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There are many reasons why you should resize your ring. You might have received it as a gift, want your engagement ring fit to size, or want to get your favourite piece of jewellery adjusted to ensure it fits you perfectly.
In the UK, there are many places in which you can get your ring resized, but just how much will this cost you? Our helpful guide will answer all of your questions about the process.
How much will it cost to resize my ring?
The cost to resize your ring depends on many factors, including the size increase or decrease, the type of metal, and the complexity of the ring design and stone setting. However, in the UK, you can expect to pay anywhere between £20 – £200 for a ring resizing.
More specifically, an everyday silver ring could cost you up to £40, whilst a platinum engagement ring could cost you up to £200. Again, the price is impacted by the change in size you require, the stone setting and even the location of the jeweller. Later in the guide, we’ll cover exactly what factors affect the ring resizing cost.
How do jewellers resize rings?
If you want to make a ring smaller or larger, you can take your ring to a professional jeweller who will recommend a type of ring resizing technique best suited to your ring and your requirements. Jewellers use three main methods to resize a ring; however, cutting and soldering are the most common.
1. Cutting and soldering
The most common way jewellers make rings smaller or larger is through cutting and soldering. This method involves cutting a small metal section out of the ring band and then soldering the two ends together. Gold, silver and platinum rings can be resized in this way.
2. Stretching
Another method of resizing a ring is through stretching. This method is uncommon and primarily used on gold and silver rings rather than platinum or those with gemstones. Stretching involves using a unique tool that stretches the ring band to a larger size.
3. Ring resizing beads
Resizing beads is often a last resort if you can’t get your ring resized using cutting, soldering, or stretching techniques. Ring resizing beads are soldered to the interior of the ring band and can be used to go down around three sizes. They are also an alternative to avoid damage to the ring’s exterior.
Do different materials affect the cost of resizing a ring?
The type of metal that your ring is made out of can have a direct impact on the cost. Softer metals, like silver and gold, are easier to resize than harder metals, such as platinum. Softer metals are more malleable, so resizing them is less expensive than resizing a ring made of a more rigid metal.
Cost of resizing a silver ring
The resizing cost of a silver ring is typically between £20 – £40.
Cost of resizing a gold ring
The resizing cost of a gold ring is typically between £40 – £80.
Cost of resizing a platinum ring
The resizing cost of a platinum ring is typically between £80 – £120.
Which types of rings are hard to resize?
Aside from the common metals, other factors can impact the ring resizing cost. This is why getting a professional to evaluate your ring and your unique circumstances is essential. Let’s look at what else can impact the cost of ring resizing.
Types of metal which are challenging to resize
Not all rings are made of gold, silver or platinum. Other rarer materials can mean your ring resizing may take more work. These ring materials include:
- Stainless steel
- Titanium
- Tungsten
- Palladium
The physical properties of these different materials make them tougher, more durable, and ultimately more complicated for the jeweller to resize the ring. Resizing these rings will often require specialist equipment and experience; therefore, you might have to pay more for a specially skilled craftsman.
Ring features which make resizing difficult
Aside from the metal composition of the ring, the complexity of the ring can make it difficult to resize a ring and often cause the price to increase, too. Rings can be adorned with rare gems, twisted into intricate patterns and engraved with personal etchings. These can make it more challenging for the jeweller to make a ring smaller or bigger.
- Gemstones: Rings with gemstones can be difficult to resize, especially if the gemstones are large or intricate, as the jeweller needs to be careful not to damage the stone.
- Intricate patterns: Detailing such as filigree or pavé can be difficult for a jeweller to resize, as it could compromise the ring’s structure.
- Eternity rings: Eternity bands have a continuous circle of gemstones or metal, which makes them difficult to resize.
- Engravings: Engravings on the band’s interior can mean that a cut or stretch to the metal may damage the etching.
- Tension set rings: Tension set rings have gemstones held in place by the tension of the ring band; resizing can damage the band’s integrity.
If you’re looking to resize a ring for more than three sizes, the jeweller may also advise that the structure and appearance of the ring could change dramatically. It’s best to get a ring resizing valuation to determine the cost of resizing, depending on the features and metal composition of the ring.
Top tips for getting your ring resized
As you’ve seen throughout this article, getting your ring resized can be a tricky process, with many factors affecting the cost. That’s why we’ve put together some top tips for resizing your ring that can help you avoid problems down the road.
1. Retain your cut out
Retaining the section of the band that the jeweller removes is a great option to keep in mind. If you’ve got a higher-value ring, such as platinum, it’s wise to ask the jeweller to give you the section of the band they removed.
Not only do you have the specific size ready for if you need another resizing, but you also have the exact amount of the suitable metal ready. Retaining your cut-out is more commonly done with engagement or wedding rings, as the size of your finger can change dramatically over a lifetime, especially throughout pregnancy.
2. Shop around…
Different jewellers may charge different prices for ring resizing. It’s a good idea to shop around and get quotes from a few other jewellers before you make a final decision.
If you have a unique ring with a particular metal, gemstone, or detailing, you may want to shop around to find a jeweller with more experience in that area of work. Taking your time to shop can save you money on resizing, too.
3. …But choose a reputable jeweller
Although it’s good to shop around and get various quotes, choosing a jeweller with a stellar reputation is crucial! Here are some tips for choosing a reputable jeweller:
- Make sure you read their online reviews.
- See if the jeweller is a part of the National Association of Jewellers (NAJ) or the British Jewellers Association (BJA).
- Ask if the jeweller offers a warranty on their work at the valuation.
- Ask your family and friends for their recommendations.
Choosing a highly regarded jeweller is especially important if you want a valuable ring resized.
4. Ask about the turnaround time
Once you’ve found the perfect jeweller, ask about the turnaround time. This is how long it will take for the jeweller to resize your ring and return it to you. The turnaround time can vary depending on the job’s complexity, so you must understand how long you’ll be apart from the ring.
For more straightforward ring resizing, you could see the ring returned within a few days. However, a complex ring could take up to a few weeks. This is especially important if you have a specific date you need the ring by.
5. Be aware of the different ring resizing methods
When you request how much it will cost to resize your ring, it’s good to be mindful of the different methods the jeweller might discuss. Knowing the various techniques of resizing and the reasons that it may cost more to resize will help you easily discuss your requirements and understand why the resizing is a specific price.
6. Find a temporary solution while you wait
If you’re spending time finding the right reputable jeweller, you may want to consider a temporary ring resizing solution while you wait. This can mean you can wear your unique ring without risking losing it, although it’s not a final solution.
Your first option is a ring size adjuster, a small piece of plastic that fits around the inside of your ring to make it smaller. Your second option is a ring guard, a small metal or silicone device that fits over your ring to keep it from slipping off. You can find these at most jewellery shops.
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Should I get my ring insured before or after my resizing?
You should get your ring insured before you get a ring resized. Ring resizing can sometimes damage the ring, especially if it is made of soft metal, has gemstones, or has intricate detailing that makes it irreplaceable.
If you get jewellery insurance on your ring before sending it for resizing, you will be financially protected if it is damaged or lost during the resizing process. Not all jewellery insurance policies cover repairing or replacing your ring if it’s damaged or lost with a jeweller, but our Stanhope Insurance policy does. This means you won’t have any added costs if anything happens to your ring during the resizing process should you proceed with our product.
Protect your ring with premium insurance from Stanhope
Stanhope is a leading provider of premium jewellery insurance. We understand your jewellery, such as engagement and wedding rings, are your prized possessions. Our policies offer comprehensive coverage for your ring, including accidental damage, theft and loss.
If you are having your ring resized, it is imperative to get it insured. Resizing can sometimes damage rings, and Stanhope’s insurance will protect you if this happens. Get a hassle-free quote today for either jewellery insurance or engagement ring insurance, and have the peace of mind of knowing that your ring is covered.
Get your insurance quote today, or simply get in touch with us, and we’ll help you answer any questions and help you find the right policy for your ring.