Resizing a Vintage Engagement Ring
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
Whether you’ve just found the perfect vintage engagement ring for that very special question or you’ve already been wearing a treasured heirloom ring for many happy anniversaries, it can be distressing if it starts to feel a bit snug or a bit too loose. Resizing a vintage engagement ring can be a delicate operation and it is essential that it be done with great care and expertise to protect the integrity and beauty of your vintage ring.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- Why Ring Size Matters!
- To Resize or Not to Resize
- Tips for Resizing a Vintage Engagement Ring
- Inspections
- Care
- Working With the Right Jeweler
- How To Care for a Resized Vintage Ring
Why Ring Size Matters!
Proper ring size is critical. Too large and a ring might be lost or will be susceptible to damage if it is not seated correctly on the finger and might bang on other surfaces. This can loosen stones, create nicks and chips, and otherwise create far more wear and tear on the ring than necessary.
If a ring is too small, it will be difficult – if not impossible – to take on and off smoothly. This risks warping and damage if it must be tugged or pried to be removed, or in extreme circumstances, if it must be cut away. A too-tight ring can also cut into one’s circulation and cause pain, making it far less pleasurable to wear even the most beautiful vintage engagement ring.
• To Resize or Not to Resize
There are many reasons why a ring might need to be resized over the years. Everyone’s fingers and hands are different sizes and have different proportions, and natural weight fluctuations can impact finger sizes. Arthritis or other joint problems might cause knuckles to swell and rings to become more difficult to remove, while water retention might be an ongoing challenge to ring sizes. Hand injuries can also cause changes in ring size.
Furthermore, if the ring is presented at a young age – I received my engagement ring when I was just 18 – the fingers don’t actually stop growing until in one’s early or mid-20s and resizing might be essential. This can be especially true for antique and vintage engagement rings, because in years past, the average age of marriage was much younger – meaning the rings would be proportionally smaller for younger fingers.
For example, to be considered “vintage” a ring should be at least 20 but up to 100 years old. In the 1920s the average age for a woman to marry marriage was just 20 or 21. Today, that average age is closer to 29 – which could be quite the difference in ring size!
A little known tip – if the marriage proposal has not yet been made, it may be best to wait for resizing until after the question has been asked and accepted. That way, the correct size can be assured and not a guesstimate, especially if the proposal will be a surprise.
Tips for Resizing a Vintage Engagement Ring
Before jumping straight to resizing, it’s important to note why a vintage engagement ring may no longer fit comfortably. If the situation is temporary – weight gained during a pregnancy or swollen fingers due to a recent injury, for example – no resizing may be necessary. Because of a vintage ring’s age, frequent resizing, particularly if the size differences are significant, could weaken the ring’s integrity and make it more vulnerable to damage. There may also be ways to “resize” a ring without major changes. Small bridges or sizing beads could be added to a too-large ring to make it fit more comfortably, and those minor additions could be much more easily removed in the future if the previous larger size needs to be restored.
• Inspections
If a vintage engagement ring definitely needs to be resized, first have the ring thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and appraised, along with pre-work photos. This will take note of any existing damage or imperfections and is a necessary step in case of insurance claims or disputes about the quality of the resizing work. At the same time, confirm the necessary size adjustment as accurately as possible to ensure it can be done well. Find a reputable, experienced jeweler who has worked with vintage pieces and feels comfortable with necessary work. They should be willing to discuss the resizing process in detail so you thoroughly understand what is necessary to make your ring fit more comfortably. This should include any potential changes to the overall design if needed to accommodate the size change.
• Care
Great care should be taken with the entire resizing process, particularly to protect the ring’s stones. This is especially true if the ring uses alternative gemstones rather than diamonds, which may have different durability and care needs. Different gems – emerald, topaz, ruby, opal, garnet, aquamarine, citrine, and more – are especially popular in vintage engagement rings, and they must be treated carefully. After the resizing is complete, the ring should be inspected again to ensure there has been no unexpected damage or any weaknesses introduced to the overall design (which may be inevitable, but does need to be noted for proper ongoing care!). Ask how to keep the ring looking its very best, including storage, cleaning, and regular inspections.
Finally, slip on your perfectly sized vintage engagement ring and wear it with the distinction and love it deserves!
Suzanne Sachs
Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.
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