How to Repair Marcasite Jewelry

Marcasite jewelry is an easy way to add vintage flair to any outfit. While lovely to look at, the pyrite commonly found in marcasite jewelry makes it necessary to exercise special care when repairing it. Maintenance is the best defense against damage to marcasite, but options are available to restore luster and shine to your jewelry.

• 1

  Prevent damage to jewelry to minimize repairs down the road. Marcasite is a soft stone and is particularly susceptible to nicks and cracks. Store each piece in a separate, soft pouch to avoid damage from other stones. Do not use water or liquid jewelry cleaner to clean marcasite jewelry, as the glue securing the stone can dissolve with repeated exposure. Lightly buff each piece with a soft, dry cloth and do not use an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner.

• 2

  Reset any loose stones with jeweler's cement.This is the common method for affixing marcasite stones, and jeweler's cement can be purchased readily at craft stores or through the Internet. Avoid using commercial glues, as the high water content of many of these epoxies can damage stones over the long term.

• 3

  Consult with a professional jeweler if you chip or crack a marcasite stone in your jewelry. Marcasite is difficult to refinish, and your jeweler may have to remove your stone and source a replacement. You can discuss the option of resetting the stone yourself with your crafts-person. It is also possible that your marcasite may be small chips of steel; it is not uncommon for steel to be used in place of marcasite or for steel jewelry to be incorrectly identified. Should that be the case, your jeweler can advise you on how to replace the steel with marcasite.