Costume jewelry paint repair

Jewelry Discussion
1

I have a huge collection of costume earrings. I remake jewelry
(mostly for myself). A lot of them are made by not-so-amateur
jewelers. Some of the more recent ones are made of a cheap metal
and/or what looks like brass and then painted. Not shiny. I wear
these so much some of them have become chipped. Could anyone tell me
what paint is most likely to be used? Does it need to be fired? I
realize most of you are professional or semi-professional and don’t
fool with “costume jewelry”, but perhaps you can give me a clue. I
have some other issues to address if anyone has the time or
inclination to answer me.

Thanks so much!
Judy

2

Judy

It is hard to determine the “type” of paint that is used on costume
jewelry without first seeing the item in question. Over the years
everything from hard enamel, to nail polish (I kid you not) has been
used on fashion jewerly. How old are the items you want to repair. It
the “paint” sprayed in multilevels? Is it worn or chipped? These are
some of the questions that one must answer to determine how the items
were made. My suggestion is for you to send me a jpeg and let me look
at it. By the way, I have only about 35 years experience in the
fashion end of the business.

Best
Paul DeFruscio
Jennifer Rose Ltd

3

This thread is a few days old - just having a break and reviewing
Orchids----. The very best source for high quality paint in lots of
colors and small quantities is good ol’ Testor’s - model paint. It’s
great paint to begin with, and has a lot of colors and also mixes
well. As another replied to this - if you want a perfect repair on
costume you’re going to have to do more than model paint, but if you
just want a decent touch-up (after you color match), check it out. I
use to paint mandalas on windows with it - it’s great stuff.

http://www.donivanandmaggiora.com

4

Nail polish is excellent repair paint for costume jewelry. Comes in
thousands of colors.

5

My thanks to Paul and Rich and John for their valued council on my
costume jewelry paint question.

Is there a “trick” to keep paint from chipping off metal? A primer
perhaps, or firing (or in my case "baking)? Thanks again for
answering
this rank amateur!

Judy

6

Judy

I think the best method is just to spray on a clear laquer,
something like krylon. It will add a shine to your item. It will all
most duplicate the “wet look”. So try it on something that has little
or no value. Good luck and let me know how you make out.

Best
Paul DeFruscio