Whether it’s an engagement ring that slides around on your finger, a wedding band that’s become too tight or a favorite ring that no longer fits quite the way it used to, a size adjustment may be all that’s needed. Fortunately, many rings can be made bigger or smaller by a professional jeweler. Learn how resizing works, how to find your ring size and what to expect during the process.
How to find your ring size
Before resizing your ring, you’ll need to know your current ring size. A professional jeweler can provide the most accurate assessment, but there are also several ways to measure your ring size at home.
Use a string
One of the quickest ways to find your ring size at home is with a piece of string. Wrap it around the base of your finger just below the knuckle, and mark the point where the ends overlap (don't pull the string too tightly). Then measure the length in millimeters with a ruler and use a ring sizing guide to find the corresponding ring size.
Purchase a ring sizer online
If you’d prefer a dedicated measuring tool, consider purchasing a ring sizer online. Many at-home ring sizers are adjustable plastic bands that work like a belt, allowing you to tighten or loosen the fit around your finger. Once you have a comfortable fit, note the size indicated on the tool.
Download the Jewelers Mutual ring sizer
If you have access to a printer, download Jewelers Mutual’s printable ring sizer. You can either compare a ring that fits well to the sizing circles or use the paper strip to measure your finger. Be sure to print the guide at 100% scale and follow the instructions for the most accurate results.
How should a ring fit?
Finding the right ring size is partly a matter of personal preference, but how a ring should fit comes down to comfort, security and everyday wearability. Ideally, a ring should slide on with relative ease and sit snugly at the base of your finger without feeling uncomfortably tight. As it passes over your knuckle, it may require a slight push. When removing the ring, you should feel a bit of resistance and may need to gently twist or wiggle it over the knuckle.
Keep in mind that your finger size can fluctuate throughout the day. Heat, humidity, exercise, salty foods and alcohol can cause your fingers to increase in size, while cold weather may make them shrink temporarily. Weight changes, pregnancy and medical conditions such as arthritis can also affect how a ring fits.
Signs you need to resize your ring
If your ring no longer feels comfortable or secure, it may be time to consider resizing.
A ring that is too small may:
- Be difficult or impossible to rotate on your finger
- Create a “muffin top” effect where skin bulges around the band
- Cause discomfort, pain or tingling
- Leave deep indentations on your finger
- Cause rubbing, irritation or sores
A ring that is too large may:
- Spin freely around your finger around your finger
- Cause the center stone to sit sideways instead of upright
- Slide over your knuckle too easily
- Feel like it could slip off during everyday activities
- Comes off with little resistance
How to make a ring smaller
If your ring is too loose, a jeweler can usually resize it to a smaller size by removing a portion of the band and soldering it back together. Depending on the ring, one of the following semi-permanent solutions may be an alternative to resizing.
- Sizing beads: A jeweler adds two small metal balls to the inside of the band. They’re a discreet, cost-effective option when a ring only needs to be made about a half size smaller.
- Spring insert: A flexible horseshoe-shaped metal strip installed inside the band. Many people find it more comfortable than sizing beads, and it can accommodate larger size adjustments.
- Sizing bar: A hinged, U-shaped device attached to the inside of the ring. It’s typically used when a significant size adjustment is needed.
Need a quick temporary fix? Consider one of these inexpensive ring adjusters:
- Plastic ring guards: Silicone sleeves or wedges that slide over the underside of the band.
- Ring snuggies or coil sizers: Flexible coils that wrap around the band and can be adjusted to your preferred fit.
Do not use tape, liquid guard or food-grade silicone, which can damage your ring.
How to make a ring bigger
If your ring feels too tight, a jeweler can often resize it to create a more comfortable fit. Common methods include:
- Stretching: A plain band without stones can sometimes be stretched up to about a half size.
- Cutting and soldering: For rings with gemstones or larger size increases, a jeweler can cut the band, add a small piece of matching metal and solder it back together.
Rings that can’t be resized
While many rings can be resized, some materials or designs make the process difficult or impossible.
- Titanium, cobalt, tungsten and stainless-steel rings
- Ceramic, resin, crystal and enamel rings
- Plated rings
- Full eternity rings, where gemstones extend all the way around the ring
- Rings with delicate pavé settings or intricate designs that could be damaged during resizing
Even when a ring can be resized, there are limits. Increasing or decreasing a ring by more than two sizes may distort the shape of the band or weaken the setting. A jeweler can determine whether your ring can be safely resized.
Where to get a ring resized
If your ring needs resizing, start with the retailer that sold you the ring or a trusted local jewelry store. Many have bench jewelers on staff who can resize rings and perform other repairs. Before scheduling a resize, check any warranty or service paperwork that came with the ring, as resizing may be covered.
How much does it cost to resize a ring?
Ring resizing costs can vary widely. The price depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the complexity of the ring’s design and the size of the adjustment required. Rings with gemstones, intricate settings or larger size changes typically cost more to resize than plain bands. In general, making a ring smaller costs less than making it bigger because no additional metal is needed. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to have the ring evaluated by a jeweler.
Insure your ring with Jewelers Mutual
Once your ring fits just right, consider protecting it with personal jewelry insurance from Jewelers Mutual. Coverage can help cover repair or replacement costs if your jewelry is lost, stolen, damaged or disappears. Check your rate by clicking the button below.
