How snug is too snug for a ring?

Three signs separate a snug ring from one that is genuinely too tight. Visible skin bulge above and below the band is the clearest: the metal is compressing the tissue rather than resting against it. Inability to rotate the ring on the finger at all is the second, since a band that cannot rotate also cannot let air or moisture move underneath, which leads to skin irritation. Discolouration of the finger tip after sustained wear, particularly bluish or pale skin, means circulation is being restricted. None of these are urgent in the short term, but all three signal the ring needs sizing up before swelling makes removal harder.

For a half-size adjustment, most jewellers can add internal sizing beads or a sizing bar to the inside of the band. These hold the ring snug across the knuckle and create slightly more room at the base of the finger, where swelling causes the most discomfort. For a full size or more, a proper resize is needed: the band is cut at the back, a small section of matching metal is added and the join is soldered and polished. Plain bands resize up by one to two sizes easily, less in pave or eternity bands. If the ring will not come off at all, soap, ice or a jeweller is required before the finger becomes painful.