Need to Resize Engagement Ring? You can resize an engagement ring, but it depends on the ring’s material, design, and size adjustment requirements. A professional jeweller can usually resize a band by either adding or removing metal, depending on whether you need to make the ring bigger or smaller. Below are key factors to consider before resizing your engagement ring.
Understanding Ring Resizing
Ring resizing is a common practice in the jewelry industry, allowing individuals to adjust the size of their ring to fit comfortably on their finger. Whether your ring feels too tight or too loose, resizing can help achieve the perfect fit. There are two primary methods of ring resizing: in-store resizing and special orders. Understanding these options can help you decide the best approach for your specific needs.
Material
Not all metals can be resized with ease. Gold and silver are relatively straightforward to adjust, while platinum can be more challenging due to its hardness and composition. Some contemporary metals, such as tungsten, cannot be resized at all, meaning a replacement may be necessary. White gold rings, particularly those plated with rhodium, will need re-plating after resizing to restore their original appearance. Understanding your ring’s metal composition is crucial in determining whether a resize is possible and how complex the process will be.
Design Complexity
The complexity of your ring’s design plays a crucial role in determining whether resizing is possible. Rings with intricate settings, such as diamonds on the shoulders or detailed engravings, may require additional work. If multiple stones are embedded in the band, adjustments can be more challenging and, in some cases, risky, as stone settings may shift during the process. Rings with pavé settings, channel-set diamonds, or full eternity bands may need more delicate resizing approaches, which can affect cost and time.
Ring Style
The thickness of the band can also affect resizing. Very thin bands may be more fragile and difficult to adjust, while extra-wide bands can require more extensive modifications. If your engagement ring is an antique or heirloom piece, resizing might require extra care to maintain its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Rings with filigree or hand-engraved details may require additional reworking to preserve their intricate designs. Ensuring that delicate craftsmanship is maintained is key when resizing older rings.
Size Adjustment Limits
Resizing is generally possible within a limit of two sizes up or down. If your ring needs to be adjusted by more than this, structural weaknesses may arise, potentially affecting the durability of the band, whether you need to make the ring smaller or larger. Simple solitaire rings are usually easier to resize, while intricate or multi-stone designs may need to be completely remade to achieve the correct fit. If you require a major size change, it may be worth considering a ring guard or a bespoke remake. Consulting an experienced jeweller can help determine the best approach for substantial size adjustments.
Time Frame for Resizing
For straightforward resizing, the process typically takes between 4-5 days in our workshop. This includes a thorough check to ensure all stones remain secure after the resizing and polishing are completed. If a jeweller quotes several weeks, they may be outsourcing the work to a different workshop, possibly in another country. More complex resizing, such as for antique rings or those with intricate settings, may take longer due to the precision required to maintain the ring’s integrity. If you need your ring resized urgently, we recommend contacting us in advance to check availability.
Where to Resize Your Engagement Ring
Whenever possible, we recommend returning to the jeweller from whom you purchased the ring, as many offer complimentary resizing services. If this is not an option or if they are unable to assist, contact Alan Bick for expert ring resizing services. We specialise in resizing engagement rings with precision and care, ensuring the perfect fit while maintaining the integrity of your ring. Our professional team can assess the structure and material of your ring and provide the most effective solution to resize your engagement ring safely. However, bear in mind that if a third-party jeweller alters your ring, the original warranty may become void.
In-Store Resizing vs. Special Orders
In-store resizing is a convenient option for those who need to adjust their ring size quickly. This process typically involves a jeweler assessing the ring and determining the best course of action to resize it. Depending on the complexity of the job, in-store resizing can usually be completed within a few days to a week. This method is ideal for straightforward adjustments and is often performed on-site, ensuring a faster turnaround.
Special orders, on the other hand, involve creating a custom ring size that is not readily available in-store. This process is more time-consuming, as the ring needs to be sent to a manufacturer or a specialized jeweler who can create the custom size. Special orders can take several weeks to complete, depending on the complexity of the design and the availability of materials. This method is often necessary for rings with intricate designs or those made from materials that are difficult to resize, such as titanium or zirconium.
It’s essential to note that not all rings can be resized, and some may require special orders. For example, rings with intricate designs or those made from certain materials may not be resizable. In such cases, a special order may be the only option to achieve the correct size.
Engagement Rings That Cannot Be Resized
While many engagement rings can be resized, there are some exceptions. Rings with intricate designs or internal structures that make resizing difficult or impossible are often not resizable. Additionally, rings made from certain materials, such as titanium, cobalt, tungsten carbide, and stainless steel, cannot be resized due to their prone-to-breakage properties.
Rings with rare gemstones or complex settings may also be challenging to resize. For example, eternity bands with diamonds or other gemstones that go all the way around the ring may require additional gems to be added or removed, making the resizing process more complicated. These designs often necessitate a bespoke approach to maintain their aesthetic and structural integrity.
Rose gold engagement rings may also be difficult to work with during the resizing process, as this metal type can be prone to cracking. In such cases, a reputable jeweler may recommend a special order or an alternative solution to ensure the ring maintains its beauty and durability.
It’s crucial to consult with a reputable jeweler to determine whether an engagement ring can be resized. They can assess the ring’s design and material to provide guidance on the best course of action. By working with an experienced professional, you can ensure that your engagement ring is resized safely and effectively, preserving its sentimental and monetary value.
How is an Engagement Ring Resized?
Resizing a Ring to a Smaller Size
If your engagement ring is too large, a jeweller will cut out a small section of the band, reshape it, and then carefully solder it back together. The ring is then polished to remove any visible seams, and any stones are checked to ensure they remain secure. This method is the most common way to downsize a ring while maintaining its strength and aesthetics.
Resizing a Ring to a Larger Size
If you need your ring to be larger, a jeweller can stretch the band slightly if only a minor increase is needed. However, for a more significant size increase, additional metal will be added to the band to expand it. The new section is seamlessly soldered into place and polished to match the original design. Stretching is only possible for simple bands, while adding metal is the preferred method for most engagement rings.
How to Determine Your Ring Size
If you are unsure about your ring size, you can use a professional ring sizer, visit a jeweller for an accurate measurement, or use an online printable ring size chart. Keep in mind that finger size can fluctuate due to temperature and humidity, so it’s best to measure at different times of the day. Having an accurate measurement before purchasing or resizing your ring ensures a perfect fit and avoids unnecessary adjustments.
FAQs About Resizing an Engagement Ring
