If you have ever bought a new ring before you will know that they come in a range of different sizes, both for men and women. These sizes exist because everyone is unique, and so not everyone can wear the same size rings.
However, very often, you may buy a ring and then find that it no longer fits you further down the line. This can be due to a number of reasons; however the most common ones include:
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Enlarged knuckles caused by arthritis
- Swollen fingers caused by fluid retention
If you have noticed that your rings no longer fit you, whether they are too large or too small, there is one way that you can get them to fit again – you can have them resized. A word of warning though – ring re-sizing can sometimes cost a fair amount, depending on the type of ring and the amount that you would like to have it resized by. This means that you should only choose this option when absolutely necessary.
How is re-sizing carried out?
When you take your ring to a jeweler, they will be able to tell you whether or not it is possible to resize it. If you need to make the ring larger, additional metal will need to be added to the ring. If your ring needs to be made smaller, metal from the ring can be removed. Generally, it costs less to have rings reduced in size because additional metal does not need to be used.
When making a ring larger, a jeweler can select from a range of methods. If it is only a small increase, they can use a device known as a mandrel, which is used to bend and shape objects. The ring can be placed on this device and then tapped down to slowly increase it in size. As the ring is tapped with a hide mallet, heat is generated which helps to shape it. The other option is to cut into the ring and re-cast it with additional metal.
To make a ring smaller, the jeweler will cut into it, reshape it and then reattach the two ends. The join can be hardly noticeable though, as jewelers have much experience in doing this.
If you are unsure as to whether you really need to have your ring resized, always visit your local jewelry store to find out what the jeweler thinks first. They will be able to give you their professional opinion, and will also be able to give you an estimate as to how much it would cost.
Although it is certainly possible to resize your rings yourself, it is not advised unless you have industry knowledge and trust yourself to do it correctly!
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