Deborah Chan
Wedding rings can become bent due to regular wear and tear, physical pressure, or because the ring size no longer fits. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix a bent wedding ring. The method used depends on the type of metal, the severity of the bend, and the presence of gems or other designs. Soft metals like gold, silver, and copper are easier to reshape, while harder metals like tungsten and stainless steel may be impossible to reshape. For slightly bent rings, a mandrel and mallet can be used to gently tap the ring back into shape. More severe bends may require soldering or shank replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming. To prevent further damage, it is recommended to have the ring professionally serviced or resized if home repair attempts are unsuccessful.
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What You'll Learn
- Ring reshaping: Rounding out a bent ring with a mandrel and hammer
- Ring shank repair: Soldering or replacing the back of the ring
- Gem settings: Get professional help to avoid damaging stones
- Metal type: Soft metals are easier to reshape; hard metals may be impossible
- Ring size: A poor fit can cause bending; resize for better comfort
Ring reshaping: Rounding out a bent ring with a mandrel and hammer
Bent rings are a common occurrence, often caused by regular wear and tear, or a poor fit. Fortunately, it is a simple process to round out a bent ring using a mandrel and hammer. This process is known as ring reshaping.
A mandrel is a tapered, cylindrical rod, usually made of steel. It is used to shape, form and resize rings and other circular objects. They come in various sizes, often marked with ring size measurements. When using a mandrel, it is important to ensure it is placed securely and will not move during the repair process.
To begin the ring reshaping process, place the ring on the mandrel until it cannot go any further. You can use your fingers to press down on the surface of the ring, moulding it to the circular shape of the mandrel. If the ring is only slightly bent, you may be able to mould it with your fingers alone.
If the ring is more bent out of shape, you will need to use a hammer. Place the flattened part of the ring over the mandrel and gently tap only on that section to push it back out. This process can be tricky, so it is important to be careful and avoid getting your fingers in the way of the hammer. Use a lighter touch at first and gradually increase the strength of your taps as needed. Check the ring's shape regularly throughout the process.
Finally, inspect the ring for any remaining imperfections. Ensure the ring's shoulder and shank are free from dents or damage. If you are satisfied with the adjustments, remove the ring from the mandrel.
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Ring shank repair: Soldering or replacing the back of the ring
Ring shank repair is a general term used to describe several different repairs involving the back of the ring, also known as the shank. This service is best used for bent rings that have an overly thin or cut shank.
Ring Shank Repair: Soldering
If your ring has a small cut, it can be soldered back together. The jeweller will use a soft metal alloy that matches the ring's metal to "glue" the broken components back together. Soldering is fairly simple and takes 1-2 days to complete. If your ring is made of tungsten or ceramic, it cannot be soldered and is essentially irreparable.
Ring Shank Repair: Replacing the Back of the Ring
If the metal of your ring is very weak, a jeweller may recommend a shank replacement. This is also recommended if your ring has a thin shank, or if there is not enough metal at the back of the ring to size it up or down. The jeweller will cut off the back of the ring and replace it with a piece of the same metal that is thicker and sturdier. A half shank ring repair cost will not be as high as a full-shank replacement, as the price is proportional to the amount of extra metal required.
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Gem settings: Get professional help to avoid damaging stones
If your wedding ring has gem settings, it is highly recommended to have it professionally repaired rather than attempting to fix it yourself. This is because a home repair could risk damaging the settings or knocking out small precious stones. The type of metal in the ring will also determine the ease of repair. Metals like copper, brass, nickel, silver, and gold are fairly malleable, while titanium, tungsten, and tungsten carbide are more difficult or even impossible to reshape. If you're unsure about the type of metal in your ring, it's best to consult a jeweler for assistance before attempting any repair.
When bringing a bent ring to a jeweler, they will first examine the shank, or the band of the ring. They will check if it is mostly intact, if there are any cracks, and if the metal is thinning in certain areas. This initial assessment will help determine the appropriate repair method. If the ring is mostly intact but simply out of shape, the jeweler will use a technique called ring reshaping to restore its circular shape. This involves placing the ring onto a sizing mandrel and hammering it back into shape.
Ring reshaping is a common and straightforward process for jewelers, and the cost varies depending on the type of metal. Basic silver ring reshaping starts at around $28, while gold, platinum, and stainless steel may be more expensive. If the ring has gem settings, the jeweler will need to reset the stones after reshaping to ensure they are secure.
In some cases, the ring may require more extensive repairs, such as shank soldering or shank replacement. Shank soldering is necessary when the ring has been cut or has a gap at the back. This process involves soldering the cut shut, polishing the area, and restoring the ring to its original closed structure. Shank replacement, on the other hand, is typically recommended when the ring is severely damaged or the client wants to change the design. This involves removing the front design and attaching it to a new band.
While it may be tempting to attempt a home repair, seeking professional help is the best option for rings with gem settings. Professionals have the expertise and tools to reshape the ring and secure the gem settings without causing any damage. They can also advise on any additional repairs or adjustments needed to ensure the ring's longevity.
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Metal type: Soft metals are easier to reshape; hard metals may be impossible
The metal type of your wedding ring is an important factor in determining whether you can fix a bend. Soft metals, such as gold, silver, copper, brass, nickel, and platinum, are easier to reshape and repair. For example, gold is a popular choice for wedding rings due to its lustrous finish and incredible malleability. An ounce of gold can be stretched into a thin wire that measures five miles. However, this softness also makes it prone to scratches and bending, especially in its pure form. Similarly, sterling silver, an affordable and glamorous option, is also on the softer side and requires regular maintenance. Platinum, known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties, is another soft metal that can be reshaped.
On the other hand, hard metals like tungsten, tungsten carbide, and stainless steel are more challenging or even impossible to reshape. Stainless steel, for instance, is very tough and heavy, making it uncomfortable for some wearers. While some jewelers may attempt to reshape it, the process is often difficult and may not be feasible. Cobalt, a white lustrous metal that has recently gained popularity, is another hard metal known for its scratch resistance and non-corrosive properties. Titanium is another metal that falls into this category.
If your ring is made of a soft metal, you may be able to fix a slight bend by placing it on a mandrel and using your fingers or a soft mallet to mold it back into shape. For more severe bends, you can tap the ring with a mallet, gradually increasing the strength of your taps. If the ring has gem settings, it is recommended to have it professionally repaired to avoid damaging the settings or knocking out stones.
In summary, soft metals like gold, silver, and platinum offer advantages in terms of malleability and repairability, but they may require more maintenance to prevent scratches and bending. Hard metals like tungsten and stainless steel are more durable and resistant to damage, but they are challenging to reshape or repair if bent. When deciding how to fix a bent wedding ring, it is essential to consider the metal type and the severity of the bend to determine the best course of action.
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Ring size: A poor fit can cause bending; resize for better comfort
A poorly fitting ring is a common cause of bent rings. A ring that fits well shouldn't be too tight or too loose. It should be able to slide over your knuckle with relative ease, but with a little extra push, and fit snugly at the base of your finger without feeling uncomfortably tight. It should be able to move in both a clockwise and counterclockwise direction, and spin with a little effort.
If your ring is too tight, you may experience redness, indentation marks, and tingling fingers. In more serious cases, a tight ring can restrict blood flow, so it's important to address the issue promptly. If your ring is too loose, it may be more prone to sliding off your finger.
There are several factors that can cause your fingers to swell or shrink, which can affect how your ring fits. For example, high humidity and heat can cause finger swelling, while cold temperatures can make fingers shrink. Other factors include salt intake, alcohol consumption, and air travel.
If your ring is too tight or too loose, consider having it professionally resized. A jeweler can adjust the ring up to two sizes larger or smaller. If your ring is too big, they will cut out a piece of the band and fuse the ends together. If it's too small, they can stretch the ring or cut the band and fill the gap with an extra piece of metal.
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Frequently asked questions
You can fix a bent ring at home using inexpensive jewelry repair tools, including a tapered cylinder called a mandrel and a soft mallet. Place the ring on the mandrel and use your fingers to press down and mold it to the circular shape. If that doesn't work, use a jewelry mallet to lightly tap the sides of the ring on the mandrel.
If your ring has gem settings or is made of a hard metal like titanium, tungsten, or tungsten carbide, it is preferable to have it professionally repaired to avoid damaging the settings or stones. Check your warranty to see if the repair is covered.
If your ring is severely bent or damaged, you may need to consider a full shank replacement, where the front design of the ring is removed and a new band is attached. This option can be time-consuming and expensive, so it is recommended to get a quote from a professional jeweler before proceeding.
