How to Make a Ring Smaller Without Resizing It

Are you wearing a ring that's too big for you? If so, you might be wondering if there are options other than having it resized right away. You may not want to resize a ring for financial or sentimental reasons, or because you just need a quick fix. Learning how to make a ring fit tighter at home will help you make the necessary adjustments without professional resizing.

How Does Ring Resizing Work?

If you've ever had clothing altered, you'll notice a tailor takes in some fabric or cuts it away to make a piece of clothing smaller or adds a panel to let out a garment. Resizing a ring is not that different. A jeweler will often cut out a tiny part of the band and solder the pieces together, using heat to join the parts back into a ring. Then they polish the band and clean away any oxidation, leaving you with a correctly sized ring.

If a ring is too small, the jeweler can stretch the metal if the band is thick enough. This adjustment will make the ring half a size larger. If you need your ring resized up by more than half a size, the jeweler will cut the band, add in some metal and then make sure the band looks uniform and attractive by smoothing, polishing and cleaning it.

There are a few limitations that come with resizing a ring, such as the type of metals that can be resized, the turnaround time and how many sizes bigger or smaller the ring can go.

Rings made of the following materials can be resized:

• Solid gold
• Brass
• Sterling silver
• Platinum

The resizing process will generally last up to two weeks, though it may take longer if the request is complicated or the ring is intricate. Additionally, most rings can be only sized up or down two sizes.

How to Know if Your Ring Is Too Big

When you're wearing a ring that's too large, it spins around your finger (which can drive you nuts), or worse, it could fall off and you could lose it (which will drive you even more nuts)!

Here are some signs that your ring is too big:

• You can take it off with very little effort.
• Another person can easily pull it off your finger.
• It spins around constantly at the base of your finger.

When your ring fits properly, it will be easier to put on than to take off. It might spin occasionally, especially in cold weather, but it should sit upright most of the time. It will be difficult to take off without some effort, but it should never be too difficult or painful. Your ring should always feel comfortable once it's on.  

When NOT to Resize a Ring

In many instances, when a ring is too big, it's best to have it resized. However, sometimes, for one reason or another, you can't or shouldn't resize it. 

For example, you may be in the process of losing weight. If that's the case, you should wait to have your ring resized until you have met your goal rather than have it sized multiple times. 

It's also possible that your ring will feel slightly loose during the cold winter months because our fingers shrink in cooler weather. You probably don't want to size your ring with each new season, so a temporary sizing option is ideal. 


Here are some other instances when you might not want to use traditional methods to size a ring:

• Unique finger size: The ring is too big at the base of your finger, but it won't fit over the knuckle if it's sized smaller.
• Wrong metal type: The ring is made of a metal that is too difficult to be resized. Metals like tungsten and titanium are extremely hard, which creates complications when trying to resize them.
• Temporary ring ownership: If you're borrowing a ring, or you plan to give the ring away to someone else in the near future, you may not want to permanently alter the ring for short-term use. 
• Reoccurring swelling issues: If you are susceptible to frequent swelling in your fingers, temporary ring size adjustment will allow you to wear your ring throughout your finger size fluctuations. 
• Antique or collectible rings: If your ring is an antique, it may lose value if it is resized. Antiques retain the most value when they are left in their original condition. Additionally, resized antique rings can be very difficult to restore. 
• Temporary health issues: Some health conditions or pregnancy can temporarily change the size of your fingers. Resizing your ring during these momentary events will lead you to resize your ring again once you're back to your normal ring size.
• Ring engravings: Any engravings on the ring will be damaged or completely removed if resized. If this engraving is sentimental, you may want to think twice about permanently removing it.
• Stone setting issues: Depending on how the ring is designed, some rings may require removing, then resetting, the stones in order to be resized. This would completely change the ring's look or design as all the stones may not be able to fit on the new, smaller band.

In these situations, you'll want to consider your options for making the ring smaller without having it resized. 

DIY Ring Sizing Methods

When a fashion emergency arises, you may not have time to head to your local jeweler for a professional fix. So, how can you make a big ring fit for that last-minute party or event? When trying to resize a ring at home, a quick Google search on how to make rings smaller will turn up several DIY ring-sizing options. Many of these methods can potentially damage your rings, so proceed with caution. 

As professional jewelers, we do not recommend that you use tape or food-grade silicone to temporarily make a loose ring fit. Both your skin and your ring may react poorly to these substances. These methods are likely to cause more damage than good.

If you want an at-home option for making your ring smaller, you can try plastic ring guards. Plastic ring guards are temporary ring sizers that can be purchased in many stores and online, and they are often easy to use and comfortable. They are not a permanent solution, but they can be useful for adjusting a ring size for a season or two. 

Types of Jeweler-Applied Ring Sizers

Professional jewelers can alter the circumference of your ring, but if you're looking for other options, we can still help. Unlike DIY methods that are only temporary, jeweler-applied methods are semipermanent and, in some cases, permanent. Check out some options for changing the sizing of your ring without traditional resizing methods below. If you're still not sure which method is best for you, reach out to a jeweler with experience in resizing rings near you for guidance. 

 

Sizing Beads

Sometimes called "ring bumps" or "speed bumps," sizing beads can be a great alternative to fully resizing rings, especially for those with larger knuckles. Sizing beads are small metal balls that are soldered on the back section of the inside of your ring.

Sizing beads provide the space necessary to push a ring over your knuckle but help it stay in place at the base of your finger. For most people, this option solves the problem of a spinning engagement ring that feels tight around the knuckle. 


Sizing beads can be small or large. They can also be slightly adjusted by professional jewelers to make them more comfortable. 

 

Spring Inserts

Spring inserts are another option for sizing that does not involve changing the circumference of the ring. Instead, a strip of metal is inserted inside the band. This metal can "spring" back against the inside of the ring, which allows you to easily push the ring over your knuckle. 


Spring inserts are more complicated to install than sizing beads, but they are a good option for people who find sizing beads to be uncomfortable. They also provide slightly more sizing flexibility (up to one full size smaller).

 

Sizing Bars (or Ring Guards)

Sizing bars (also known as ring guards) are also an option for making a ring smaller without sizing. These metal bars are placed at the base of your band and folded around the ring's foundation. Ring guards are easy to install, comfortable and affordable. While ring guards can make rings smaller in seconds, they are generally meant to be temporary. 

Ring guards are a great option for those who are losing weight or have fingers that shrink significantly in the winter. They also can be installed on many rings made of metal that cannot otherwise be sized (such as titanium or stainless steel).

 

Adjustable Shanks

For those who seriously struggle to get their rings over their knuckles (such as those with arthritis), adjustable shanks like Cliq are usually the best choice. These shanks are installed by professional jewelers and include a hinge that allows your ring to open. These shanks include a small button that can be opened using a tool or the tip of a pen. When the button is pressed, the ring opens up, allowing you to slide the ring over the knuckle. Once the ring is on, it can then be closed around the base of the finger. 


Cliq shanks are more expensive than the other options listed, but they are a fantastic, permanent solution for those who have larger knuckles. We only recommend installing these shanks on rings made of gold or platinum.

DIY vs. Jeweler-Applied Ring Sizers

There are pros and cons to both methods of making a ring smaller, so you may be wondering what is the right choice for you. When choosing DIY or jeweler-applied ring sizes, there are a few things you'll want to consider.

Aesthetic 

When it comes to aesthetics, jeweler-applied ring sizers are the better option — no question. Jewelers are trained to create beautiful jewelry, so you can feel confident your ring will look as perfect as possible. Your jeweler will smooth the fixtures and make your ring sizer the least noticeable as possible by making it look like a natural part of the ring. 

DIY sizers, on the other hand, will stand out as an attachment on your ring band. Some are more discreet than others, but no DIY option can compete with the sleek look of jeweler-applied resizers.

 

Durability

DIY ring sizers hold up fairly well in terms of durability — some of them can even last for several months with no issues. If you're only seeking a temporary solution, this level of durability will work well to suit your needs. However, if you're looking for a more long-term fix, you'll want to opt for a jeweler-applied sizer. These sizers are semipermanent, with the sizer being soldered onto the ring's band. Either way, you'll enjoy pretty solid durability. 

 

Price

As you can probably guess, a professional service will cost more than a crafty DIY ring resizer. This is not to say a professional ring resizing service is wildly expensive — because it's often not. However, in comparison to a DIY option, a jeweler-applied ring sizer is more expensive. 

If you're looking for a long-term ring adjustment solution, a jeweler-applied ring sizer can save you money in the long run. DIY sizers will need replacing, especially if they are used on a ring you wear daily. Meanwhile, since professional sizers are semipermanent, you only need to pay a one-time fee to have a perfectly sized ring. 

 

Time

How quickly a jeweler can apply a ring sizer will depend on their availability. Sometimes a service can have a quick turnaround time, while other times, you may be waiting upwards of a few weeks. While it's definitely worth the wait to have a high-quality finished project, sometimes you need a quick fix. 


If a local store sells DIY ring sizers, you may be able to adjust your ring size that same day. If they are not locally available, they're likely available online with quick shipping options. So, if you're truly in a rush, DIY temporary ring sizers may be your best option. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Ring Resized?

The cost depends on many factors, but in general, the cost will begin at $20 for a very simple resizing but can go up to hundreds of dollars for a complex adjustment.

Factors that can increase the cost of your resizing include:

• Making the ring bigger: It is much harder to make a ring bigger than it is to make it smaller. If you're looking to size your ring up, you can expect to pay more than you would to size it down.
• Large degrees of change: Resizing your ring by a few ring sizes will be more expensive than minor adjustments.
• Etching or channel settings: Resizing a ring with etchings or channel settings requires removing these components, then re-etching and replacing stones with their new channel settings. In some cases, your jeweler may need to completely change the stone settings. This will take extra time and extra money.

Of course, the cost of resizing a ring will vary by situation. Speak to your jeweler to discuss your needs and ask if it's possible to receive an estimate.

Does Ring Resizing Make the Ring Weak?

The answer to this question depends on several different factors. In order to make a ring half a size bigger, the metal may be stretched, which can thin out and weaken your ring to some degree. Additionally, in some cases, a ring can become slightly weaker at the solder points. However, a highly skilled and experienced jeweler knows how to minimize any potential weakening. Your ring shouldn't show any evidence of ever being sized when executed properly.

How Can I Make My Ring Smaller Without Resizing?

Sometimes the size of a ring isn't adjustable. Rings made from some materials, such as tungsten, titanium and rose gold cannot easily be resized. In other cases, the ring design may be very complex and difficult to resize. If you find yourself in this situation, you can add a small ring under the existing ring. The tighter ring will fill out the larger band, keeping it in place. 

If the double ring method does not work for you, or you would prefer a longer-term solution, you can also get a jeweler to make a copy of your ring in the correct size.

Stop in and See Us at Koser Jewelers!

If you aren't sure which of these choices is best for you, stop in to Koser Jewelers for expert guidance and personalized help. We'll walk you through all your options, from resizing your ring to the various ring sizer solutions until we find the right fit for you. 

If you'd like to explore all your options for resizing your ring, give us a call at 717-653-4941. You can also stop by our store in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, or complete our online contact form. Our team includes GIA-Accrediated staff and we also have designers and bench jewelers (or goldsmiths).

As Lancaster County's only Master IJO Jeweler, you can rest assured that we have the expertise to handle even complex resizing projects. As always, we look forward to serving you and taking care of all your jewelry needs. See you soon!