How Wedding Bands Can Be Resized To Fit Better

Wedding bands can be resized to fit your finger. The process involves widening or narrowing the band, and it can be done by hand or machine. However, resizing a ring is a delicate procedure that should only be performed by a seasoned jeweller. There are risks involved, and the ring could be damaged or weakened in the process. It's also important to note that some rings, such as those with very intricate designs or certain types of metal, cannot be resized.

Making a wedding band bigger by adding extra metal to the band

Consult a Professional Jeweler

It is always best to consult a professional and reputable jeweler, especially the original jeweler who sold you the ring. If that is not possible, ask for referrals from friends or family and check their reviews online. A professional jeweler will assess the ring's material, design, and condition to determine the best method for resizing.

Ring Stretching

Ring stretching is a process that uses a ring stretcher tool to expand the metal of the ring. This method is typically used for rings made of softer metals like gold or silver. However, it is important to note that this process can weaken the metal, so it should only be done by a professional.

Ring Shank Replacement

If your wedding band is made of a more durable metal, such as platinum or titanium, a jeweler may suggest replacing the entire shank or band with a larger one. This method is more costly and time-consuming but may be necessary for more complex ring designs.

Adding a Ring Sizer or Guard

A ring sizer or guard is a small piece of metal placed inside the ring band to create a tighter fit. The jeweler can add or remove these pieces to adjust the size without permanently altering the ring. This method can be a temporary solution until you can get your ring professionally resized.

Adding Extra Metal to the Band

If your ring needs to be made significantly bigger, the jeweler will likely need to cut the band and add a piece of metal to expand its circumference. This process, known as ring shanking, involves carefully fitting and soldering the new piece of metal to the existing band. Finally, the surface is smoothed and polished to blend the seams seamlessly.

It is important to note that not all rings can be made bigger, especially those with intricate designs or stones that go all the way around the band. Additionally, the cost of resizing will depend on the complexity of the task and the type of metal used.

Stretching the ring as a method to make it bigger

Stretching is a method of resizing a ring without cutting it. It is a relatively uncomplicated task that requires the right tools. However, it is important to note that this method can weaken the ring's structural integrity and possibly distort its shape. It is also worth mentioning that stretching is only suitable for plain bands and not rings with stones or engravings.

Ring Stretcher Tool

Place the hollow bottom of the ring stretcher into its base. Then, put 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. Repeat the process until you achieve the desired size.

Steel Mandrel

A steel mandrel is a tapered rod used by jewellers for sizing rings. Slide the ring onto the mandrel at the narrow end. Hold the mandrel firmly and tap the ring with a wooden mallet, rawhide hammer, or jeweller's hammer on all sides evenly. Rotate the ring as you tap to ensure even pressure. Check the size and continue tapping until you reach the desired size.

Ring Mandrel with Bench Vise

This setup allows for hands-free manipulation of the ring. The mandrel can move a full 360 degrees, allowing you to tap the ring at any angle. It fits ring sizes from 1 to 15.

Stone Set Ring Stretcher

This device is designed for rings with mounted diamonds or gemstones. It works by rolling the metal part of the ring under extreme pressure to quickly change the size. Mount the machine to a solid surface and select the appropriate die size. Tighten the handle and roll it back and forth to stretch the ring.

It is important to note that stretching a ring should not be done more than half a size bigger. Stretching the ring further will weaken the metal, and it may even break. If a larger size adjustment is needed, it is best to consult a professional jeweller, who may use alternative methods such as cutting the ring and adding metal.

Making a wedding band smaller by cutting out a piece of the band

Making a wedding band smaller is a fairly straightforward process compared to making it larger. When resizing a wedding band to be smaller, a jeweler will typically perform the following steps:

Firstly, they will cut out a small portion of the band. The amount cut out will depend on how much smaller the ring needs to be. Then, the remaining pieces of the band are joined back together by soldering them. After restoring the circular shape of the ring, the jeweler will clean any oxidation caused during the soldering process. Finally, the ring is polished to smoothen its surface, ensuring there are no visible signs of soldering lines.

It is important to note that resizing a wedding band can be tricky, especially if it has intricate designs or delicate gemstones. In such cases, it is crucial to consult an expert jeweler with experience in ring resizing. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action to ensure the ring is resized without causing any damage to its structure or appearance.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that there are alternative methods to achieve a better fit without permanently altering the ring. For example, ring guards or plastic resizers can be used as a temporary solution if the ring is only slightly too big. These options are particularly useful for delicate rings that cannot be easily resized.

The cost of resizing a wedding band

Metal Type:

• Platinum: Platinum rings are challenging to work with and require specialised tools, making them the most expensive to resize. Resizing a platinum ring can cost around $100 at the lower end and up to $300 for intricate designs. If you're reducing the size, expect to pay around $60-$100 due to the difficulty of working with this metal.
• White Gold: White gold rings are more expensive in terms of material costs but are easier to work with than platinum. The rhodium plating on white gold will need to be redone after resizing, adding to the cost. The total resizing cost for a white gold ring is typically between $60 and $130.
• Yellow Gold: Yellow gold is a softer metal that is easier to work with, making it a more affordable option for resizing. The cost of resizing a yellow gold ring is usually in the range of $40 to $100.
• Sterling Silver: Resizing sterling silver rings is relatively inexpensive, with prices ranging from $20 to $40.

Complexity and Thickness:

The cost of resizing also depends on the complexity of the ring's design and the thickness of the band. Intricate designs, especially those with jewels or gemstones, will require more labour and possibly resetting the stones, increasing the cost. Thicker bands will also be more expensive to resize, as more material is needed.

Amount of Resizing:

Resizing a ring by a larger amount will generally cost more. Increasing the ring size typically involves adding extra metal, which incurs material and labour costs. On the other hand, reducing the ring size usually involves cutting and removing metal, making it a less expensive process.

Jeweller's Skill and Location:

The cost of resizing can also vary depending on the skill and location of the jeweller. Reputable jewellers with extensive experience may charge more for their services but can provide higher-quality work. Additionally, the geographical location of the jeweller can influence labour costs.

In summary, the cost of resizing a wedding band can range from as little as $20 for a simple resize of a sterling silver ring to over $300 for resizing a complex platinum ring. It is always advisable to consult with multiple jewellers, compare prices, and select a skilled and trusted professional for this task.

The time it takes to resize a wedding band

Type of Metal:

• Gold and Silver: Wedding bands made of gold or silver are usually quicker to resize and can often be completed within a short timeframe, sometimes even on the same day.
• Platinum, Palladium, and Tungsten: These metals are harder to work with and typically require specialized techniques and tools, resulting in a longer resizing process.

Ring Design and Details:

The complexity of the ring design can significantly impact the resizing time. A basic gold or silver band without any intricate details or stones can be resized quickly, sometimes within hours or a few days. However, if the ring has delicate jewels, intricate patterns, or filigree decorations, the resizing process can take longer, usually at least a week and up to two weeks.

Change in Size Required:

The magnitude of the size change also plays a role in the resizing time. Subtle adjustments that only require minimal tweaks by skilled professionals can often be completed in as little as 10-15 minutes. On the other hand, more significant size changes, especially those involving multiple sizes, will naturally take longer as artisans need to carefully remove or add excess material while preserving the ring's integrity.

In summary, the time required to resize a wedding band can vary from as little as 10-15 minutes for simple, minor adjustments to several weeks for complex designs or significant size changes. It's always best to consult with a professional jeweler to get an accurate estimate of the time and cost involved in resizing your specific wedding band.

Frequently asked questions