Ring Sizing!
- Connie Raby
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
We do a lot of resizing of rings here at Innsbruck Jewelers, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you. Our usual turnaround time is about a week and a half. Below are some common answers to a lot of the questions around ring resizing.
Why Accurate Sizing Matters
Comfort: A well-fitting ring feels natural, not a bother.
Security: Prevents loss due to slipping off, especially valuable or sentimental rings.
Appearance: A ring that fits well looks better on your finger.
Health (for tight rings): Can restrict circulation or cause discomfort.
How Ring Sizing Works (The Basics)
Standard Sizing Systems:
US/Canada: Numbers with half sizes (e.g., 6, 6.5, 7).
UK/Australia: Letters with half letters (e.g., L, L 1/2, M).
European/Asian: Circumference in millimeters.
Factors Affecting Ring Size:
Time of Day: Fingers swell slightly throughout the day (best to measure mid-day/evening).
Temperature: Cold fingers shrink, warm fingers swell.
Activity Level: Swelling after exercise.
Weight Fluctuations: Significant changes can affect finger size.
Knuckle Size: Your knuckle might be wider than the base of your finger – the ring needs to clear the knuckle but not spin excessively once on.
Ring Band Width: Wider bands generally fit tighter; you might need to go up a quarter or half size for very wide bands.
Methods for Accurate Ring Sizing
Professional Sizing (Highly Recommended!)
Visit a local jeweler, like Innsbruck Jewelers :)
They have accurate tools (ring sizers, mandrels).
They can account for knuckle size and offer expert advice.
Quotes for sizing rings must be done in person, as fingers and rings are all different, sizing up, down, how many stones are on the ring,what is the millimeter of the ring? is it gold; what karat, silver? all make a difference on price.
Stealthy Sizing for a Surprise (e.g., Proposal)
Ask a close friend or family member for their size.
Compare your finger to theirs if they wear a similar size.
(Caution: These methods are less precise but can get you in the ballpark.) See below!
At Innsbruck Jewelers, if you purchase an engagement ring thru us, we recommend using the rings stock size (7), if possible, then have your fiance come in to get sized by us and we will do that at no charge!
What to Do If Your Ring Doesn't Fit Perfectly
Resizing: Most rings can be resized by a jeweler. Mention limitations (e.g., some eternity bands, tension settings, very intricate designs).
Ring Guards/Sizers: Temporary solutions for rings that are slightly too loose.
Embrace It: Sometimes a slightly larger ring can be worn on another finger.
Cut it off: In some cases, we need to cut a ring off. We don't charge for this service and you can just call us to let us know your on your way. We will have you come back in a few weeks to resize your ring, as we want to wait for any swelling to go down before we resize your finger so it is as accurate as possible for the resize.
***If your finger was in an accident, redness and noticeable major swelling; we will advise you to go to the nearest ER to get your ring removed.
Please see videos below for some insight into how a ring is sized by a jeweler:
Ring sizing is mostly labor for the goldsmith, and that is where most of the cost of sizing is from. If there are no gemstones that are heat sensitive, we will use the torch to size your ring. If there are heat sensitive stones ( gemstones such as amethyst, Lapis, turquoise, and many others) we will use our laser to size your ring. Some rings, mostly bands that have NO stones and are gold, can be stretched up a size and also compressed for a smaller size.
All contemporary metals such as titanium, cobalt, zirconium, stainless steel; cannot be sized. These metals need extreme heat, which a goldsmiths tools cannot provide to anneal the metal for sizing or repair.
If you have any questions or need any jewelry repair, ring resizing, custom design and more! Give Innsbruck Jewelers a call 651-636-0106.
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