Downsizing Wedding Bands: Is It Right For You?

There are many reasons why someone would want to downsize their wedding band. It could be because of weight loss or weight gain, or perhaps they want to wear the ring on another finger. Whatever the reason, resizing is a common procedure and can be done on most ring types. However, some rings cannot be resized due to their metal composition or design. For example, eternity bands, tungsten, and titanium rings are challenging to resize.

The cost of resizing a ring depends on the type of metal and the complexity of the process. Simple resizing typically costs around $20, while more intricate jobs can exceed $100. The process involves cutting out a small portion of the band, soldering the ends back together, and polishing the ring to restore its original appearance. This procedure can be done up to two sizes larger or smaller without causing too much stress on the metal.

It is recommended to consult a professional jeweler to determine the best course of action for resizing a wedding band. They will be able to assess the ring's metal type, thickness, and design to ensure that the resizing can be done safely and effectively.

When should I resize my wedding band?

There are several factors to consider when deciding if and when to resize your wedding band. Firstly, the fit of the ring is crucial. If your ring is uncomfortably tight or too loose and slips off easily, it is likely time to consider resizing. Ideally, your wedding band should fit snugly yet comfortably on your finger, requiring a bit of effort to pull it off.

Secondly, the type of metal your ring is made of will influence the resizing process. Some metals, like yellow gold, are typically easier and more affordable to resize due to their malleability. In contrast, metals such as rose gold can be more challenging and costly as they have a higher tendency to crack during the process. Other metals like tungsten and titanium are extremely hard to work with and may not be resizable by most jewellers.

Thirdly, the complexity of the ring design matters. Plain metal bands are generally simpler and cheaper to resize compared to intricate designs with numerous jewels or certain types of settings. For example, eternity bands with stones encircling the entire band may not be resizable due to the lack of bare metal to work with.

Lastly, the amount of resizing needed will impact the decision. Minor adjustments of half a size may be more straightforward and economical, while larger changes of multiple sizes can be more challenging and costly. It is worth noting that resizing a ring multiple times can weaken the band and potentially damage its integrity.

If you are unsure about the need to resize your wedding band, it is advisable to consult a reputable jeweller who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance based on their expertise.

How much does it cost to resize a wedding band?

The cost of resizing a wedding band depends on several factors, including the type of metal, complexity of the job, number of stones, and the jeweler's location. Generally, it is more expensive to make a ring larger as it involves adding metal, whereas making a ring smaller only requires cutting and soldering. The thicker the ring, the higher the resizing cost will be.

Resizing a ring typically ranges from $20 to $200 or more. For example, Fox Fine Jewelry charges $84 to resize a ring, while another user paid $150 to resize a platinum ring in the UK. In Boston, one person paid $150 to resize a palladium ring, while another paid $60 to resize a white gold ring. In Toronto, resizing, cleaning, and polishing a ring cost $90. In eastern Ontario, Canada, the general range is $50-$150. Blue Nile provides estimates for resizing services, which can be helpful to get an idea of the cost.

It is recommended to consult with a reputable jeweler to determine the exact cost of resizing a wedding band, as they can assess the specific ring and provide an accurate quote.

What's the process of resizing a wedding band?

The process of resizing a wedding band depends on the type of metal and the complexity of the ring. Firstly, it is important to determine whether the ring needs to be made smaller or larger.

Making a Ring Smaller

To make a ring smaller, a jeweller will typically cut out a piece of the band and then solder the ends back together. The ring is then cleaned and polished to remove any imperfections from the resizing process. This process is intricate but relatively simple. The metal must be heated to a perfect temperature—if it is too hot, the heat can change the chemical components of the metal.

Making a Ring Larger

Making a ring larger is a little more complicated. If the ring only needs to be increased by half a size, the jeweller will stretch the metal. If the ring needs to be increased by more than half a size, the jeweller will cut the band and add an extra piece of metal. The additional metal will be soldered to the ring, and then the ring will be cleaned and polished.

Metals That Can Be Resized

Platinum, gold, and silver are the best metals for resizing as they can be bent and manipulated. Jewellers typically will not resize rings made of titanium, tungsten, cobalt, tungsten carbide, stainless steel, or rose gold. These metals are either too hard or prone to breakage.

Eternity Bands

Eternity bands are particularly difficult to resize as they have stones set all the way around the band, leaving no bare metal to work with. If resizing is possible, it will be very costly.

Timing and Cost

The timing of the resizing depends on the complexity of the ring and the workload of the jeweller. Simple resizing can take as little as 10 minutes or half an hour, while more complex rings can take up to 5 or 6 hours. In addition, if the ring is taken to a chain jewellery store, it will need to be shipped offsite, adding to the time. Most rings can be resized within a couple of weeks. The cost of resizing also depends on the complexity, with simple resizing costing around $20 and more complicated jobs costing over $100.

What types of rings can be resized?

The resizing process depends on the type of ring you have. Rings made of gold, silver, or platinum can generally be resized, but there are exceptions. Rings with intricate designs or continuous patterns of diamonds or gemstones are difficult to resize. This includes eternity bands, which have gemstones that go all the way around the ring, and tension rings, which hold a gemstone in place with pressure from both ends.

Rings made of certain materials cannot be resized. This includes titanium, cobalt, tungsten carbide, stainless steel, and sometimes rose gold. Non-metallic rings, such as those made of resin, crystal, or ceramic, also cannot be resized. Plated metals, like those used in costume jewellery, are prone to flaking during the resizing process. Enamel-coated jewellery is not recommended for resizing either.

What should I do if my ring can't be resized?

If your ring cannot be resized, you have a few options. Firstly, you could wear it on a different finger. Alternatively, you could look into ring guards or inserts, which can be added to your ring to reduce its size and help it stay on your finger. However, these may damage the band over time and are not a permanent solution. If you're set on resizing your ring, you could also consider purchasing a new ring of the same design in the correct size. This may be a better option if your ring is particularly complex and resizing it would be costly.

Frequently asked questions