Rings are more than just jewellery—they’re tiny bundles of love, memories, and, sometimes, a bit of drama.
Whether it’s your engagement ring, an heirloom from Grandma, or a shiny impulse buy, rings often need a little TLC as life progresses. Maybe it doesn’t fit anymore, or you’re itching for a glow-up with extra sparkle.
Whatever the reason, modifying a ring is a brilliant way to keep it looking fabulous and feeling personal. But how much does it cost to do that in Australia? Let’s break it down without the fluff.
Why Do People Change Up Their Rings?
Life happens. One day, your ring fits perfectly; the next, it’s too snug after one too many scoops of gelato. Or maybe that simple band no longer matches your style. People change their rings for all kinds of reasons, like:
- Resizing: Because no one likes circulation problems.
- Upgrading stones or metals: A diamond’s forever, but sometimes you want a bigger one.
- Restoration: Heirlooms deserve a second chance to shine.
- Customisation: Personal touches, like adding birthstones or engraving.
Whatever the reason, it’s about making your ring work for you.
Popular Ring Modifications and What They Cost in Australia
If you’re wondering how much a little sparkle or adjustment might set you back, here’s a no-nonsense guide to the most common ring modifications and their price tags.
Resizing: Because Comfort Is Key
Resizing is one of the most popular modifications. A jeweller adds or removes metal to make it fit perfectly, whether sliding off or cutting off circulation.
What it costs:
- Simple resizing for plain bands: $50–$150.
- Intricate designs: $150–$300.
Resizing isn’t a one-size-fits-all job (pun intended). Rings with unique patterns or stones set all around the band need extra care, which ups the cost.
Stone Replacement or Upgrades: Bigger Is (Sometimes) Better
Got your eyes on a shinier diamond or a vibrant sapphire? Upgrading or replacing stones can completely transform your ring. Whether swapping cubic zirconia for diamonds or switching to a lab-created gem, it’s all possible.
What it costs:
- Small stones: $100–$300 each.
- Centre diamond upgrade: $500–$5,000+, depending on size and cut.
Pro tip: Lab-created stones are budget-friendly and look just as stunning. Win-win!
Adding Accent Stones: Turn Up the Sparkle
Want your ring to pop? Adding accent stones can take it from “nice” to “WOW!” Whether it’s diamonds, rubies, or emeralds, extra gems on the band or halo are guaranteed to glow up.
What it costs:
- $300–$1,000, depending on the size and number of stones.
Think of it like accessorising your accessory—small touches that significantly impact it.
Band Modifications: The Ring’s Backbone
The band may not get all the attention, but it’s the foundation of your ring. Whether you switch metals (like gold to platinum) or add texture, band modifications can completely change the vibe.
What it costs:
- Band replacement: $500–$2,000+.
- Engraving or textured designs: $50–$200.
Replacing a worn-out band while keeping the stones intact for heirloom rings is a popular choice.
Prong Re-Tipping or Replacement: Stone Security Matters
Prongs are the unsung heroes of your ring—they hold those precious stones in place. If they’re worn or bent, it’s time for a fix.
What it costs:
- Re-tipping prongs: $30–$100 per prong.
- Full-prong replacement: $200–$500.
Trust us, it’s cheaper than replacing a lost diamond.
Polishing and Rhodium Plating: A Quick Refresh
Is your white gold ring looking a bit dull? Polishing removes scratches, while rhodium plating restores that shiny, mirror-like finish.
What it costs:
- Polishing: $50–$100.
- Rhodium plating: $80–$200.
It’s like giving your ring a spa day.
Custom Redesigns: Make It Yours
A complete custom ring redesign is a fantastic option if you’ve got a vintage ring or one that no longer suits your style.
What it costs:
- Simple redesigns: $1,000–$3,000.
- Bespoke creations: $3,000–$10,000+.
Redesigning is perfect for turning something old into something one-of-a-kind.
What Affects the Cost of Modifying a Ring?
Here’s the thing: not all ring modifications cost the same. Prices depend on:
- Metal type: Platinum is pricier to work with than gold or silver.
- Gemstone quality: High-carat diamonds or rare gems increase the cost.
- Design complexity: The more intricate the details, the more time and labour required.
- Location: Jewellers in Sydney or Melbourne may charge more than those in regional areas.
Pro tip: Always ask for a quote before committing to any modification.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
When considering changes to a ring, it’s natural to have questions about what’s possible, how long it takes, and what to expect. Below, we address some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions:
Can all rings be resized?
No. Rings made from specific materials, like tungsten, are too rigid to resize. Eternity bands with stones all around are tricky, too.
How long does a modification take?
Most jobs take 1–3 weeks. For custom redesigns, it can stretch up to 6 weeks.
Is modifying a ring cheaper than buying a new one?
Usually, yes! Plus, it keeps the sentimental value intact. Why trade in memories for something off the shelf?
Give Your Ring the Love It Deserves
Your ring is more than just a piece of jewellery; it’s part of your story. Modifying it to suit your style, size, or needs ensures it stays relevant and cherished for years. From a simple resize to a dazzling redesign, these changes keep your ring as unique as the moments it represents.
by Australian Diamond Brokers : December 25th 2024 Come visit our store or browse our website to find out more.