showing signs of wear, it may be time to book a professional inspection.
Book a Claw Retipping Inspection in Melbourne
If you are searching for claw retipping in Melbourne or prong retipping in Melbourne CBD, MDT DESIGN can assist.
CONTACT US at MDT DESIGN to arrange a professional assessment and ensure your jewellery remains secure, safe and beautifully finished for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions – Claw Retipping & Prong Rebuilding in Melbourne
How do I know if I need claw retipping on my ring?
Common signs you may need claw retipping include sharp or pointed claws, flat or thinning prongs, your ring catching on clothing, or a stone that feels loose. Worn claws lose their strength over time, increasing the risk of a stone becoming dislodged. At MDT DESIGN in Melbourne CBD, we recommend having your jewellery professionally inspected once a year to prevent avoidable damage.
What is the difference between claw retipping and prong retipping?
There is no difference – claws and prongs are the same thing. The terms are used interchangeably in jewellery. Both refer to the small metal arms that secure a gemstone in place. Claw retipping or prong retipping involves rebuilding worn metal to ensure the stone remains safe and secure.
How often should claws be rebuilt?
With normal daily wear, claws typically require rebuilding every 8 to 10 years. However, this depends on how often the ring is worn, lifestyle factors and the type of metal. Regular yearly inspections at MDT DESIGN in Melbourne can help identify wear early and avoid more complex repairs.
What happens if worn claws are not repaired?
If worn claws are left unattended, the stone can become loose and may eventually fall out. In some cases, the gemstone can be lost entirely, which can make the repair significantly more costly – particularly if the original diamond cannot be recovered. Early claw retipping in Melbourne is far more cost-effective than replacing a lost stone.
Can all claws be retipped?
In many cases, yes. However, if the claws are excessively worn and there is insufficient metal remaining, they may need to be fully replaced. In more severe cases, the entire setting may need to be remade to ensure the stone is secure. MDT DESIGN assesses each piece individually at our Melbourne CBD workshop to determine the safest solution.
How long does claw retipping take in Melbourne?
Turnaround time for claw retipping at MDT DESIGN is generally 7 to 14 business days, depending on the number of claws being rebuilt and the complexity of the setting. All work is completed on-site in our Melbourne CBD studio.
How much does claw retipping cost?
The cost of prong retipping or claw rebuilding in Melbourne depends on: • The number of claws requiring repair • The type of metal (gold or platinum) • The complexity of the setting • Whether stones need to be removed and reset We provide a clear quote following an in-person assessment at MDT DESIGN.
Do you complete claw retipping on-site in Melbourne?
Yes. All claw retipping and prong rebuilding is completed on-site at MDT DESIGN in Melbourne CBD. We do not outsource repairs, ensuring quality control and expert craftsmanship throughout the process.
Can you retip claws on engagement rings?
Yes. Engagement rings are one of the most common pieces requiring claw retipping in Melbourne due to daily wear. Regular maintenance helps protect your diamond and ensures long-term security.
