Jewelry shopping can be intimidating. That’s why we started Ask Holden, our blog where we answer your FAQs, break down scary industry lingo, and guide you in finding the perfect piece of jewelry.
If you’re looking to figure out your ring size or learn more about the ring resizing process, then you’ve come to the right place! Ring sizing and resizing can be rather tricky, especially if you haven’t worn much jewelry before. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know.
Ring Sizing
Here at Holden, we size all of our rings on the standard US and Canadian sizing scale. The sizing is universal for all genders (e.g. there is no such thing as a ring size chart for women only) and go up in half size increments starting from 0. If you’re in between half sizes, quarter sizes are possible -- just email us here! Countries outside of the US and Canada use different ring size guides. Here is a ring size chart which includes European ring sizes and mm to ring size conversions.
Our free ring size kit is the easiest way to accurately determine your ring size from the comfort of your own home! So how should a ring fit? How tight should a ring be? When you feel that the ring is snug in the final wearing position, and you feel resistance when you slide it past your knuckle, then you’ve found your proper ring size.
There is no such thing as an average ring size for men or an average ring size for women as each individual is unique. One interesting fact is that for most people, each finger on their dominant hand will be about a quarter or half size larger than the corresponding finger on their non-dominant hand!
Can Rings Be Resized?
If you’re wondering can rings be resized?—yes, most of them can, depending on their style and material. Yes, most of them can, depending on their style and material. Simple bands made of solid gold, platinum, or silver are usually the easiest to resize. Rings with intricate designs, full eternity bands, or stones set all the way around may be more difficult or sometimes not resizable at all. At Holden, we can resize most rings up or down by one full size. If you're not sure whether your ring can be resized, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is happy to guide you through your options.
How to Resize a Ring
Resizing rings is fairly simple. If the ring needs to be resized up to a larger size, it is placed on a mandrel and stretched. If it needs to be resized down, it is placed in a base plate and compressed. In some cases, depending on the design of the ring, the band will be cut and a small amount of metal will be added or removed before being soldered back together and polished, leaving no indication of the original cut. In most cases, rings can be resized up or down one full size from the original size.
How Much Does It Cost to Resize a Ring?
The cost of resizing a ring will vary from store to store but typically is around $75-$100. At Holden, we offer one free ring resizing within 60 days of delivery through our Lifetime Guarantee. Customers who purchased an Extend Protection Plan and are within the coverage term can file claims for additional resizing services once our 60-day complimentary resizing period has passed. You can reach out to Extend’s virtual claims assistant here or call 877.248.7707 to get the process started.
How Long Does It Take to Resize a Ring?
It takes us about two weeks from receiving the ring to having it arrive back at your door.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Each time a ring undergoes resizing, a small amount of material is lost, which can weaken the band over timet. We don’t recommend resizing your ring more than once in order to maintain the ring’s maximum integrity.
- Some rings, like full eternity bands or rings with intricate designs, cannot be resized due to their design.
- The size of your finger can swell or shrink by about a quarter size day to day due to changes in the weather, temperature, and amount of physical activity, and up to a half size due to the changing of seasons.
- If at first wear, your ring feels a bit tight or loose, we recommend wearing it for a few weeks to see if you find it fitting a bit better under different conditions.
- There is a tendency, especially if you aren’t used to wearing rings, to overestimate your size. Furthermore, the vast majority of our resizing requests are to size down. If you feel you are in between sizes, we recommend going with the smaller size.
Questions? Give us a shout at help@hiholden.com or a ring (pun intended) at 646.722.6817.
FAQs
1. Can rings be resized?
Yes! Most rings can be resized, especially if they’re made from materials like gold or platinum. At Holden, we offer one free ring resizing within 60 days of delivery. Some styles like full eternity bands can’t be resized due to their design, so it’s always best to check with us first.
2. How does ring resizing work?
The ring resizing process depends on whether you're sizing up or down. To size up, the ring is carefully stretched; to size down, it may be compressed or cut and soldered to a smaller size. Either way, our team polishes and finishes it so the change is invisible.
3. How much does it cost to resize a ring?
It typically costs $75–$100 to resize a ring at most jewelers. However, at Holden, your first ring resizing is free within 60 days. If you have an Extend Protection Plan, you may also qualify for additional coverage beyond that window.
4. How long does ring resizing take?
Our ring resizing service usually takes about two weeks from when we receive your ring to when it’s delivered back to you. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way!
5. What’s the best way to find my ring size at home?
Order our free ring size kit—it’s the most accurate way to measure your size from home. A properly fitting ring should feel snug at the base of your finger and require a slight push over your knuckle.
6. Should I size up or down if I’m between ring sizes?
If you're between sizes, we usually recommend sizing down. Many resizing requests we get are from customers who initially ordered too large. Plus, most fingers are slightly smaller when cold or inactive.
7. Can ring resizing weaken the ring?
Over time, repeated ring resizing can affect the ring’s structural integrity, especially if it’s done multiple times. That’s why we recommend resizing only once whenever possible to keep your piece strong and long-lasting.
About Holden
Your ring should do more than sparkle—it should stand for something. Holden’s engagement rings and wedding rings are handcrafted in NYC using recycled metals and lab-grown diamonds. Whether you’re drawn to the powerful geometry of a Signet Ring, the stackable elegance of a Curved Band, or the symbolic beauty of a Gemstone piece, your jewelry should reflect your values.