How To Resize Your Gold Wedding Band

Wedding rings are a symbol of love and commitment, but over time, they may no longer fit comfortably. This could be due to weight changes, swelling, or changes in finger size. If your gold wedding band no longer fits, resizing is an option. Gold rings can be resized, and there are several methods to make them bigger or smaller. In this article, we will explore the different ways to enlarge a gold wedding band, ensuring a comfortable fit for the wearer.

Ring stretching

Using a Ring Stretcher Tool:

• Slide the hollow bottom of the ring stretcher into its base.
• Place the ring around the hollow mandrel and insert the pin.
• Use a rawhide hammer to gently hammer the top of the stretcher.
• Try on the ring to check if the size is correct. If not, hammer the ring again.

Using a Steel Mandrel:

• Slide the ring onto a steel mandrel, starting from the narrow end.
• Tap all the way around the ring with a rawhide hammer, using the same amount of pressure for each tap.
• Flip the ring over and tap the other side.
• Continue hammering and flipping the ring until it reaches the desired size.

It is important to note that ring stretching should not be done on rings with stones or engravings, as it may damage them. Additionally, stretching a ring can only increase its size by up to half, as stretching the metal further will weaken and potentially break the ring. For larger size increases, it is recommended to consult a professional jeweller who can use alternative methods such as cutting the ring and soldering an additional piece of metal.

Adding sizing beads

Sizing beads are small metal balls that can be soldered onto the inside of a ring band to make it fit more snugly on the finger. They are a great alternative to resize a ring with the least amount of impact on the ring. They are typically available in gold (white, rose, or yellow) due to the difference in melting points when adhering the beads to the host metal. If the host metal is a white metal like platinum or palladium, white gold sizing beads are used.

Sizing beads are a semi-permanent solution and can be removed by a jeweler if needed, without leaving any visible impact on the ring. They are a good option if you have "bony knuckles" or fingers that tend to swell and contract, as they do not affect the ability of the ring to fit over your knuckle but do hold the ring steadier on your finger. They are also a good alternative if you want to avoid the claustrophobic feeling of a ring that is too tight.

Sizing beads are generally inexpensive, costing around $40, and some jewelers may even include them for free. They are a good option if you are hesitant to resize your ring permanently, as they can be easily removed.

If you are considering adding sizing beads to your gold wedding band, it is recommended to consult a reputable jeweler who can assess the ring's material and condition to determine the best method for resizing.

Adding a ring guard

When choosing a ring guard, it is important to select one that complements the design of your existing ring. The guard should enhance the beauty of your ring, rather than detract from it. Some ring guards feature intricate details, such as pave diamonds or curved styles, that add a touch of elegance to your set.

One of the benefits of using a ring guard is that it can be easily removed if you decide you no longer need it. Additionally, a ring guard can help to protect your ring from slipping or twisting on your finger. However, it is important to note that stacking multiple rings together may cause light scratching due to the friction between the bands.

If you are unsure about whether to use a ring guard, it is advisable to consult a reputable jeweller. They can assess your ring's material, design, and condition to determine if a ring guard is the best option for resizing your gold wedding band.

Ring shank replacement

The first step in ring shank replacement is to assess the damage. If the ring has only a small cut, the jeweler will solder the shank back together. However, if a large portion of the shank is missing, the repair becomes more complicated. In some cases, the entire shank may need to be replaced.

The next step is to determine if the ring needs to be resized. If the ring was removed due to being too tight, it will need to be sized up to avoid further issues. The thickness of the existing shank is also important, as a thin band can cause problems when sizing up. The jeweler adds metal to increase the ring size, but if the original shank is too thin, the final product may not be durable enough and could crumple under pressure.

The cost of ring shank replacement depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, the number of sizes being adjusted, and the type of metal used. The thicker the replacement shank, the higher the cost. Additionally, the assembly work required, such as cutting, attaching the new shank, and finishing, will impact the final price.

Adding a ring sizer

• Take the tip of the ring sizer and push it through the buckle to make a loop.
• Put the loop on your finger.
• Pull the end of the belt to tighten the loop around your finger.
• The sizer must be able to come on and off your finger. You should feel resistance when sliding it past your knuckle, but it should be able to come on and off. If this is possible, the ring fits.
• To read your finger size, look at the arrow on the buckle. The line on the right edge of a number indicates a full size, while the line on the left edge of a number indicates a half size.

Some common mistakes to avoid when using a ring sizer include:

• Squeezing the ring sizer too tight onto your finger.
• Not calculating the size for the correct thickness.
• Measuring your fingers when you are sick, have swollen or cut fingers, are pregnant, or have moisturiser on your fingers.
• Failing to consult with a jeweller if the ring sizer cannot slide over your knuckles without changing sizes.

Frequently asked questions