How to remove gems from sockets in Diablo 3

If you’ve managed to get yourself a Legendary Simplicity’s Strength and slotted into a high-tier ring, you’re going to want to hold onto both. There are ways to remove gems from sockets in Diablo 3: easy but destructive, or tricky and delicate. Obviously, depending on how much you value the item you have your precious gem slotted into depends on how you go about getting it back for reuse.

Diablo 3 – Two ways to remove gems from sockets

Gems are a resource in the game that are really worth hanging onto. They can be leveled throughout the game, making them much more powerful than their originally found state. As you inevitably switch between different rings, amulets, and other armor pieces, you’re probably going to want to transfer them around. Legendary Gems don’t crop up all that often, and if you’ve put the hours in to get them to high levels, losing them would be a travesty. Luckily, there are the two ways to unsocket your gems.

Blacksmith

For a super early game way to remove gems from sockets in Diablo 3, your best bet is a Blacksmith. Haedrig Eamon can be unlocked in the opening act of Diablo 3 — the ‘A Shattered Crown’ quest will award you a Blacksmith in your base.

Using the Blacksmith, you can remove gems from sockets by simply using the salvage section of his abilities. Simply drop your item, equipped with a gem, into the box and click ‘Salvage.’ Be aware that you will lose whatever item the gem is slotted into. It will be broken down into parts. This process is free.

Covetous Shen the Jeweler

Alternatively, for a late-game option to remove gems from sockets in Diablo 3, visit Covetous Shen. He can be found hiding in a barrel in Act 2, somewhere in the Aqueduct found during the seventh quest. In adventure mode, he will be waiting for you in your home base.

Visiting Covetous Shen will allow you to remove the gem and keep the slotted gear intact. Additionally, this does cost a small fee, but if the item is too valuable to scrap, it is well worth it. Simply select ‘Remove Gem’ and pop your item in.