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Read FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

At CHINA AND CRYSTAL CLINIC in Tempe, Arizona, we want to ensure that our clients are well informed on what we are offering. Learn more about our conservation and restoration services by reading the answers to some frequently asked questions.

What should I do first when valuable items break?

Never ever "glue" your broken pieces together. It will skyrocket the price of restoration, especially if you use rubber, silicone, or epoxy cement. Relax! It is almost certain that it can be repaired!


Pick up all the pieces carefully so as not to cut yourself and not to cause further damage to the broken pieces. Afterward, wrap the larger pieces in bubble wrap or tissue, and put them in a zip lock bag. Don’t forget to put the small and tiny pieces in a tissue paper before putting them inside.

Are all restorers the same?

No! Make sure they have experience and education by checking their references and experience. It takes practice to do quality invisible restoration. It also requires continuous education to keep up with the latest techniques.


CHINA AND CRYSTAL CLINIC is a member of the Association of Restorers (AOR). The association prides itself on continuing education and carefully following the guidelines for conservation and restoration. We do our own work, and we have more than 60 years of combined experience in the restoration field. Please see our many references. 

Can I have dinnerware restored?

You can restore dinnerware, but we will not guarantee it for use. I would suggest you do it for decorative purposes only. Restoration is not fired in a kiln. The chemicals involved in the process are HIGHLY TOXIC AND NOT APPROVED FOR FOOD.


Crystal items are a different matter since the chips from crystals will have no effect on their future use. Crystals that are bonded together can usually be used again depending on the material we use. Please let us know if you want to be able to use the item before we begin the process.

How long will it take to have an item restored?

It will depend on the extent of the damages. Normally, it takes about 4-6 weeks to bond or conserve items. But for full restoration, it takes 6-8 months, depending on the degree of damage. Meanwhile, grinding a chip from a goblet or bowl usually takes a couple of weeks.

Can I get an estimate before sending the piece?

We can give a ballpark estimate with clear pictures. However, the actual estimate will be determined once we have the piece in our shop.

How much will it cost?

Chip Grounding From a Goblet - Starts at $35.00*

Piece Bonding (Conservation) - Starts at $85.00 and Up

Full Restoration - Starts at $165.00 and Up

Swarovski Crystals - $65.00 and Up


*This depends not on the number of chips but on the thickness of the glass and the depth of the chip.

Does restoration affect its value?

That is up to the buyer. In other words, if the piece is valuable or rare like a restored painting, it might not affect the price that much. But if the piece is a family heirloom, the value will be the fact that you can keep and enjoy it again without thinking about it being broken.

How should I ship it to you?

Please see our shipping instructions.

What if some of the pieces are missing?

Missing pieces are our specialty! We can refabricate almost anything, including some crystal parts.

What if the item has already been restored or

glued together badly?

We use the correct method for poorly restored items. It is not uncommon for people to try and fix it themselves first.

We have been fixing bad restorations for years. Believe us when we say we are one of the best restoration studios

available today.

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