Can Wedding Rings Be Made Bigger?

Wedding rings are a symbol of love and commitment. They represent the union between two people who have decided to spend their lives together. However, as time passes, some people may find that their wedding rings no longer fit comfortably on their fingers. This can be due to weight gain, swelling, or changes in the size of their fingers. So, can wedding rings be made bigger? The short answer is yes, but let's explore this topic in more detail.

There are several ways to make a wedding ring bigger, depending on the material and design of the ring. Let's take a look at some of the most common methods:

1. Ring Stretching

Ring stretching is a process that involves using a ring stretcher tool to expand the metal of the ring. This method is most effective for rings made of softer metals, such as gold or silver. However, it's important to note that this process can weaken the metal, so it should only be done by a professional jeweler.

2. Sizing Beads

Sizing beads are small metal balls that can be soldered onto the inside of the ring band. These beads make the ring fit more snugly on the finger, effectively making the ring smaller. Conversely, if the ring is too tight, the jeweler can remove the beads to make the ring larger.

3. Adding a Ring Guard

A ring guard is a small, thin piece of metal that is placed around the inside of the ring band. This method works best for rings with a thin band. The ring guard creates a tighter fit on the finger, effectively making the ring smaller. If the ring is too tight, the jeweler can remove the guard to make the ring larger.

4. Ring Shank Replacement

If the ring is made of a more durable metal, such as platinum or titanium, a jeweler may suggest replacing the entire shank, or band, of the ring. This involves removing the original shank and replacing it with a new, larger one. This method is more expensive than the other methods but is necessary for more complex ring designs.

5. Adding a Ring Sizer

A ring sizer is a small piece of metal that is placed inside the ring band to create a tighter fit on the finger. The jeweler can add or remove the sizer to adjust the size of the ring as needed. This method is best for rings with a wider band.

It's important to note that not all rings can be made bigger. If the ring has a design that goes all the way around the band, such as an eternity band, it may not be possible to resize the ring without compromising the design. In some cases, a jeweler may suggest adding a small piece of metal to the band to maintain the design while making the ring larger.

It's also important to choose a reputable jeweler to resize your wedding ring. Resizing a ring is a delicate process that requires precision and expertise. A professional jeweler will be able to assess the ring's material, design, and condition to determine the best method for resizing it.

When it comes to cost, the price of resizing a ring will vary depending on the method used and the complexity of the ring design. Ring stretching and adding a ring sizer are typically the least expensive options, while replacing the shank is the most expensive.

In addition to resizing a wedding ring, there are also some other things that you can do to ensure that your ring fits comfortably over time. Here are a few tips:

1. Take care of your hands

If you're experiencing swelling in your fingers, it's important to take care of your hands. Avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing, and take frequent breaks if you're doing activities that require a lot of hand movement.

2. Remove your ring when necessary

If your ring is causing discomfort, it's important to remove it. This is especially true if you're doing activities that may cause your hands to swell, such as exercising or being out in hot weather.

3. Get your ring resized before major weight changes

If you know that you're going to be going through a major weight change, such as gaining or losing a significant amount of weight, it's a good idea to get your ring resized before the change occurs. This will ensure that your ring continues to fit comfortably.

4. Store your ring properly

When you're not wearing your ring, it's important to store it properly. This will help prevent it from getting scratched or damaged, which can make resizing more difficult.

In conclusion, wedding rings can be resized to make them bigger, depending on the material and design of the ring. Ring stretching, adding sizing beads or a ring guard, replacing the shank, or adding a ring sizer are all possible methods for making a ring larger. However, not all rings can be resized, especially if the design goes all the way around the band. It's important to choose a reputable jeweler to resize your ring and to take care of your hands and ring to ensure a comfortable fit over time.