How To Stretch Your Gold Wedding Ring

Wedding rings are a symbol of love and commitment, but over time, people may find that their rings no longer fit comfortably. This could be due to weight gain, swelling, or changes in finger size. Luckily, gold wedding rings can be stretched to accommodate larger finger sizes. The process involves using a ring stretcher tool to expand the metal of the ring. This method is most effective for softer metals like gold, but it's important to note that it can weaken the metal, so it should only be done by a professional jeweler. Stretching a gold ring is generally simpler than other resizing methods, which may involve cutting into the ring and soldering additional metal. However, ring stretching may not be suitable for rings with intricate designs, as it could distort patterns, engravings, or certain types of metal.

Ring stretching vs. ring cutting

Ring resizing can be a stressful experience, especially if you have an emotional attachment to the ring and don't want to risk damaging it. If you're looking to resize your ring, you may have come across the terms "ring stretching" and "ring cutting". Here's a detailed comparison of the two methods to help you understand which option is best for your ring:

Ring Stretching:

Ring stretching is a process that involves using a ring-stretching machine or tool to expand or compress the metal of the ring. This method is typically used for plain bands made of softer metals like gold, silver, or platinum. The jeweler slips the ring onto a mandrel-like appendage of the machine, and a lever is used to crank the machine until the desired size is achieved. This method can be used to size the ring up or down by approximately one to two sizes.

Ring stretching is considered less invasive than ring cutting since it does not involve cutting into the metal. However, it is not suitable for all ring designs. Rings with stones, engravings, patterns, or enamel plating may be damaged by the stretching process. Additionally, the width and thickness of the ring may decrease during stretching, so it is not ideal if you want to maintain the original proportions of your ring.

Ring Cutting:

Ring cutting is the traditional method used by most jewelers to resize a ring. It involves cutting into the back of the ring, opening it up, and adding or removing metal to achieve the desired size. The jeweler measures the correct size by sliding the ring onto a mandrel. After making the necessary adjustments, the cut is soldered shut, and the ring is polished to remove any tool marks.

Ring cutting is more versatile than ring stretching and can be used for rings with intricate designs, stones, or engravings. It is also necessary for resizing rings by more than one or two sizes. However, it is a more invasive process that may not be suitable for those looking for a simple solution.

In conclusion, both ring stretching and ring cutting are effective methods for resizing rings. Ring stretching is best suited for plain bands made of softer metals and for minor size adjustments. On the other hand, ring cutting is a more versatile method that can accommodate intricate ring designs and larger size changes. When deciding between the two methods, it is important to consider the design and material of your ring, as well as the desired size adjustment. Consulting a reputable jeweler is essential to ensure the best approach for your precious ring.

Limitations of resizing

While resizing a ring is a common procedure, there are some limitations to the process. Here are some factors to consider:

Design Constraints

Rings with intricate designs or patterns may be difficult or impossible to resize without distorting their appearance. This includes rings with engravings, enamel work, plating, or non-circular shapes. For example, resizing an eternity ring with gemstones or diamonds around the entire band can be challenging without damaging the stones or altering the ring's original beauty.

Stone Settings

Rings with inset stones or delicate gems, such as opals, pearls, and emeralds, pose a risk during the resizing process. The gemstones and diamonds can become misaligned, or the settings may need to be altered to accommodate the new size. In some cases, the stones may need to be removed and reset correctly afterward.

Metal Type

The type of metal used in the ring also plays a role in the limitations of resizing. While gold, silver, and platinum bands can typically be stretched or cut to resize, certain metals like tungsten, ceramic carbide, titanium, and stainless steel are challenging or impossible to resize due to their material properties.

Size Limitations

There is a general rule of thumb that a ring can be modified up to a maximum of two sizes without compromising its structure. Attempting to resize a ring by more than two sizes can be difficult and expensive, and it may be necessary to add or remove a significant amount of metal, altering the ring's original design.

Jeweler Expertise

Not all jewelers are equipped or skilled enough to handle complex resizing jobs. It is essential to seek out an experienced and reputable jeweler who has expertise in jewelry repair and resizing. This is especially important for rings with intricate designs, delicate gems, or unique metal types.

Structural Integrity

Resizing a ring can affect its structural integrity, making it weaker at the joint or seam where the metal has been cut and soldered back together. In some cases, the ring may become thinner or narrower in certain sections, and there is a risk of the joint breaking in the future if improper soldering techniques are used.

Cost and Time

Resizing a ring can be a delicate and time-consuming process, and it may cost more than expected, especially if additional repairs or adjustments are required. It is important to select a reputable jeweler who will take the time to do the job impeccably and ensure the ring's quality and structural integrity.

Enlarging a ring

Ring Stretching

Ring stretching is a process that involves using a ring stretcher tool to expand the metal of the ring. This method is most effective for rings made of softer metals, such as gold, silver, or platinum. It is important to note that ring stretching is not suitable for rings with intricate designs, patterns, engravings, or stones, as these may be damaged or distorted in the process. Additionally, ring stretching can weaken the metal, so it should only be done by a professional jeweller.

Adding Sizing Beads

Sizing beads are small metal balls that can be soldered onto the inside of the ring band. These beads make the ring fit more snugly on the finger. If the ring is too tight, the jeweller can remove the beads to make the ring larger. This method is a good option for those with large knuckles, as it helps to reduce the gap between the ring and the finger.

Adding a Ring Guard

A ring guard is a small, thin piece of metal that is placed around the inside of the ring band. This method works best for rings with thin bands. The ring guard creates a tighter fit on the finger, making the ring effectively larger. The ring guard can be removed if the ring becomes too tight.

Ring Shank Replacement

For rings made of durable metals such as platinum or titanium, a jeweller may suggest replacing the entire shank (band) of the ring. This involves removing the original shank and replacing it with a new, larger one. This method is more expensive than other methods and is necessary for more complex ring designs.

Adding a Ring Sizer

A ring sizer is a small piece of metal placed inside the ring band to create a tighter fit. The jeweller can add or remove the sizer to adjust the size as needed. This method is best for rings with wider bands.

It is important to note that not all rings can be enlarged. Rings with designs that go all the way around the band, such as eternity bands, may not be able to be resized without compromising the design. Additionally, some metals, such as tungsten and titanium, are too tough to be manipulated and cannot be enlarged.

Reducing a ring's size

Gold wedding rings can be resized, and there are several methods for reducing the size of a ring. Here are some of the most common methods:

Sizing Beads

Small metal balls, known as sizing beads, can be soldered onto the inside of the ring band to make it fit more snugly on the finger. This method is often used for people with large knuckles as it reduces the gap between the ring and the finger.

Ring Guard

A ring guard is a small, thin piece of metal that is placed inside the ring band to make it tighter. This method is best for rings with thin bands. If the ring is too tight, the ring guard can be removed to make the ring larger.

Cutting and Soldering

A jeweller can cut a small piece of metal from the ring, and then solder and polish it to reduce the size. This method can be used for rings with precious stones as it holds them in place. After the ring is polished, there will be no visual signs of the procedure.

Ring Stretching Machine

A ring stretching machine can be used to make small adjustments to the size of a ring. The ring is placed into a ring-sized circular slot in the machine, and pressure is exerted to cause the ring to shrink. However, this method is not suitable for rings with intricate designs, patterns, or engravings, as these details may be distorted or damaged during the process.

It is important to note that resizing a ring may come with certain limitations and risks. For example, jewelers can typically only resize a ring by a maximum of one to two sizes in either direction. Additionally, some ring types, such as stainless steel rings or ornate rings with designs spanning the full circumference, may not be suitable for permanent resizing methods that require heat. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a reputable jeweler who can assess the ring's material, design, and condition to determine the best method for resizing.

Resizing time and cost

The time it takes to resize a gold wedding ring depends on the type of ring, the complexity of the resizing job, and the jeweler you are working with. A simple resizing job can be completed in as little as 10 minutes to half an hour, while more intricate designs or complicated jobs can take up to several weeks.

For gold rings, resizing typically involves stretching the metal, cutting and soldering, or adding metal to the band. Stretching is a quick process but can only increase the ring size by a quarter to half a size. Cutting and soldering or adding metal can increase the size by more than half a size but will take longer, typically between half an hour and three hours for simpler rings.

If you choose to work with a small local jeweler, you may be able to get your ring resized much more quickly, sometimes even within an hour or the same day, as they can do the work on-site. On the other hand, a chain jewelry store will likely need to ship your ring off-site for resizing, which can add one to two weeks to the turnaround time.

The cost of resizing a gold wedding ring can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the jeweler's rates. Simple resizing jobs can cost as little as $20, while more intricate or complicated work can cost a few hundred dollars.

It is important to note that resizing a gold wedding ring may weaken the metal, so it is always best to consult a professional jeweler who can assess the ring and determine the best method for resizing.

Frequently asked questions