|
Certainly, the size of a silver ring can be adjusted to make it larger, and this process is typically carried out by a skilled professional, either a lapidary or a silver smith. Here's a detailed explanation of how silver rings can be resized to a larger size:
**1. Evaluation: When you decide to make a silver ring larger, the first step is to have the ring evaluated by a professional. They will assess its current size, design, and structure to determine the feasibility of resizing.
**2. Professional Expertise: Both lapidaries and silver smiths are skilled artisans, but their expertise lies in different areas. A lapidary is more focused on working with gemstones, while a silver smith specializes in working with metals, including silver.
**3. Understanding the Ring Design: The process of making a silver ring larger involves manipulating the metal. The professional needs to understand the design intricacies, any stones set in the ring, and how resizing might affect the overall aesthetics.
**4. Metal Manipulation: To make a silver ring larger, a silver smith will typically cut the ring shank (the part that goes around your finger) and then add a piece of additional silver. The new section is seamlessly soldered into place.
**5. Matching the Metal: A skilled artisan ensures that the added section matches the original metal both in color and texture. This involves careful selection of silver and precise soldering techniques to maintain the integrity of the ring.
**6. Stone Considerations: If the ring contains gemstones, the lapidary or silver smith must take extra care. Some stones may not withstand the heat generated during soldering, and they might need to be removed and reset after resizing.
**7. Sizing Up with Gemstones: For rings with gemstones, a lapidary may be involved in the process to ensure that the stones are securely set and undamaged during the resizing. They may also need to adjust the setting to accommodate the changes.
**8. Finishing Touches: Once the resizing is complete, the ring undergoes a finishing process. This includes polishing to restore its luster and refining any details that may have been affected during the resizing.
**9. Quality Check: Before returning the resized ring to the owner, a thorough quality check is conducted. This includes ensuring the ring is the correct size, inspecting the soldering for durability, and confirming that any gemstones are securely set.
**10. Communication with the Owner: Throughout the process, good communication with the owner is essential. The lapidary or silver smith may provide insights into potential changes in the appearance of the ring and any considerations for future resizing.
**11. Cost Considerations: The cost of resizing a silver ring can vary based on factors like the complexity of the design, the amount of additional silver needed, and the presence of gemstones. Owners should discuss the cost and time frame with the professional beforehand.
Whether your ring is a treasured heirloom or a recent purchase, resizing by a skilled lapidary or silver smith can ensure that it fits comfortably and maintains its original beauty. Always choose a reputable professional with experience in working with silver and, if applicable, gemstones.
|
