Ring reduction and reduction is a repair process to reduce the size of the ring and is usually done by an expert jeweler. In this process, a piece is removed from the bottom of the ring and re-welded, then the ring is smoothed. Process time and cost may vary depending on the material and design of the ring. This process ensures that the ring is made to fit the new finger size.
What is Ring Reduction?
Ring reduction is the process of reducing the diameter of a ring. This is a jewelry process that is done when the ring does not fit the finger size. A piece is removed from the bottom of the ring and then the remaining two pieces are welded together. After the process, the ring is completed in a smaller size and in a neat way. This allows the ring to be re-fitted to the person without distorting its shape.
When Is Ring Reduction Necessary?
Ring reduction surgery may be necessary in the following situations:
Buying the Wrong Ring Size: If the ring is larger than your finger size, it may need to be tapered.
Finger Size Shrinks Over Time: In some people, fingers shrink over time due to reasons such as weight loss or cold weather, in which case old rings may not be comfortable to wear.
Temporary Swelling Relief: Due to swelling or edema, the ring may not fit the finger temporarily, although it can be worn normally. Reduction can be done to make it fit again once the swelling has passed.
Ring reduction is a process performed to ensure that the ring can be worn comfortably and fits the finger perfectly, and should be done professionally by jewelers.
How is Ring Reduction Performed?
Ring reduction is a process that is carefully done by a jeweler and consists of several stages. The steps are as follows:
Determining Ring Size: The jeweler will measure your finger size to determine how much the ring needs to be reduced. This step is important to get the right size ring.
Removing a Piece of the Ring: A piece is removed from the bottom of the ring, equal to the desired size reduction. The removed piece will be enough to narrow the diameter of the ring.
Re-welding the Ring: The removed piece is fused with the remaining part of the ring. This process ensures that the ring is properly joined.
Shape Correction: The welded part of the ring is sanded until a smooth surface is obtained. In addition, if there are stones or patterns, they are carefully shaped so as not to be damaged.
Polish and Final Checks: The ring is finally polished to give it a shine and final checks are made. The ring size now fits your finger size exactly.
Things to Consider During the Ring Reduction Process
Ring Material: The material the ring is made of (gold, silver, platinum, etc.) affects the process. Especially in hard metals (e.g. platinum), the reduction process should be done more carefully. It is important that your jeweler is experienced in this regard.
Rings with Stones : If there are stones on the ring, special precautions should be taken before the reduction process to prevent damage to the stones. The jeweler should perform the process without removing the stones or remove the stones from their place and re-insert them safely.
Ring Design: If the ring design is very intricate (for example, if there are fine details, patterns, or special workmanship), care should be taken not to distort the design during the shrinking process. A good jeweler will take care to preserve the design.
Original Structure of the Ring: Some rings may not be suitable for reduction. In particular, rings that are very thin or have a certain design may become weak or aesthetically impaired after reduction.
Major Alterations: If the ring needs to be reduced too much, it can create stress on the structure of the ring. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to how much the ring needs to be reduced before the reduction is made.
How Long Does the Ring Reduction Procedure Take and Is It Difficult?
Duration
Simple Procedures: If the ring is simple in design and has no stones, the narrowing process can usually be completed in 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Stoned and Intricate Designs: If the ring has stones or an intricate design, the process may take up to 1-2 hours. This requires the removal of stones and careful preservation of the ring's design.
Difficulty Level
Simple Rings: A simple ring reduction can usually be easily done by an experienced jeweler. The jeweler completes the process by removing a piece from the bottom of the ring.
Stoned and Complex Rings: The process should be done more carefully in rings with stones because the stones can become dislodged or damaged. Also, in rings with complex patterns, it may be more difficult to preserve the design during the reduction process.
Conclusion:
Ring reduction is usually done in a short time and is not difficult. However, it is a process that requires attention and expertise in stones or complex designs. The duration and difficulty level may vary depending on the experience of your jeweler.
What are the methods to reduce ring size at home?
Ring Wearing Method
How to: If your ring is a bit big and you don't need to shrink it right away, you can use a tampon or soft material to fit the bottom of the ring. This will help the ring sit on your finger.
Application: You can make the ring tighter by placing a piece of cotton, silicone tape or special ring pads inside the ring. This method is a temporary solution and is not ideal for long-term use.
Silicone Ring Cover
How to: Silicone ring liners are an option to help keep the ring in a tighter position. These liners are glued to the bottom of the ring to make your size more comfortable.
Application: You can purchase and apply silicone ring coating from jewelers or online retailers. This will prevent the ring from slipping and provides a temporary solution.
Hot Water and Soap Method (Temporary)
How to: After putting your ring in warm soapy water and waiting for a few minutes, you can put the ring on your finger to make it firmer.
Application: Instead of changing the size of the ring, it creates a temporary solution due to the shape of your finger. This method provides a temporary solution to keep the ring tight.
Closing the Ring Inside (Difficult Method)
How to: An impractical but tried method at home is to put a small metal piece or cap on the inside of the ring. This physically shrinks the ring, but can cause damage to the ring.
Application: Since it requires metalworking, only experienced people should attempt this. It is not a recommended method at home .
What Should Be Considered After Ring Reduction?
Don't Put the Ring On Immediately
After the ring has been narrowed, it is important to check that the ring has been properly fitted within the time given by the jeweler. During this time, it may be necessary to wait for the structure of the ring to dry and solidify completely.
Check if the ring size is correct
After the ring has been tapered, make sure the ring fits your finger properly. If the ring is too tight or too loose, you may need to go back to a jeweler.
Pay Attention to the Design of the Ring
During the ring reduction process, care should be taken to ensure that the design is not distorted. If the ring has stones, check that the stones are properly set. Likewise, if there are patterns or special workmanship, make sure that the ring retains its original state.
Protect the Ring from Water and Chemicals
Once the ring has been shrunk, it should be protected from water and chemicals, especially rings with stones or precious metals. Soapy water, perfume, lotions or cleaning products can leave marks on the ring or damage the metal.
