Can Engagement Rings Be Resized?

Can Engagement Rings Be Resized? | Anatomy of a Ring in Chicago

When we discuss custom engagement rings, at Wedding Band & Co. in Chicago, one of the most frequent queries we hear is: “What if the ring doesn’t fit?” It's a fair question—after all, even the most beautiful diamond engagement ring cannot accomplish its purpose if it’s constantly slipping off or constricting too much.

This article explains how engagement rings can be resized through the use of the Anatomy of a Ring approach. From the shank and setting, to metal types and diamond styles, every element of the ring affects its ability to be resized. Let’s break it down.

 

The Shank: A Critical Component of Resizing

In ring anatomy, the shank, which is the circular band that goes around the finger, is the section that jewelers work with when sizing a ring. The capacity to resize an engagement ring is largely dependent on this part. Every time we work on resizing a ring at our Chicago jewelry studio, we always inspect the shank’s metal type, thickness and design.

Which Ring Metals Can Be Resized?

Metals determine the flexibility and risk involved in resizing:

• Gold (Yellow, White, or Rose) – Resizable, though rose gold is more fragile and prone to cracking.
• Platinum – Resizable but requires advanced skill due to its strength and higher melting point.
• Silver – Easier to work with but may be too soft for long-term durability.
• Tungsten, Titanium, Stainless Steel – Typically non-resizable due to their hardness and brittleness.

At our Chicago showroom, we always explain these differences to our clients as they are choosing or modifying their custom engagement rings.

 

Do You Need to Resize Your Engagement Ring?

If your ring doesn’t fit, resizing might seem like the most natural solution—but it’s not always that straightforward.

When It Makes Sense to Resize Your Ring

• The ring keeps slipping off your finger.
• You have trouble putting on the ring over your knuckle.
• You have lost or gained weight and the ring no longer fits comfortably.
• You are given a surprise ring and almost guessed the size.

When to Avoid Resizing a Ring

• Seasonal swelling (for instance, during summer months).
• Pregnancy and postpartum changes.
• Temporary weight fluctuations.

Instead of rushing into resizing, the jewelers at Wedding Bands & Co. in Chicago might suggest a temporary sizing solution—such as sizing beads or inserts—until your finger returns to its normal size.

 

How Resizing Works: Making the Ring Larger or Smaller

Now let’s look at what really occurs during a resizing, beginning with the methods used by experienced jewelers:

Sizing Down (Making a Ring Smaller)

• Cut and Rejoin Method: A small piece of the shank is cut off and the ring is joined back together through soldering.
• Sizing Beads: Two small metal balls are placed inside the shank to give a tighter fit.
• Spring Inserts: A tension insert is placed inside the band, and it gently grips the finger.

Sizing Up (Making a Ring Larger)

• Stretching: Suitable for minor size increments (less than half a size).
• Metal Additions: The ring is cut and additional metal is soldered into the shank. It requires polishing and refinishing for a perfect look.

At Wedding Band & Co., we first assess the ring's anatomy before we can undertake any resizing. The ability to resize rings is restricted by rings with complex elements on the shank including pavé stones, channel settings or eternity bands and may require re-setting of the diamonds.

Can Resizing Damage Your Ring?

Resizing isn’t inherently dangerous, but there are risks if the process is done poorly—or too often.

Things to Watch Out For:

• Stretching or cutting the bands results in them becoming thinner.
• Too many resizes will weaken the metal over time.
• Delicate settings (especially multi-stone) will come loose if the band moves.

If your ring has a solitaire setting, it’s normally easier and safer to resize. But if your band is part of a bespoke piece of jewelry or has intricate design work, always consult a reputable jeweler in Chicago first—like our experts at Wedding Band & Co.

 

How Many Sizes Can You Resize a Ring?

The majority of jewelers state that one can adjust up to two sizes smaller or larger. Going beyond this can result in damage to the structure and integrity of the ring.

Our staff at the Chicago Oak Street showroom provides our clients with proper ring sizing at the initial meeting. If you don’t have your partner’s ring size, take a ring size that is bigger than their actual size and use temporary ring sizers until you can get the perfect fit.

What’s Easier: Sizing Up or Down?

It is always easier and less expensive to go down a size. The jeweller cuts the band, then cuts out a section and welds the ends back together.

Adding metal to the band requires more time and effort in upsizing, especially when the extra metal needs to be added. If you have to increase the size by more than half a size, be ready to pay more money as more materials and man hours will be required.

Can a Ring Be Resized More Than Once?

Yes, but with caution. Each resizing weakens the metal structure a little bit more. Your ring will be at risk of breaking or losing its diamonds if it is already thin or has several small diamonds after multiple resizing.

If you know there will be significant changes in the future such as pregnancy, weight changes or arthritis, ask about ring designs that can accommodate these changes. We often recommend engagement rings with thicker shanks or adjustable sizing features to our Chicago clients.

How Much Does Ring Resizing Cost in Chicago?

The price to resize a ring begins at $100 and increases depending on:

• Type of metal used (Platinum and Titanium are the most costly).
• Degree of resizing (half a size to two full sizes).
• Number of stones (the more stones, the more careful and time consuming the process).
• Design features (more details on the shanks need more work).

How Long Does Ring Resizing Take?

Time for resizing is between a few hours and two weeks depending on:

• Complexity of the design
• Metal type and thickness
• Setting security
• Availability of materials

We’re happy to offer same day resizing in Chicago for certain styles and easy adjustments. For more intricate rings, the jeweler will provide you with a timeline that balances the quality of the craftsmanship with the quality of the care.

 

At-Home Ring Resizing: Proceed with Caution

We occasionally get asked, “Can I resize my engagement ring at home?”

The short answer: not recommended, especially with fine jewelry or diamond settings.

However, there are some temporary fixes that are safe and include ring guards, silicone inserts and string wraps which are good for temporary use especially if you are waiting for a professional to resize your ring.

Need help selecting the right ring size at the beginning? If you need help getting your finger measured we can do it in person or we can show you our Chicago ring sizing chart online.

Ring Sizes: The Measurement That Defines the Fit

Ring size is the measurement of the inside circumference of the shank and is expressed in inches or millimetres.

For example:

• Size 5: ~1.941 inches inside circumference
• Size 7: ~2.141 inches
• Size 10: ~2.443 inches

Do you require a complete ring size chart? Check out our showroom.

Find Your Perfect Fit at Wedding Band & Co. in Chicago

As a local custom jewelry studio in Chicago, we pride ourselves in making and sizing rings that are both comfortable to wear and will last for generations. From helping you design your dream engagement ring to helping you enhance your setting or repair a family piece, we are here to assist you at every turn.

Make your appointment now with Koorosh Daneshgar and our team at Wedding Band & Co. Let’s design a ring that not only shines—but fits well.

Address: 43 E Oak Street, Chicago.
Call: +13129200726
Email: info@weddingbandscompany.com

Call us or book online to begin your custom ring process.

We'll help you to design your dream engagement ring without stress and spending countless hours searching for your perfect ring. All you need to do is click on "Free Consultation" to get started.

 

By: Koorosh Daneshgar CEO/Design Chief