How Wedding Bands Can Be Resized To Fit Perfectly

Wedding bands are a symbol of love and commitment, but as time passes, people often find that their rings no longer fit comfortably. This can be due to weight changes or fluctuations in finger size. Fortunately, resizing a wedding band is a common practice and can be done in most cases. The process depends on the material and design of the ring, and it's important to consult a professional jeweller to determine the best approach. While some methods are more complex and costly than others, resizing can ensure a snug and comfortable fit for the wearer.

Ring stretching

Stretching a ring can compromise its structure and weaken the metal, so it is not recommended for many rings. However, if the ring is a simple design without any stones, it is possible to stretch it at home using a ring stretcher tool or a steel mandrel.

To use a ring stretcher, first, slide the hollow bottom of the stretcher into its base. Then, place the ring around the hollow mandrel and insert the pin. Use a rawhide hammer to gently tap the top of the stretcher. Check the size of the ring by trying it on or using a ring mandrel. If it is not yet the correct size, hammer the ring again.

Alternatively, a steel mandrel can be used to stretch a ring. Place the ring on the mandrel at the narrow end, and tap it with a rawhide hammer at the top of the ring, rotating as you tap to ensure an even application. Flip the ring over and tap the other side, as the tapered shape of the mandrel can cause the ring to stretch unevenly. Continue this process until the ring is the correct size.

It is important to note that stretching a ring can be risky, as it puts stress on the metal and may cause it to snap. Therefore, it is recommended to seek the help of an experienced jeweller to resize a ring, especially if it has intricate details or precious stones.

Sizing beads

The sizing beads fill the gap between your finger and the ring, allowing you to wear it at the right size without fear of it falling off. They are also a good solution for people with large or swollen knuckles due to arthritis, as they leave enough space for the ring to fit over the knuckle while minimising the spacious fit when worn.

It's important to note that sizing beads may not be suitable for all types of metals. For example, they cannot be used on ceramic carbide, tungsten, or titanium rings because these metals do not react to the soldering process. Additionally, certain coloured coatings on bands may change colour or react oddly to the soldering process.

Ring guards

When choosing a ring guard, it is important to select one that is slightly larger than your finger size. This will ensure that both the ring guard and your wedding band fit comfortably and can be worn every day. Ring guards are available in a variety of materials, including sterling silver, gold, and platinum. They can also be purchased with or without additional stones, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite.

One option for those looking for a ring guard is to purchase from a jewellery store or online retailer. Etsy and Amazon offer a wide variety of ring guards at different price points, with some offering customisation and personalisation options. Many of these products have positive reviews, indicating that they are a good option for those looking to resize their rings without altering the original band.

It is important to note that, while ring guards can be a great option for resizing your ring, they may not work for all ring styles. Adorned bands, eternity bands, and tungsten or titanium bands may be difficult to resize using a ring guard. In these cases, it may be necessary to explore other resizing options, such as stretching or soldering additional metal onto the ring.

Ring shank replacement

The first step in ring shank replacement is assessing the damage. If the ring has a small cut, it may only need to be soldered back together. However, if a large portion of the shank is missing, the repair will be more complicated. The jeweler will also need to determine if the ring needs to be resized and if the existing shank is thin, as this can cause issues when sizing up.

The next step is to find a replacement shank that matches the metal and colour of the original ring. The thickness of the shank will also affect the price, with thicker shanks requiring more metal and therefore being more costly. The width of the shank is typically 3mm, but can vary depending on the design of the ring.

Once the replacement shank has been sourced, the jeweler will cut away the old shank and attach the new one. They will then finish the piece by cutting off any excess metal, shaping and polishing the ring to ensure that it looks uniform and sleek.

Soldering and polishing

Soldering:

Soldering is a technique used to fuse two pieces of metal together. In the context of wedding bands, soldering can be done to enlarge the ring by adding an attached matching piece. This process is often performed by skilled jewellers and involves the following steps:

• Cutting: The ring is carefully cut to create an opening where the additional metal will be inserted.
• Metal insertion: A piece of matching metal is added to the ring. The type of metal used will depend on the original material of the ring, such as gold, silver, or platinum.
• Soldering: A filler metal is melted to bond the new piece of metal to the original ring. This process creates a strong and seamless joint.
• Stone resetting: If the ring has precious stones, they may need to be removed and reset after soldering to ensure they remain secure.

Polishing:

Polishing is a crucial step in the ring enlargement process as it helps to restore the ring's original brilliance and create a uniform finish. Here's how it's typically done:

• Seam removal: Artisans use specialised tools and techniques to eliminate any visible seams or joints created during the soldering process.
• Polishing techniques: Various polishing methods can be employed, such as buffing, tumbling, or electroplating, to smooth out any imperfections and enhance the ring's shine.
• Final inspection: The jeweller will carefully inspect the ring to ensure that the enlargement and polishing processes have been successful and that the ring meets the desired standards.

It's important to note that soldering and polishing require precision and expertise to ensure the ring's integrity and beauty are maintained. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult experienced jewellers for such modifications.

Frequently asked questions