Sending your jewelry out for repair can feel like a leap of faith.
It’s not just about gold or gemstones—it’s about memories, sentiment, and often, irreplaceable pieces. That’s why we’ve built our Precious Cargo system around one core principle: trust through transparency.
From your first message to the final polish, we want you to know exactly where your jewelry is, what’s happening to it, and how we’re keeping it safe. Here’s what to expect when you work with us.
1. Getting Started: Requesting a Precious Cargo Kit
You can request a Precious Cargo Kit online or during a virtual consultation. If you’d rather send your jewelry independently, you’ll find the appropriate address and instructions on our Contact page.
What’s in the Kit?
- Secure, tamper-evident packaging
- Instructions for safe packing
- A unique identifier code
- A link to our online intake questionnaire
- Optional insured return label (for purchased kits)
📦 Please note: Complimentary kits are not insured beyond the USPS default ($100). You’re welcome to insure your jewelry separately or purchase an upgraded kit through our website.
2. When Your Jewelry Arrives: Inspection & Intake
Once your shipment is on the way, we open an internal order using its unique identifier—so your jewelry already has a digital “home base.” This identifier code follows your jewelry through the entire repair process.
When your piece arrives:
- You’re immediately notified via text or email.
- We photograph every angle and detail of your items using studio lighting and macro photography.
- We log weights, measurements, stamps, hallmarks, and any existing damage. If any testing is required to determine metal quality or verify stone authenticity, it happens during this step.
- If you’re sending raw materials or redesign elements, we document them as well.
We don’t rely on memory—we build a digital profile for your piece, so no details fall through the cracks. Everything is handled carefully, recorded clearly, and stored securely.
3. Evaluation & Quote: Your Options, Your Call
Our experts inspect each piece closely. We may identify issues you noticed—and sometimes a few you didn’t.
Then we prepare a detailed estimate that:
- Itemizes every suggested repair
- Explains any durability or safety risks
- Offers alternatives when appropriate (e.g., rebuild vs. retip a prong)
We send you the quote, answer your questions, and wait for your go-ahead before proceeding.
✅ You’re in charge of what gets done. No work starts until you approve the plan.
4. The Work Begins: Repair, Redesign, or Restoration
Once approved, your piece moves into production.
We operate two workshops:
- Connecticut, where Sophie leads the design team of talented local artisans
- Florida, where Jim Stradley—Sophie’s father and our gemcutter—works alongside experienced craftsmen
We do not ship customer jewelry overseas. All work is performed in-house by trusted professionals. Our designs are proudly made in the USA.
You’ll receive updates via text as your jewelry moves to each step of the repair process, and all communications are logged for continuity and care.
5. Final Quality Control: No Detail Overlooked
Before your piece leaves our hands, it goes through a rigorous final checklist:
- We verify work was completed correctly
- Compare against initial photos and measurements
- Check prongs, settings, polish, and any engraving
- Photograph the final piece under studio lighting, on-hand for scale, and in natural light
🎥 In many cases, we also record a short video highlighting the transformation.
You’ll receive these visuals to approve before your piece is shipped back.
6. Shipping Your Jewelry Home
Once approved:
- We send a secure payment link for any remaining balance
- Repackage your jewelry with care
- Ship it to you with tracking and (if purchased) full insurance
- Provide care instructions and all your documentation
7. FAQs: What Customers Are Really Asking
Is there a risk of loss or damage to my jewelry?
We treat every package with the same care we’d use for our own heirlooms. Our system uses tracking, photo documentation, and secure storage throughout. For maximum peace of mind, we recommend purchasing insured kits or insuring your jewelry independently.
How do I know my diamond won’t be switched?
We photograph your stones at high resolution the moment they arrive. You may also request a complimentary loupe to compare your stone at home. Additionally, only one piece is worked on at a time to eliminate any chance of mix-ups.
Can I drop it off in person?
At this time, our workshops are not open to the public, and all repairs are conducted via our secure shipping process.
How long will it take?
Most repairs are completed within 2–3 weeks after approval, though complex projects may take longer. You’ll be given a realistic timeline upfront.
Will I see what’s happening along the way?
Yes. You’ll receive text updates when your jewelry moves through key stages—and final photos and/or video before return.
Who is working on my jewelry?
All repairs are done in-house by our team of skilled goldsmiths, silversmiths, stone setters, and designers. We don’t outsource or ship overseas.
Can I do part of the repair and wait on the rest?
Of course. We’ll explain any potential risks of partial repair (e.g., choosing to retip a prong rather than rebuild it), and you’ll always make the final call.
Will you remember what you did if I come back later?
Yes. We keep a complete record—photos, measurements, notes—so we can refer back to it anytime.
Can I redesign something instead of repairing it?
Absolutely. We can restore, refresh, or completely transform your jewelry into something new while preserving its story.Do you have a question we haven't answered? We're always available to help! Just drop us a line at customercare@stradleyjewelers.com.
Behind Every Repair Is a Relationship
We know your jewelry means something. It’s not just about sparkle—it’s about connection. Our job is to treat your pieces with the same care and reverence we’d give our own.
Whether you’re repairing a clasp or redesigning an heirloom, we’re here to guide you through every step—with full transparency and total respect.
Request your Precious Cargo Kit →
Let’s give your jewelry the care it deserves.
