What the gaps mean
Silk absorbs everything your skin and your bathroom put on it, and it stretches under the weight of the pearls. When you can see thread between them, the strand has lengthened and the knots have loosened. It is working towards a break.
Catch it here
Restringing a stretched strand is a planned job. Restringing after a break means first finding out how many pearls you lost. The difference is worth the trip.
While it is with us
- Every pearl is checked for wear at the drill hole, which is where they fail.
- The clasp is checked and reused if it is sound.
- They are knotted between each pearl unless yours is a design that should not be.
- The length is kept, or changed if you would rather — say so when you drop it off.
Keeping them longer
Put pearls on last, after perfume and hairspray, and wipe them with a soft cloth before they go away. Store them flat rather than hanging, because hanging is what stretches the silk.
Questions we get asked
How do I know if they need restringing?
If you can see thread between the pearls, or they have gone noticeably longer, it is time.
How often should it be done?
Every couple of years with regular wear.
Can you keep the same length?
Yes, or change it. Tell us when you drop it off.
Do you check the pearls themselves?
Yes, particularly around the drill holes, which is where wear shows first.
Not sure we can fix it?
Send a couple of details and we will call you back. Or just walk in — it is quicker, and we can actually look at the piece.
Drop it off, shop the mall, wear it tonight
We are inside Orland Square Mall in Orland Park. Walk in during mall hours, no appointment. Most repairs are finished the same day and a good number while you wait.
Where we are
Julio's Jewelry, 800 Orland Square Drive, Orland Park, IL 60462 — inside Orland Square Mall. Mon–Thu 10am–8pm · Fri–Sat 10am–9pm · Sun 11am–6pm. We are also at North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 W Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546.