Resizing a tight ring typically involves professional intervention from a jeweler. There are several methods they employ to make a ring larger.
Ring Resizing Methods
A jeweler can use a few different techniques to enlarge a ring that's too small:
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Cutting and Soldering: This common method involves carefully cutting the ring band, usually at the bottom where it's least visible. The jeweler then adds a small piece of metal and solders the pieces back together, creating a seamless, enlarged ring. This is described in the provided reference.
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Stretching: For some softer metals, the jeweler might use specialized tools to gently stretch the ring, making it larger. This method is usually less precise than cutting and soldering and is less suitable for rings with intricate designs or gemstones.
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Adding Metal: In some cases, the jeweler may add more metal to the band, typically on the inside, to increase the ring's size. This is often used when the ring needs to be significantly enlarged.
Choosing the Right Method
The best resizing method depends on several factors:
- The type of metal: Softer metals like gold are more easily stretched, while harder metals like platinum usually require cutting and soldering.
- The ring's design: Intricate designs or embedded stones might necessitate cutting and soldering to avoid damaging the ring.
- The amount of resizing needed: Small adjustments might be done by stretching, while larger increases in size usually need metal addition or cutting and soldering.
It's crucial to have a ring resized by a professional jeweler to ensure the integrity of the ring and avoid damage. Improper resizing can weaken the metal and lead to breakage.