Resizing Your Wedding Ring: Is It Possible?

Wedding rings are often loaded with sentimental value, so it's important to find a jeweler you can trust when it comes to resizing. While resizing is a common practice, it's not always possible, and the time it takes varies depending on the type of ring and the jeweler. Some rings, such as those made of tungsten or titanium, cannot be resized due to the hardness of the metal. For rings that can be resized, the process can be completed in as little as a few hours or up to several weeks. The complexity of the ring and the type of resizing needed also play a role in the time and cost of the process. A simple resizing can cost as little as $20, while more complicated jobs may cost a few hundred dollars. When choosing a jeweler, it's recommended to opt for a small local business instead of a chain jewelry store, as they can often perform the resizing on-site and provide more personalized service.

How to find a trustworthy jeweller

Yes, you can get your wedding ring resized. However, finding a trustworthy jeweller to resize your wedding ring can be a daunting task, especially if your ring is a family heirloom with significant monetary and sentimental value. Here are some tips to help you find a reputable and reliable jeweller:

Ask for Personal Recommendations:

Word-of-mouth referrals from friends, family, or colleagues can be a great way to find a trustworthy jeweller. Ask around your circle, especially those who have recently gotten married or have experience with jewellery repairs. Their first-hand accounts can provide valuable insights into the quality of work and customer service offered by a particular jeweller.

Online Reviews:

In addition to personal recommendations, online reviews can be a helpful tool. Look for reviews on specialised jewellery forums or websites, as general review sites may not provide accurate assessments from knowledgeable customers. For instance, consider checking forums like Pricescope for more informed opinions and advice.

Independent Jewellers:

Opt for independent, local jewellers instead of mall or chain jewellers. Independent jewellers often provide better quality work at more reasonable prices. They are also more likely to offer personalised services and take the time to address your concerns.

Reputable Jewellers' Practices:

When choosing a jeweller, ensure they have transparent information about their repair processes, care, and practices. A reputable jeweller will be open about their methods and should not hesitate to perform the work in front of you if requested. You should also be able to leave your ring with them without worrying about potential stone-swapping or other issues.

Specialist Jewellers:

If your ring is an antique or a family heirloom, consider taking it to an estate jeweller who specialises in antique jewellery. They will have the expertise to handle, clean, and refurbish older pieces while also providing an accurate appraisal for insurance purposes.

Get Multiple Quotes:

Before committing to a jeweller, get quotes from several professionals. This will allow you to interact with them, assess their facilities, and get a sense of their work without any obligations.

Remember, a trustworthy jeweller will understand and respect the value you attach to your ring. They should be transparent, skilled, and willing to address any concerns you may have throughout the resizing process.

How to tell if your ring is the wrong size

It is important to get the right ring size, especially for something as significant as a wedding ring. While it is possible to get a ring resized, it is best to avoid the stress and get it right the first time. Here are some ways to tell if your ring is the wrong size:

Slipping and sliding

If your ring moves around a lot, it is probably too big. Small gestures and movements should not send your ring flying. A well-fitted ring should stay put over the knuckle.

Swollen ring finger

If your daily ring leaves your finger swollen, it is likely too small. A ring that is too tight can even cause the finger to bulge or cut off circulation.

Difficult to take off

While it is normal to have some resistance, you shouldn't have to work to take off your ring. It should be loose enough to slide over your knuckle with some ease.

The ring spins around easily

A ring that spins around very easily on your finger is likely too big.

The ring won't go over your knuckle

If your ring is extremely difficult to get over your knuckle, or won't go over at all, it is too small.

Indent on the finger

A ring that leaves an indent on the finger after it has been removed is too tight.

There are many factors that can affect your ring size, such as the time of day, temperature, and even the weather. Your fingers are smaller in the early morning and in cold weather, and they can become swollen when you are overheated. Weight gain or loss, pregnancy, medication, and medical conditions can also cause changes in your ring size. It is recommended that you measure your ring size multiple times throughout the day to get an accurate reading.

How long does resizing take?

The time it takes to resize a wedding ring depends on several factors, including the type of ring, the complexity of the resizing process, and the jeweler performing the service.

The Type of Ring

The metal of the ring plays a significant role in determining the time required for resizing. Rings made of gold, silver, or platinum are generally easier to resize compared to those made of stainless steel, titanium, or tungsten. For example, stainless steel has an extremely high melting point, and resizing it requires specialized machinery that local jewelers may not have on hand. Similarly, titanium and tungsten are very hard metals that are challenging for jewelers to manipulate and resize.

Additionally, the design of the ring is a crucial factor. For instance, eternity bands with gemstones set all around the band cannot be resized because there is no bare metal for the jeweler to work with. On the other hand, rings with simpler designs and plain bands are typically easier and quicker to resize.

Complexity of Resizing

The extent of resizing required will also influence the time taken. Minor adjustments, such as increasing or decreasing the ring size by a quarter or half, can often be accomplished more swiftly. However, significant changes, such as resizing by more than half a size, may necessitate more intricate procedures. For instance, if the ring needs to be enlarged by more than half a size, the jeweler might need to cut the band and add extra metal, which is a more complex and time-consuming process.

The Jeweler's Service

The choice of jeweler can significantly impact the turnaround time for resizing. Small local jewelers often have an on-site workshop and can offer quicker services, sometimes even completing the resizing within a day or two. In contrast, chain jewelry stores or mall-based jewelers typically have to ship the ring to an off-site workshop, which can add one to two weeks to the overall process.

In conclusion, the time required to resize a wedding ring can vary from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the factors mentioned above. It is always advisable to consult with a professional and reputable jeweler, who can provide an accurate estimate of the time and cost involved in resizing your ring.

What type of rings can't be resized?

While resizing rings is a common practice, there are some types of rings that cannot be resized. This is due to the material of the ring, the complexity of the ring design, or the number of stones on the band.

Rings made of tungsten, for example, are extremely difficult to resize due to the hardness of the metal. Stainless steel and titanium rings are also challenging to resize for the same reason, and titanium rings, in particular, require a great deal of effort.

Eternity bands, which have a circle of small stones all the way around the ring, are also impossible to resize. This is because resizing an eternity band would damage the continuity of the stones. Tension rings, which hold a diamond or gemstone in place with pressure, also cannot be resized as this would affect the structural strength of the ring.

Pave rings, which have small stones or diamonds set around the band, can only be resized by a size at most. Similarly, vintage rings with many stones or diamonds cannot be resized as the stones run along the side of the band and cannot be cut.

Additionally, resizing rings with delicate gemstones can be challenging as the gemstones may need to be removed and reset during the process. This can cost up to $200.

How much does resizing cost?

The cost of resizing a wedding ring can vary depending on several factors, including the type of metal, the complexity of the job, and the location of the jeweller. In general, resizing a ring can range anywhere from $20 to $450 or more.

Metal Type

The type of metal used in the ring is a significant factor in determining the price of resizing. Some metals, such as yellow gold, sterling silver, and platinum, are easier to resize and therefore tend to be less expensive. On the other hand, metals like rose gold, white gold, and titanium are more challenging to work with and may incur higher costs.

Size

Resizing a ring to make it larger usually costs more than making it smaller. This is because increasing the ring size requires additional metal, which contributes to the overall cost. Decreasing the ring size is generally cheaper, as it does not require extra metal.

Complexity

The complexity of the job can also affect the price. For example, if the ring has multiple stones, the jeweller will need to check and tighten them during the resizing process, which adds to the labour cost. Additionally, certain ring designs may require more intricate work, increasing the overall price.

Location

The location of the jeweller can also impact the cost of resizing. Prices can vary depending on the region and the specific jeweller chosen. It is always a good idea to get quotes from multiple jewellers and compare their services and prices before making a decision.

Frequently asked questions