by Lea Nogueira
Portuguese filigree restoration
Viana hearts, arrecadas earrings, family pendants: filigree is delicate and over the years it loses wires, gets dented or comes apart. We rebuild it with the same technique it was made with.
The service
Filigree is the technique we love most at the atelier, and the one that asks most of whoever restores it. Each missing infill is remade with hand-twisted, flattened wire of the same gauge as the original.
Old solder joints can reflow under heat, so every intervention is planned not to put at risk what is still sound.
The aim is for the piece to be worn again, keeping what makes it unique: the design, the metal and the patina of time.
What we do
- Condition assessment
- Rebuilding missing infill and wires
- Redoing loose solder joints
- Straightening dented frames
- Gentle cleaning, without over-polishing
Who it's for
Silver or gold filigree, especially antique and heirloom pieces.
How it works
- Send us your requestTell us what you need and, if you can, attach a photo of the piece or model.
- Get a quoteWe reply by email within 24 working hours with price and timing, or with questions if we need to see the piece.
- Drop off the pieceAt the atelier in Lisbon, by appointment, or by registered post.
- Collect or receive itWe let you know when it is ready. Collect it at the atelier or have it delivered.
Frequently asked questions
Can every filigree piece be restored?
Most can. We assess from a photo and confirm with the piece in hand before the final quote.
Will the restoration show?
We aim for it not to. New wires match the original gauge and the finish is matched to the piece's patina.
Do you restore gold filigree?
Yes, both silver and gold.
Want to learn the technique?
We run a 3-hour Portuguese filigree workshop, no experience needed.
Read our guide: Filigree restoration: how an antique piece is brought back
