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Wearing a ring that’s too big can be quite inconvenient. It slips around, doesn’t feel comfortable, or could even slide off and get lost. Fortunately, there are several ways to make a ring smaller. Some solutions are temporary, while others are permanent. In this article, we’ll go over the most common methods, along with their pros and cons.
How does it work?
With ring resizers, such as silicone adjusters or special ring sleeves, you can temporarily fill the inside of your ring so it fits more snugly on your finger.
Pros:
Cheap and quick solution
No damage to the ring
Ideal if your size changes temporarily (e.g., during pregnancy)
Cons:
Not as comfortable as a perfectly fitting ring
Temporary; resizers can wear out with frequent use
Best situation:
When your ring is only temporarily too large, or if you’re not yet sure about resizing it permanently.
How does it work?
A jeweler can place a small metal strip or ball on the inside of the ring. This slightly reduces the circumference without sawing the band open.
Pros:
Relatively simple adjustment by a jeweler
Suitable for rings that are just a little too large
Often invisible from the outside
Cons:
Can cause some discomfort with long-term wear
Not always suitable for very thin or delicate rings
Best situation:
When your ring is just slightly too big and you prefer not to make a permanent change.
How does it work?
The jeweler cuts a small piece out of the band, brings the ends together, and solders it closed again. The ring is then polished so no trace of the work remains.
Pros:
Durable, permanent solution
Ring fits like new and stays secure
Suitable for most materials and designs
Cons:
Only possible with precious metals like gold, platinum, or silver
More difficult with complex designs (e.g., stones all around)
More expensive than temporary fixes
Best situation:
When your ring is consistently too large and you’re certain you want to keep wearing it.
How does it work?
Some rings can be fitted with a special spring mechanism on the inside. This allows the ring to adjust slightly to the thickness of your finger.
Pros:
Comfortable to wear
Ring stays secure, even with minor finger size changes
Cons:
Not suitable for every ring
Requires craftsmanship from a skilled jeweler
Best situation:
For people whose fingers frequently change size (e.g., due to temperature or fluid retention).
How does it work?
Some people use tape, string, or a small piece of silicone tubing to make a ring fit more tightly.
Pros:
Quick fix
No cost
Cons:
Uncomfortable and not stylish
Not suitable for long-term use
Best situation:
Only as a temporary emergency solution until you can have the ring professionally adjusted.
| Method | How it works | Pros | Cons | Best situation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ring resizer (silicone) | Fill the inside of the ring | Cheap, temporary, no damage | Wears out, less comfortable | Temporary fix |
| Insert (strips/balls) | Add metal inside the band | Invisible, fairly simple | May irritate, not always suitable | Ring slightly too big |
| Jeweler resizing | Cut and solder the ring | Permanent, safe, durable | Pricier, not for all designs | Structurally too large ring |
| Spring mechanism | Flexible inner mechanism | Comfortable, adapts to changes | Not always possible | Changing finger size |
| DIY fixes | Tape, string, silicone tubing | Free, quick solution | Uncomfortable, temporary | Only as an emergency solution |
Want to make sure your ring is the right size? Check out our blog: How Tight Should a Ring Fit?
And explore our collection of beautiful vintage rings for inspiration or to find a new favorite piece.
