Last Updated on June 23, 2024 by Jo
Have you noticed your wedding ring feeling a little tight lately?
It’s common for rings to need resizing over time due to natural fluctuations in weight and swelling.
Don’t worry – resizing a ring is a quick and easy process.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about determining if your ring needs resizing, how the process works, and what to expect.
How to Determine if Your Ring Needs Resizing
The best way to tell if your wedding ring needs resizing is the spinning test. Try spinning the ring around your finger – if it moves freely, it likely needs to be resized smaller. If it feels tight or stuck, it may need to be sized up. You want your ring to have a comfortable, snug fit that holds it in place without restricting circulation. If in doubt, consult with your jeweler – they can measure your finger and confirm if a resize is needed.
Professional Ring Resizing vs DIY Methods
When it comes time to resize your ring, you have two options – take it to a professional jeweler or attempt DIY methods at home. While DIY ring sizing kits are available, they come with risks like damaging the structural integrity of your ring. Jewelers have specialized tools and expertise to properly resize rings without compromising their strength and appearance. They can also polish and refinish the ring after resizing to restore its original luster. For best results, trust the resizing process to professional jewelers. They’ll ensure your cherished wedding ring is adjusted to fit comfortably while maintaining its quality and beauty for years to come.
The Ring Resizing Process Step-By-Step
Resizing a ring is a delicate process that requires precision and skill. Here is an overview of the typical steps a jeweler follows:
First, the jeweler will carefully assess the ring’s current size and determine how much needs to be adjusted. They will also inspect the ring for any cracks or damage that could compromise the resizing.
Next, they will select the proper tools and supplies. This may include ring mandrels, ring stretchers, filing tools, soldering torches, polishing compounds, and specialty pliers. The method will depend on the metal type and design of the ring.
To enlarge the ring, the jeweler will cut the band and insert a segment of metal. To reduce size, the jeweler will cut away a section of the band. Precise measurements and expert soldering skills are needed.
Once the resize is complete, the jeweler will polish and buff the ring to restore its original smooth finish and shine. A final inspection ensures proper fit and comfort.
With training and the right tools, jewelers can expertly resize wedding rings and other jewelry pieces. Trusting a professional helps ensure safety for the ring and a perfect fit for you.
Adding Metal vs Reshaping to Resize a Ring
When resizing a ring, jewelers have two main approaches: adding metal or reshaping the existing band. Each has its own benefits and limitations.
Adding metal involves cutting the ring, inserting a strip of additional material, and expertly soldering it together. This allows the jeweler to make the ring larger without compromising the structural integrity. It works well for slight size adjustments or rings with intricate designs.
Reshaping entails filing or compressing parts of the ring to achieve the desired size. The jeweler may use specialized pliers to taper, curve, or pinch areas of the band. This approach avoids cutting the ring but is typically only suitable for smaller modifications.
The jeweler will assess the ring’s metal, design, and needed change in size to recommend the best technique. Soft metals like gold can usually be resized with either method but reshaping may be better for minimal adjustments. Adding metal works well for more significant changes. Harder metals like tungsten are difficult to reshape.
Discuss your sizing needs with a jeweler to determine if adding metal or reshaping is the best option. Their expertise will ensure your cherished ring is resized properly and retains its beauty.
How Much Does It Cost to Resize a Ring?
The cost to resize a ring depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the complexity of the design, and the amount of change needed.
For simple bands in softer metals like gold, minor sizing adjustments often range from $20 to $80. More intricate styles with detailed engravings or set stones generally cost $50 to $150+ to resize. Rings in harder metals like platinum or tungsten can be $100 to $300+.
Significant size changes typically cost more, as they require adding substantial metal versus minor reshaping. Specialized techniques like laser welding for very fine bands also increase pricing.
Location plays a role too. Prices tend to be higher in major metro areas and with branded jewelers. Smaller local shops may offer more competitive rates.
The jeweler’s expertise is the biggest value. An experienced professional will protect the structural integrity and aesthetics of your ring during resizing. This specialized skill warrants the price for most customers.
Discuss your budget and options with the jeweler beforehand. Many offer free quotes. With the right care, your resized ring can be enjoyed for years to come.
How Long Does It Take To Resize a Wedding Ring?
The time it takes to resize a wedding ring can range from a few hours to several days depending on the jeweler, the complexity of the design, and how much sizing needs adjustment.
For simple sizing jobs of 1 to 2 sizes up or down, many jewelers can often complete the work in just a few hours or the same day. This may include straightforward bands in softer metals like gold.
More intricate rings with detailed engravings, multiple stones, or harder metals like platinum may take 1 to 3 days. The jeweler needs to take extra care in protecting the aesthetics during complicated resizing jobs.
Significant size changes of 3 or more sizes usually require several days to over a week. This allows for ordering additional metal and carefully integrating it into the ring’s design.
Rush orders are sometimes available for an added fee, but quality work takes time. Communicate your timeline to the jeweler upfront to ensure reasonable expectations.
While quick turnarounds are appealing, the most important factor is an expert, meticulous jeweler who will resize your ring seamlessly and with great care. This helps ensure proper fit and preserves the structural and aesthetic integrity of your cherished wedding ring.
Risks and Mistakes to Avoid When Resizing
Resizing a wedding ring is delicate work that requires an experienced jeweler. To avoid permanently damaging your ring, be aware of these common risks and mistakes:
- Cheaper is not always better. Seek out reputable jewelers known for quality craftsmanship, even if they charge more. Trying to save money with a less skilled jeweler often leads to irreparable damage.
- Don’t rush the process. Resizing takes time, especially for intricate designs. Let your jeweler work at their own pace to ensure the integrity of the ring is preserved.
- Avoid excessive repeated resizing. Metal can only be reliably resized 2-3 times before becoming too brittle. Plan for long-term fit from the start.
- Don’t choose a jeweler blindly. Look for one experienced in your ring’s particular metal and design. Improper technique can permanently ruin a ring.
- Refusing needed structural modifications. Simple sizing may not work for all rings. Listen to your jeweler’s structural reinforcement recommendations.
- Skipping the polishing/refinishing step. Proper cleanup work afterwards ensures your ring’s beauty is restored to like-new.
- Neglecting the diamonds/gemstones. Secure and protect them before sending off for resizing to avoid loss.
Take your time and vet your options when resizing to avoid damaging your ring. Trust an expert over the quick and cheap. Your cherished wedding ring is worth the investment.
Finding a Reputable Jeweler to Resize Your Ring
With your wedding ring being such a meaningful symbol, you’ll want to entrust its resizing only to a reputable jeweler. Here’s how to find one:
- Ask for personal referrals from friends and family who have had positive experiences. Word-of-mouth is often the best indicator of quality.
- Research online reviews and testimonials. Look for consistently high ratings and satisfied comments praising their resizing skills.
- Evaluate jewelry store membership in trade associations like the Jewelers of America or American Gem Society. This signals their commitment to quality and ethical standards.
- Ask to see before and after photos of resized rings they have done. Examine the quality of the results.
- Consider custom jewelers. While pricier, they specialize in delicate ring resizing versus chain retail stores.
- Ask lots of questions beforehand about their sizing process, policies, warranties and experience. Gauge their responsiveness and knowledge.
- Request an inspection of your ring first. A reputable jeweler will evaluate its unique considerations before committing.
- Compare pricing and service packages. Fair pricing aligned with great service indicates a trusted jeweler.
Taking your time to vet jewelers on these factors will help surface the most qualified candidates to entrust with successfully resizing your beloved wedding ring.
Caring for Your Ring After Resizing
Once your wedding ring has been properly resized by a reputable jeweler, you’ll want to be diligent about caring for it to keep it looking its best.
- Be gentle and remove your ring before vigorous housework or yardwork to prevent damage. The resized band will need time to adjust.
- When storing your ring, place it in a secure box versus laying it out to prevent accidental bumps and scratches.
- Clean your ring regularly with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and water. Harsh chemicals can erode the resized band over time.
- Consider having your ring professionally cleaned and inspected by your jeweler every 6 months. This will remove built-up grime and assess for loose stones.
- Immediately repair any new prongs, chips or other defects that arise to prevent further damage. Your jeweler can easily modify repairs to accommodate the new band size.
- Take your ring off when applying lotions, perfumes or other chemicals. Residue can build up in the setting underneath the stones.
- When in doubt, always ask your jeweler questions about the safest products and practices for caring for your newly resized cherished ring.
With some extra care and maintenance, your resized wedding ring can stay as flawless as the day you said “I do” for many more anniversaries to come.
People Also Asked (FAQs)
Can I Make a Wedding Ring Bigger and How Much Does It Cost?
Yes, you can make a wedding ring bigger, and the cost typically ranges from $50 to $150. The exact price depends on the ring’s material, design complexity, and the amount of resizing required.
Can I Make a Wedding Ring Bigger If It Has Diamonds?
Yes, you can make a wedding ring bigger even if it has diamonds. A professional jeweler can carefully resize the ring without damaging the diamonds, ensuring they remain secure and the ring maintains its beauty.
Can I Make a Wedding Ring Bigger If It’s Made of Platinum?
Yes, you can make a wedding ring bigger if it’s made of platinum. Platinum rings can be resized, although the process may be more expensive and time-consuming due to the metal’s hardness and density.
How Long Does It Take to Make a Wedding Ring Bigger?
The time it takes to make a wedding ring bigger varies but typically ranges from a few hours to a few days. The complexity of the ring and the jeweler’s workload can affect the timeframe.
Conclusion
As discussed, it is possible to make a wedding ring bigger if it becomes too tight over time. A jeweler can resize a ring by stretching the metal or adding more precious metal to increase the size. Costs vary based on the work needed, but simple jobs may start around $40. While resizing a wedding ring takes skill, it is a common adjustment professional jewelers can make. So if your cherished wedding ring becomes too snug, you can often have it resized to make it bigger and comfortable again. With resizing, you can continue wearing a wedding ring that holds special meaning, even if your fingers change over the years.
