Solved: My Engagement Ring Is Too Small. Now What?

Turn off the alarm bells, we’re not panicking. There’s no need to panic. Rings being bought too small, or becoming too small after time is a common occurrence, and of course, there are remedies.

I will walk you through them all so that you can move forward calmly.

Our first port of call is to establish why the ring is too small. If it was bought in a smaller size or is a family heirloom, and just plainly doesn’t fit, you can skip this section. Head straight to what are my options. 

There are multiple reasons a previously properly fitting ring is now the wrong ring size.

1. Weight gain
2. Weight loss
3. Pregnancy
4. Swelling
5. Aging
6. A temperature change coming into the winter months or summer months
7. Health conditions
8. Medications
9. Injury or trauma to the finger
10. Incorrect initial sizing
11. Residual water retention
12. Hormonal changes
13. Inflammation
14. Retaining fluid
15. Allergies
16. Muscle development
17. Arthritis or joint issues
18. Bone structure changes
19. Lifestyle changes

If it’s something that will fix itself in time – short-term medication prescription, an injury that will heal, etc – the general rule of thumb is to forego wearing the ring for a short period of time. Don’t persevere with a ring that is a tighter fit as it may constrict blood vessels and cause circulation issues. 

Should the issue be a long-term issue we will need a more permanent solution. This bad boy is going to be on your left ring finger for the rest of your life, we need the perfect fit. 

How Can I Tell if My Ring Is Too Small?

The obvious one is that it doesn’t fit on your finger, but for some, it’s not so blatant. A too-small ring may have:

Difficulty in sliding it on or off: If the ring feels tight and requires significant effort to put on or remove, it is likely too small.

Tightness or discomfort: When wearing the ring, if you feel constant pressure or discomfort around your finger, it suggests that the ring is too small and constricting proper blood circulation.

Finger swelling or redness: If you notice your finger becoming swollen or developing redness after wearing the ring for a while, it could be a sign of a tight fit and insufficient space for your finger.

Imprints or indentation: When you take off the ring, observe if there are visible imprints or indentations left on your skin. This suggests that the ring is pressing too tightly against your finger.

Inability to rotate the ring: If you find it challenging to rotate the ring freely on your finger or adjust its position comfortably, it may be an indication that the ring is too small. If it the ring spins too much it’s too big.

A bigger size may be more suitable for your finger shape, and the good news is that it’s generally an easy process. 

How Should Your Engagement Ring Fit?

Snug but not tight: The ring should fit snugly on the finger without feeling overly tight or constricting. It should slide on smoothly and not require excessive force to put on or remove.

Easy movement: The ring should allow for easy movement on the finger. It should be able to rotate slightly without feeling too loose or spinning excessively. The goal is to strike a balance where the ring stays in place while allowing a comfortable range of motion.

Comfortable wear: The wearer should feel comfortable wearing the ring throughout the day. There should be no significant discomfort, pinching, or irritation caused by the ring’s fit. The ring should not leave indentations or imprints on the skin when taken off.

Proper sizing: The engagement ring should be accurately sized to match the wearer’s finger. It’s essential to have the ring professionally sized by a jeweler using industry-standard sizing tools. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and finger swelling due to various circumstances should also be taken into consideration.

Seek professional guidance: If you’re unsure about the proper fit of an engagement ring, it’s advisable to consult a reputable jeweler. They can provide expert advice, measure the finger accurately, and help you find the right ring size and fit.

What are my Options for a Ring that’s too Small?

Ring Return and Exchange

Returning the ring can be an option if it doesn’t fit properly. If the ring is custom-made, personalized, or engraved, it’s worth noting that the return policy may vary. Checking with the retailer directly will provide the most accurate information for your situation. But otherwise, it may just be a simple process of exchanging for the right size. 

1. Check the return policy: Take a moment to review the retailer’s return policy, which will outline the options available to you. Look for a generous return window, minimal requirements for the ring’s condition, and a hassle-free process.
2. Act promptly: If you decide to return the ring, make sure to do so within the designated timeframe mentioned in the policy. Acting promptly increases the likelihood of a smooth return process.
3. Preserve the ring’s condition: Ensure that the ring remains in its original condition, without any signs of wear or damage beyond what might have occurred during a simple try-on. Keep the packaging and accompanying documentation intact, as they may be necessary for a successful return.
4. Reach out to customer service: Contact the retailer’s customer service team, who will be happy to assist you with initiating the return process. They can provide clear instructions, answer any questions, and guide you through the necessary steps.
5. Return made easy: Determine if the retailer offers prepaid shipping labels or covers the return shipping costs. Many retailers strive to make the return process as convenient as possible for their customers.

Remember, each retailer or jewelry store has its own policies and procedures for returns, so it’s essential to consult their guidelines and reach out to their customer service for personalized assistance.

Stay positive throughout the process, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the retailer’s helpful team. They are there to ensure your satisfaction and make your return experience a pleasant one.

Ring Resizing

The most common solution is to have the ring resized by a professional jeweler. They can either increase the ring’s size by stretching it or add extra metal to expand its circumference. The feasibility of resizing depends on the ring’s design, material, and any gemstones it may have. It’s important to consult a skilled jeweler to ensure the resizing is done properly.

Here’s the process:

Evaluation

Your local jeweler will examine the ring to assess its design, materials, and any gemstone settings. They will also consider the desired size adjustment and determine the feasibility of resizing based on these factors.

Measurement

The jeweler will measure the wearer’s finger using ring sizing tools, such as a ring mandrel or ring sizer. This step helps determine the correct size for the resized ring.

Sizing method: 

Depending on the ring’s material and design, the jeweler will choose an appropriate resizing method. The main technique for resizing rings are:

Cutting and adding/removing metal: For rings that need to be made larger, the jeweler may cut the shank (the band of the ring) at the bottom of the ring, and add extra metal to increase its size. This method is commonly used for gold, silver, and platinum rings. Rings that need to be made smaller will have a piece of the band removed. 

Potential adjustments

During the resizing process, the jeweler may need to make additional adjustments. These can include repositioning or resetting gemstones, refining the ring’s shape, or repairing any damage caused by the resizing process.

Finishing touches

After the resizing is complete, the jeweler will ensure that the ring’s aesthetics are restored. They may polish, buff, or refinish the ring as necessary to maintain its original appearance.

Remember, everyone’s finger size and shape can vary, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. The most important aspect is that the engagement ring fits comfortably and securely on the wearer’s finger, ensuring a delightful and enjoyable experience.

What Materials Can a Jeweler Resize?

It’s important to note that certain factors can affect the feasibility of resizing, including the ring’s design complexity, gemstone settings, engravings, or any potential risks of damaging the ring during the resizing process. It’s best to consult with a professional jeweler who can assess the specific ring material and provide expert advice on resizing possibilities.

Gold: Both yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold rings are usually resizable. Gold is a malleable metal, allowing it to be stretched or compressed to adjust the ring’s size.

Silver: Sterling silver rings can often be resized, as silver is relatively soft and can be manipulated by a jeweler. However, resizing silver rings with intricate designs or gemstones may require extra care.

Platinum: Platinum rings are generally resizable. Although platinum is a dense and durable metal, skilled jewelers can modify its size by stretching or compressing it.

Some alternative metals: Certain alternative metals, such as titanium or stainless steel, cannot be easily resized due to their hardness and composition. However, some jewelers may offer alternative solutions, such as creating a new ring with the desired size or using sizing inserts.

Tungsten: Tungsten rings can not be resized due to their extreme hardness. The nature of tungsten makes traditional resizing methods impractical. However, some jewelers may offer alternative solutions, such as creating a new ring with the desired size or using sizing inserts.

Titanium: Titanium rings are also difficult to resize due to their high strength and durability. The hardness of titanium makes traditional resizing methods challenging. Like tungsten, alternative solutions such as remaking the ring or using sizing inserts may be recommended.

FAQ

Can any ring be resized?

Not all rings can be easily resized. The feasibility of resizing depends on factors such as the material, design complexity, gemstone settings, and any potential risks associated with the resizing process. It’s best to consult a jeweler to determine if your specific ring can be resized. In terms of a wedding band, eternity bands, engagement rings etc, all can be resized if the above factors have been taken into consideration.

How much can a ring be resized?

The amount a ring can be resized depends on various factors, including the material and design. In general, rings can typically be resized within a range of about a half size up or down. Beyond that, the resizing process may affect the structural integrity or aesthetics of the ring. Rings can be resized multiple times, although it’s not recommended. Ultimately it comes down to the skillset of the jeweler you are working with. 

How long does ring resizing take?

The time required for ring resizing can vary depending on the jeweler’s workload and the complexity of the resizing needed. Simple resizing can often be completed within a few days, while more intricate resizing or adjustments may take longer. It’s best to inquire with the jeweler about their estimated timeline.

Will resizing affect the appearance or quality of the ring?

Resizing can potentially affect the appearance and quality of the ring, especially if it involves significant adjustments. Precious metal rings may require refinishing or repolishing after resizing to restore their original appearance.

Additionally, intricate designs or gemstone settings may be impacted during the resizing process. A skilled jeweler will take precautions to minimize any potential negative effects.

How much does ring resizing cost?

The cost of ring resizing can vary depending on factors such as the material, complexity, and any additional work required, such as gemstone removal and resetting. Some jewelers offer complimentary resizing within a specified timeframe after purchase, while others charge a fee. It’s advisable to inquire about the cost beforehand to understand the potential expenses involved.

Can rings be resized multiple times?

Rings can typically be resized multiple times, but each resizing may have limitations. Repeated resizing can affect the structural integrity of the ring or lead to visible signs of alteration. It’s best to consult a jeweler who can assess the ring’s condition and advise on the feasibility of further resizing.

Remember, these are general answers, and it’s always recommended to consult with a professional jeweler who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific ring and resizing needs.

Can I Measure My Ring Size Myself to be Sure?

Of course you can. Head over to the women’s ring size guide, or the mens. Measure yourself and compare with the jewelers. You can also buy ring sizers on amazon to measure the size of your ring or your finger. (It’s less than $10 for both).