What to Do if Your Ring is Too Big?
You've been waiting for this moment, this ring, for what feels like forever. Someone has proposed to you with a stunning ring. You're thrilled to spend the rest of your life with your significant other because it's everything you've ever dreamed of. Only one issue exists. Your ring is too large
In an ideal world, you and your significant other would have looked into ring sizing charts and chosen a ring that fits like a glass slipper before this happened. It's acceptable, though, if that doesn't always occur. Not only is an ill-fitting engagement ring undesirable, but it's not the end of the world either! Your ring can fit flawlessly with various temporary and permanent options, allowing you to wear it proudly without worrying about falling off.
How Can You Tell Whether the Ring Is Too Large?
Everybody has different fingers and tastes in jewellery. Therefore, you may believe it's "not too bad" if your ring is loose. But, disregarding a ring the wrong size could easily fall down the drain while washing your hands or be lost when you move your hands too quickly. Both disastrous outcomes would be.
Most likely, your ring is too large if:
- It won't stay upright and will spin around the base of your finger nonstop.
- You worry that it will fly off if you move too quickly or flick your wrist.
- When you wash your hands or shower, it slides off easily.
When Not To Adjust Ring Size?
There are a few situations in which you shouldn't resize your ring—or at the very least, you should wait a little while before making a permanent change—now that you know what to look for and when to do so.
It is not the ideal time to resize your ring if you are experiencing weight fluctuations, whether they are due to pregnancy or weight loss. You don't want to get a ring that fits perfectly today but might not fit again in a few months if your body is going to keep changing.
If the weather changes a lot, you might want to wait a while to see if the ring gets too big in different conditions. For instance, many people swell their fingers in the summer due to heat, so if you are proposed to in the winter and your ring is a little too big, it might be the ideal size in the summer.
The size of your knuckles is another factor to take into account. You may notice that your ring spins a little at the base of your finger, but getting it over your knuckle requires some effort.
If you resize it, you won't be able to get the ring over your knuckle and determine whether it fits the base of your finger.
Finally, it's possible that the ring you own cannot be resized—a jeweller's ability to resize a ring results from many factors working together. Tungsten, titanium, and stainless steel are examples of non-resizeable metals. Additionally, the positioning of the gems may prevent resizing, as in the case of eternity rings with a full band encircled by gemstones. Consulting with an expert is the best way to learn if you can resize your ring. Using our free ring sizer before purchasing is the best way to ensure you never need to resize your ring.
Don't worry if you have a ring style that cannot be altered much or at all or prefer to wait a little longer to resize it. Many in-person and professional options are still available to keep your ring on your finger securely and comfortably.
Different Ways To Adjust An Oversized Ring
Rubber Band Encirclement
Rubber bands are a quick and easy DIY solution to prevent your ring from falling off. It won't harm your ring and is safe to use. A tiny, clear rubber band works best for this fix, though you can use the standard tan rubber band you probably have lying around in your junk drawer. Put the ring over it after sliding it around your finger (you may need to loop it a few times, depending on the size). Your finger gains some thickness from the rubber band to compensate for the additional space.
Size Bar/Ring Guard
These little adjusters—frequently made of plastic—are simple and reasonably priced for quick ring adjustments. You can find one regardless of the thickness of your band because they are available in various sizes and clip onto the inside of your ring. Due to their small size and placement inside the band, you couldn't tell that anything was inside your ring just by looking at it.
Here's another, even more precise method to keep your ring safe. Ring guards are almost invisible, available at select department stores (and, of course, Amazon), and come in various sizes.
You don't need to be an expert jeweller to install these because they're made of metal and require a little more skill (needle nose pliers).
Knot the Band
Depending on the type of ring, there are a few different methods you may use to reduce its size. Tie a knot on the ring's band to rapidly resize it. Depending on the material used for the band, you can use a fishing line or thread. To do this, place one end of the material of your choice within the band and tie a knot around it.
After that, tighten the ends and use superglue or nail glue to bind them. This should shrink your ring by around 1/4 to 1/2 inch, but test it beforehand because some bands can't withstand much pressure before breaking.
Tighten the Pincers
Squeezing the prongs of a ring is one approach to reducing its size. Keeping the ring by its edges, you should next carefully compress the metal parts or prongs to keep the stone in place. Use caution while applying pressure, as it may cause them to shatter!
Use a pair of pliers to compress the prongs further after you've pressed them as hard as you can. This will improve the fit of your ring and help hold the stone in place. Always take your jewellery to a competent jeweller for changes if you feel uneasy using this approach. They should be able to assist you in a timely and secure manner!
Slice and solder
Cutting and soldering is a great approach to reduce the size of a ring if necessary. First, gently cut the ring in two using a fine-toothed saw. Next, make sure the two pieces fit snuggly together by using a pair of pliers to hold them together.
You may link the components together using a soldering iron and solder wire after properly aligning them. This should form a strong connection to guarantee that your ring is kept together firmly. After that, if necessary, you may have your newly acquired, smaller ring cleaned or resized. It is recommended to use this technique on rings composed of gold or silver since other materials might not withstand the heat generated during the soldering procedure.
Heat-Resistant Tubing
Use heat shrink tubing to reduce the size of your ring if it is too big. Rings can be made smaller using heat shrink tubing, a plastic tube that contracts when heated. Cut the tube slightly larger than the size of your finger to employ this procedure.
Next, place the tubing over the ring and use a hair dryer or any other heating tool until the tube contracts gently and tightens around it. As a result, the ring ought to fit your finger more snugly. But use caution—overheating the ring might cause harm. Using scissors, cut off any extra tubing once the ring is shrinking.
Inserts for Springs
A jeweller can install spring inserts as a resizing solution for you. It's a tiny, horseshoe-shaped piece of metal that "springs" back when you put it on. This fits snugly around the base of your finger and allows your knuckle to pass through the ring. These can be an option for metal bands that are too difficult to resize completely, and they are far less invasive than resizing the entire ring.
Beads with Metal Sizing
Consider sizing beads if you need a minor adjustment, usually up to ½ size. These two tiny metal beads, which a jeweller soldered onto your band, improve the snug fit of your ring. The advantage of beads is that, like spring inserts, they allow the ring to slide over your knuckle. If you're unable or unwilling to have your ring resized, beads can also serve as a workaround.
Dental floss (also known as thread or fishing line)
Have you ever considered fitting a ring with floss? You might be able to tighten the fit of your ring if you have some dental floss, thread, or fishing line lying around. Using whichever thin string-like element you choose, the idea is to wrap it around the bottom of the ring, palm-adjacent, as many times as necessary to achieve the ideal fit.
Floss appears to be the best choice, based on my experience. It could be sturdy enough to hold onto itself while you wrap it if you use a plain, basic version coated in wax. As an aside, try not to get your ring wet. Considering how difficult it is to securely tie the floss (thread or fishing line), this method will likely unravel.
Expert Resizing Performed by a Jeweller
When you reach a point where you are certain that you must permanently alter the size of your ring (and your band will accommodate it), it's time to think about having it professionally resized. A ring can usually be resized in up to two sizes. The jeweller will measure your finger and likely ask questions about how the ring fits now, what you find comfortable, etc., so you can work together to determine the ideal size. The finest aspect? Since you'll go to professional, your ring will be flawless and like new when you get it back—except it will fit you perfectly this time.
Avoid These At-Home DIY Resizing Tricks
Hot Adhesive and Wax Candle
We advise against doing so, even though you probably have hot glue and candle wax at home and are eager to tackle your too-big ring. Your wedding ring is a precious one. The one you wish to live a lifetime wearing. This solution is not only disorganised but may also damage your ring.
Apply nail polish
Another common method for DIY ring sizing is to use clear nail polish, which can damage your ring and make it chip and peel. Your band may tarnish if the metal reacts negatively to the polish or polish remover when you attempt to remove it.
FAQs
How Can You Tell Whether the Ring Is Too Large?
Determining whether your ring is too large might be difficult. It's probably too large if it easily slides off your finger and doesn't need any force. Wearing your ring for a few hours and seeing if it shifts about on your finger or becomes lodged on your knuckles is another method to tell if it is too big.
When the ring is on, you should also consider how it looks; if it seems dangling off your finger, it's probably too huge. Finally, you may use other rings comparable to yours in size and kind to compare the ring's size. If everything else fails, you may always take your ring to a jeweller, who can determine whether or not it is too large by measuring it.
How Does Resizing a Classic Ring Happen?
Traditional ring resizing is an easy and quick way to change the size of an existing band without causing any harm to the stones or precious metal. The ring's shank should first have any extra material taken off. Then, to make a new shank, either more or less metal has to be added, depending on how big you want it to be.
Lastly, to give the metal a polished appearance, finishing touches like brushing and polishing must be completed after fixing it. Professional jewellers with ring adjusters and great expertise in this kind of work usually do classic ring resizing. They can guarantee that your item will appear flawless.
How Can an Arthritis Patient Fit a Ring?
An adjustable metal ring sizer can help people with arthritis get a ring that fits. This tool is a metal loop that fits over the finger and may be modified in size. It's crucial to exercise caution when utilising this instrument since improper use might make it uncomfortable.
Before attempting to modify the ring size, those having trouble may find it beneficial to lubricate their fingers with soap or Vaseline. Before attempting to modify the size of the ring, they should also try warming their hands with hot water or heated gloves. People with arthritis should be able to get a ring to fit their fingers firmly and pleasantly with a little perseverance.
Which Metal Types Are Resizeable for Rings?
It is possible to resize rings using a variety of metal kinds. The three most often utilised metals are platinum, silver, and gold. Any of these metals may be readily reshaped with the right tools because they are all malleable.
Resizing other metals for rings, including tungsten, cobalt, and titanium, is possible, but it takes more sophisticated methods and equipment. In addition, the strength or hardness of certain metals may prevent them from being completely resized. To guarantee that the work is done correctly and securely, engaging a skilled goldsmith knowledgeable about the metal used is crucial.
How should a ring be resized the best?
Ring resizing is best done by taking the ring to a qualified jeweller. They may resize the ring without causing any damage by using certain instruments and procedures, such as ring size adjusters. Soldering, stretching, or cutting techniques may be used, depending on the kind of metal and design. It's crucial to have an expert do this to prevent any harm to your ring.
Can an oversized ring be resized at home?
It is generally not advised to attempt ring resizing at home. This is because the procedure requires certain equipment and knowledge that is better left to a qualified goldsmith. To enlarge the ring, take it to a goldsmith who can resize it securely and without breaking it.
How can I tighten my ring at home?
There are several techniques you might attempt to tighten it, depending on the style of the ring. Squeeze the band with pliers used for metal rings until it fits more softly and snugly. You can use a little piece of paper or cloth as an insert to improve the fit of your wood or other material ring. Finally, if your ring is too tight, think about getting it professionally resized at a jewellery store.
How can I shrink my ring without having to change its size?
You may reduce your ring size without resizing it by using a ring guard. A metal sleeve called a ring guard is designed to fit over an existing ring and may be adjusted to reduce the size of the ring. They are available online and at jewellery stores. Using a silicone insert, which is inserted within the band to tighten it against your finger, is an additional choice.
What can I use to reduce the size of my ring?
You may take your ring to a jeweller and get it resized if you need it to be smaller. They could cut out a little piece of metal, alter the band size, and solder it together using a ring mandrel tool. Although other metals can also be resized, gold rings are frequently used.
What Is The Price Of Professionally Resizing A Ring?
Responding to this question without considering every aspect of your unique ring is impossible. It could be as little as $20 or as much as hundreds. Among the things to think about are:
- The kind of metal and difficulty the jeweller will encounter when working with it.
- Placement of the stones: The more stones there are, the more likely they need to be adjusted.
- Bandwidth (larger bands are more expensive).
Ultimately, you must discuss your band's best options and prices with a qualified jeweller.
Is A Ring Weak If It Is Resized?
In a technical sense, sure. Every spot on a ring with a cut or solder joint is where the ring is marginally weaker than otherwise. Furthermore, metal that has been stretched is weaker than it was initially (although we do not advise using metal stretching to resize rings). This is only to suggest avoiding getting a ring resized excessively.
A knowledgeable, experienced jeweller will know how to strengthen any weak areas and increase the longevity of your wedding band when they work on it. Over a lifetime, they will help it endure everything you throw at it.
Final remarks
Should you need to make a ring smaller, several resizing methods are accessible. The best and safest method is to get the ring sized by a qualified goldsmith. They will resize the ring using specialised equipment and processes to ensure it fits precisely. If you are the do-it-yourself kind, you may use wire cutters to cut the metal band and then file down any sharp edges.
As an alternative, to make the ring snugger, you can wrap small pieces of paper or tape around the shank. Regardless of your technique, remember how comfortable the ring will be to wear so it doesn't get too tight. Your objective should be a great match with any choice!
Some of the significant jewellery pieces you will ever own, let me say the most significant, are your engagement ring and your soon-to-be wedding band. Thus, you should confirm that it fits properly and that you won't have to worry about it coming loose.
The choice of whether to resize your ring and the method you wish to use are heavily influenced by numerous factors.
You might only need a short-term solution, such as a ring guard, which you could wear in the winter and remove in the summer when the weather warms up (or your fingers swell slightly after eating too much salty food for dinner). Make sure you visit a knowledgeable jeweller if you want to have your ring professionally resized to fit flawlessly and appear brand new.
The ultimate objective would be to completely prevent this and ensure the ring is the right size when purchased. Check out our guide on finding your partner's ring size without them knowing if you need help. https://www.luxurybrandjewellery.com.au
We hope you found this useful!
Hopefully, this post has provided useful solutions if you've ever had a ring that you loved but was always too big. Try out a few temporary do-it-yourself techniques at home first, and then determine if you need to take the next step, such as using semi-permanent ring sizing beads or having a professional jeweller fully resize your ring.
What methods are you going to attempt? Tell us by sending us a DM!