We try to be as accurate as possible when measuring customers, but your hands can fluctuate in size (seasonal/climate changes, time of day, body temperature, salt intake/water retention, etc.) and not all rings fit exactly the same due to your finger shape. Sizing isn't an exact science. Most, but not all, rings can be adjusted up or down slightly without a problem. This process usually takes two to three weeks. If we're unsure to what degree, if any, it needs to be sized and/or your wedding is too close, we recommend using it for your event and we'll be glad to size it later.
Before Purchase:
SIZING FAQ's
Q: WHAT DO I DO IF I'M BUYING A RING AS A PRESENT AND I DON'T KNOW THE RING SIZE?
A:If you’re buying a ring as a gift, we recommend purchasing the store sample. It can be sized for free within 90 days or exchanged within 30 days. Most samples sizes are 6-6.5 and 10-10.5. If you special order a ring based on a size estimate, it may not be easy to alter if the size is off. In the case of certain styles such as diamond eternity bands, the size can’t be changed at all, so it’s definitely better to purchase a sample and then bring it back to re-order in the right size.
Q: WHAT DO I DO IF MY RING NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED?
A:Rings purchased from The Clay Pot are guaranteed against defect within 90 days. If you have any repair issues, we'll send the ring back to the jeweler who made it for inspection. They'll assess the extent of damage and call us with a repair estimate. Fees will vary.
Q: CAN YOU SIZE MY RING WHILE I WAIT?
A: No, we don’t do any sizings or repairs in-house. We send all rings and jewelry back to the artists that made them, so they are responsible for the workmanship. Sizing takes approximately 2-3 weeks and is covered free of charge within 90 days of purchase or pickup. Beyond 90 days, fees will vary, depending on the amount of labor and materials involved.
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of jewelry, particularly ring sizing and alterations, I can attest that the process isn't as straightforward as one might think. Finger sizes are dynamic, influenced by numerous factors such as environmental conditions, body temperature, and even diet.
Seasonal changes, for instance, affect our body's water retention, impacting finger sizes. I've observed firsthand how a person's ring might fit differently in winter compared to summer due to these fluctuations. Moreover, the time of day matters; fingers tend to swell slightly in the evenings, resulting in a different fit than during the morning.
Not all rings are created equal. Their fit depends not just on the numeric size but also on the design and the shape of one's fingers. Some styles, like diamond eternity bands, are challenging or impossible to resize without compromising the design integrity.
The information shared in your article resonates deeply with my experience. Recommending buying a store sample for gifting purposes is a prudent suggestion. It allows for adjustments within a certain timeframe without hassle, especially considering the complexities involved in resizing certain types of rings.
Regarding repairs, the protocol outlined aligns with industry standards. Assessing damage and estimating repair costs are routine procedures. It's crucial to understand that intricate repairs often require the expertise of the original jeweler to maintain the piece's quality.
The policy of not conducting in-house sizings or repairs is common among many jewelry establishments. Instead, relying on the artisans who crafted the piece ensures a level of craftsmanship and precision that may be challenging to replicate elsewhere.
In summary, the nuances of ring sizing, alterations, and repairs underscore the intricacies within the jewelry industry. It's not merely about numbers but a delicate balance of craftsmanship, materials, and the unique characteristics of each individual's fingers.
