When Your Ring Arrives Wrong: Damage and Sizing Issues
The Reality Check
Ring sizing issues are incredibly common, but they're not always about manufacturing mistakes. Many rings arrive either too tight or too loose due to inconsistent sizing tools or because wider bands naturally fit tighter than narrow ones. Life also affects how your ring fits over time through weight changes, seasonal swelling, pregnancy, medication, or simply the natural ageing process.
Then there are actual errors: rings damaged in shipping, sized incorrectly, or most frustratingly, getting the wrong ring back after sending it in for resizing. These mix-ups happen more often than anyone wants to admit, and it's definitely a red flag if this happens to you.
Your Immediate Action Plan
Start by documenting everything. Take clear photos and videos immediately showing the ring, packaging, and any visible damage. This isn't being dramatic, it's protecting yourself. Document everything in a Word document and convert to PDF when sending, which allows you to attach notes above images and draw arrows to specific issues. The more information you provide, the smoother the resolution process goes.
Next, contact the seller fast. Don't wait. Under Australian Consumer Law, businesses must offer consumers a solution when products don't meet basic rights, and they can't pass the buck or make excuses. Send your evidence and be clear about what you want.
Finally, know your rights. Under Australian Consumer Law, when a product has a major problem, you get to choose between a refund or replacement. A damaged or significantly wrong-sized engagement ring definitely qualifies, and it's illegal for businesses to refuse based on "store policy."
If they sent you a size Z when you ordered a J, that's their mistake because the product you received isn't what you ordered. However, if you ordered a J and now you're an E because your finger size changed, that's sadly not covered under consumer law and you'd need to pay for resizing. The key difference is whether the ring matches what you actually ordered versus whether it still fits your current finger size.
Real Language That Gets Results
Instead of: "I'm not happy with this ring"
Say: "I am requesting a replacement/refund under Australian Consumer Law guarantees for a product that doesn't match the description/arrived damaged."
Instead of: "This ring doesn't fit properly"
Say: "I ordered a size J ring but received a size M. This is not the product I purchased and I'm entitled to a refund or replacement under consumer guarantees."
Instead of: "Can you please help me with this problem?"
Say: "This ring arrived with visible scratches/bent prongs. As this is a major failure, I am choosing a full refund under my consumer law rights."
Instead of: "I think there might be an issue"
Say: "The stone setting is loose and poses a safety risk. I require an immediate replacement as this product is not of acceptable quality."
Instead of: "I'd like to return this if possible"
Say: "This engagement ring does not match the specifications I ordered. I am exercising my right to a refund under Australian Consumer Law."
The Rattling Stone Situation
If you're wondering "should a stone ever rattle in a ring?" the answer is simple: no stone should be rattling in its setting, ever. Red flags everywhere.
Signs Your Stone Needs Attention
Your stone is loose if it shifts or wiggles when you touch it gently. Look for raised or worn-out prongs, any rattling sounds, or visible movement when you gently press the stone.
What To Do Right Now
Stop wearing it immediately. This isn't overcautious, it's smart, because you're one bump away from losing a stone. Get professional help, as most ring repairs in Australia are completed within 3 to 10 days by jewellers.
Resizing Reality: Costs, Times, and What's Possible
The average cost of ring resizing in Australia ranges from $75 to $200, depending on complexity:
- Simple gold/silver band: Around $130 for one or two sizes
- Complex designs with stones: $150 to $500 or more
- Premium services: Starting from $155 with 2 to 10 day turnaround
What Can and Can't Be Resized
Some rings cannot be resized at all:
- Titanium and tungsten rings cannot be resized because of extreme hardness
- Ring styles featuring diamonds or gemstones set all the way around the band cannot be resized (easily)
For most solitaire rings, you can resize as much as you need, whilst rings with diamonds depend on the style but generally up to 3 to 4 sizes is manageable.
Your Rights Under Australian Consumer Law
The Non-Negotiables
Products must be safe, match their description, and be fit for purpose. For major problems, you can choose between a refund, repair, or replacement as outlined by Consumer Affairs Victoria. Depending on where you're located, make sure to check your local government guidance on this matter.
How to Invoke Your Rights Effectively
Contact the business directly stating you're invoking rights under Australian Consumer Law, be specific by explaining the problem clearly with proof of purchase, request written responses to maintain a paper trail, and escalate to ACCC or state consumer regulator if the issue remains unresolved.
Sample Language That Works
"My engagement ring [describe issue] does not meet consumer guarantees under Australian Consumer Law. I am requesting [refund/repair/replacement] and need this resolved within a reasonable timeframe. Please confirm your solution in writing."
Insurance and Protection: The Smart Investment
What to Look For
Specialist jewellery insurance covers loss, theft, and accidental damage worldwide. Choose agreed value policies to avoid depreciation arguments, ensure repair coverage that lets you choose your preferred jeweller, and confirm worldwide coverage for travel and daily wear.
We're not affiliated with any of the following, but they're worth checking out: Mastercare, Jewel Cover, and Q Report.
Filing Claims: Language That Gets Results
"My engagement ring (policy number [X]) was [lost/stolen/damaged] on [date]. Please advise on claim requirements and next steps. I have [receipts/photos/police report] available."
Thanks for reading!
Jared & Brie
