Services

Diamond Certification

Although many diamonds look the same, not all of them are going to be of the quality you would like or are able to ascertain, unless you take professional advice. Diamond Certification is the written statement of a diamonds attributes. Certification will give you the precise grading for each of the 4C's – carat weight, cut, colour, and clarity – but not the price or value.

Many independent gemmological laboratories issue diamond certificates. The principal ones are the American GIA (Gemmological Institute of America), the International Gemmological Institute (IGI), European Gem Laboratory (EGL), The Antwerp Laboratory (HRD), together with a number of Gem Labs here in the UK. Should you wish for a diamond to be certificated, whether it is one you are purchasing from us or one that is a retrospective certificate, we can advise as to which Laboratory will provide the most appropriate and cost effective certificate for your needs. [Back to top]

Jewellery Repairs

Our fully equipped workshops and our highly skilled, experienced jewellers offer a full range of skilled services from a simple ring sizing, retipping of claws, chain soldering, stone polishing, re-enamelling to a complete remake or restoration. Our working jewellers are passionate about their work and enjoy preserving the extraordinary beauty, quality and craftsmanship, which are the hallmarks of a fine piece of jewellery. You can trust us to give your jewellery our full care and the attention it deserves. All our work is fully guaranteed and your jewellery is fully insured whilst in our care. [Back to top]

Pearl Threading

Good threading is an art in itself. Cultured pearls are usually knotted individually to prevent rubbing and limit loss in the event of the thread breaking. If you wear your pearls regularly, the natural oils in your skin and of course, general wear, will in time damage the silk thread, which could lead to stretching, fraying or worst, breaking. To keep your pearls in top condition, we advise that you have them checked and maybe re-strung annually. An occasional clean with a soft cloth moistened with mild soapy water is recommended to keep your pearls gleaming. [Back to top]

Remodel and Restoration

New pieces of jewellery can be made from any old or broken jewellery that you may have in your jewel box. Gemstones can be re-set in new designs allowing family heirlooms to become wearable treasures. We can remodel your jewellery working with your existing gemstones or supply new stones just to add a bit more sparkle. With our experience in conservation work, we can undertake restoration of items manufactured in a variety of precious metals. Careful matching of materials and techniques can ensure a seamless repair to heirlooms, valuables and historic pieces. [Back to top]

Engraving

Often seen as one of the pinnacles of the Jewellers' Art, our seal and crest engraving skills are second to none. We relish the challenge of researching your family crest, providing accurate facsimiles of thousands of British heraldic crests and transforming your crest into the traditional 'intaglio' reverse engraving of the 'Seal crest'. Our engraver with the skilled use of his age old tools and a simple mirror will produce a negative image of your crest which when applied to sealing wax will leave a positive impression, in more ways than one, which will be correct in every detail. We hold numerous examples of our work - please ask for a quotation. [Back to top]

Valuations

There are a number of reasons why it is essential to have your jewellery regularly valued. These could be for Insurance, Probate, Family Division or Sale between Parties.

It goes without saying that any jewellery you own should be adequately protected by the appropriate insurance. Even if you already have insurance cover based on a valuation given to you some time ago, it would be prudent to review this document due to the fluctuating cost of gold, diamonds, gems, labour costs, together with changing exchange rates. Any combination of these factors can result in considerable discrepancies from the original valuation. We recommend that every 3-5 years you should have a re-valuation, which, if the original was undertaken by ourselves, will be carried out at a reduced cost. Book a valuation online today.

Our valuation, undertaken by qualified and registered valuers, will contain a description and specification sufficiently detailed to be able to identify the item should they be stolen or lost, together with a photograph or computer scan. Each item will be valued on prices pertaining at the time, our technical knowledge and our experience of the current market information.

Please ask our staff for a separate leaflet outlining our charges and explaining in more detail the benefits of having Francis Wain Jewellers undertake your valuation. [Back to top]

Insurance Replacement

Losing a family heirloom or a gift from a loved one can be a disaster, but trying to obtain satisfaction from your insurers can be even worse. Francis Wain Jewellers offer free consultations and low cost, itemised estimates for insurance replacement. Any charges you incur will be refunded if the claim is settled through us. All we need is a detailed description as you can mange of the lost or stolen items. We will then draft a claim and letter for you to submit to your insurers stating the estimated replacement or repair cost. Once we get the go ahead then we can arrange the replacement item often in a matter of days. [Back to top]

Post Loss Valuation

For whatever reason, when an item of jewellery goes missing, it is usual for insurance companies to request that you get a letter stating the current value of the items in question. Whilst we know we cannot see the missing pieces, we can, with your help, to arrive at an accurate replacement figure that will provide compensation for your loss. [Back to top]

Brokerage/Sale on Commission

Why trust the sale of unwanted jewellery to an Auction House? Their ever increasing commissions, hidden charges, expensive photography fees and up to three months delay before receiving the balance due to you, plus the fact that the ‘hammer price’ is often below trade or cost prices is an unattractive option when we can often deliver a much higher nett value to you. It you wish to dispose of a piece of jewellery, call and see our experts. We can advise a realistic second-hand value that you might achieve together with our terms and conditions. If these are acceptable then we market your item of jewellery with the same passion and inspiration as our own antique and estate jewellery offer.we get the go ahead then we can arrange the replacement item often in a matter of days. [Back to top]

Watch Servicing

We undertake most watch repairs, from replacing watch crystals and winding buttons and stems through the complete overhaul and restoration of vintage timepieces. The servicing of every watch, whether it is a quartz or mechanical includes the complete disassembly of each piece of the movement. Each part is carefully examined for damage or wear and then thoroughly cleaned, inspected again and then reassembled. The watch is carefully checked and where necessary adjusted to ensure optimum performance, oiled and regulated to be as accurate as possible on the latest state of the art equipment. The movement is refitted to the case, tested and timed over a set period before being returned to the customer. All components fitted during the service, together with the service itself are guaranteed for 12 months. Generally 10-12 working days needs to be allowed unless parts have to be specially ordered. A waterproofing service is available through the various manufacturers. [Back to top]

Watch Dial Restoration

Restore your watch dial to its former pristine condition. Expert treatment of watch dials that have faded, oxidised or generally deteriorated allows them to be reconditioned as if new. This includes replacement of missing batons, numerals, brand logo’s, hands, and the refinishing of the dial surface, where possible in the original style. With the ‘Retro look’ now in fashion and mechanical watches experiencing a strong comeback together with the classical brands realising high second hand values, it is money well spent to have your original timepiece and it’s sentimental value restored. [Back to top]

Silverware Repairs

No job is too large, or small. We take great pride in our ability to undertake to most good quality silverware and electroplate items. These range from rebristling a silver hair brush, blue glass liners to condiments sets, refitting handles to silver knives, replating a salver, or restoring a dented teapot. The list is almost endless – we believe that we have the specialist knowledge to deal with whatever you may present to us – we look forward to you testing our expertise. [Back to top]

Creative Design Service

Turning Ideas into reality...

Why not commission a piece to be made especially for you?
Our design team is well equipped to deal with bespoke requests large or small. Working closely with our goldsmiths and stone suppliers we can turn practically any design into reality that reflects your taste, style and budget. We will provide complete and working sketches for your approval before you commit and offer the opportunity for you to receive email pictures of the work in progress. So whatever creative and inspired ideas you may have, for whatever occasion, call and discuss them with our experts who can advise on the best way of your achieving your personal 'jewel'. [Back to top]

Wishlist

It's easy to create a 'Wish List' of what you would really like and appreciate; as you browse through our website, click the 'Add to Wish List' on the page when any item catches your eye. You can then send the list as a 'Gentle Hint' to the email address of your spouse, partner or friend and we will do the rest. You can manage your list online, anywhere, anytime. Give us the dates of any future anniversary, birthday or other occasion and we will do a little gentle reminding when the time comes! Get Started. [Back to top]

Antique & Pre-owned

We are keen buyers of previously owned and antique jewellery and endeavour to offer interesting pieces of Edwardian and Victorian jewellery. We do offer a sale on commission facility, which can result in tour disposal through the auction rooms. We are happy to discuss your personal requirements. [Back to top]

Special Orders

Most items in this catalogue are available set with alternative gemstones and /or white gold/platinum. Please let us know if you are looking for a personalised variation - our design team can help you create your own piece of jewellery. [Back to top]

Gift Vouchers

Available for any amount between £25 - £5,000. [Back to top]

Layaway Service

We offer free 'Lay-away' service enabling you to make a purchase over a maximum of six months. you secure your purchase with a small deposit and then you can pay as much or as little as you like, according to your budget. The perfect payment plan for wedding rings and anniversary presents. [Back to top]

Delivery Info

This website is only for delivery of products to customers in mainland UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Northern Ireland addresses. We cannot deliver to Orkney, Shetland and Scottish Islands, BFPO addresses, or the Republic of Ireland. All goods must be signed for by an adult aged 18 years or over on delivery.

All orders over £200 will receive delivery free of charge.

We offer a free gift wrapping service at no extra cost. You can select this option during the checkout process. [Back to top]