Reducing this ring one size

[Ruedeleglise]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230228/5f5ccaa922ce3d0d20979223534611b0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230228/99f3d100a57ce01ce51e947b665f6be4.jpg


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[Ruedeleglise]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230228/5f5ccaa922ce3d0d20979223534611b0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230228/99f3d100a57ce01ce51e947b665f6be4.jpg


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I think I am getting in a “pickle” here with how to present my request for advice! The photos are of a ring I have been asked to reduce one size. As you can see (I hope!) the ring is not of a regular cross section and it has a gold wire detail which appears very well attached to the silver.
Dare I cut out a section of the shank and resolver as I would with a plain ring? I am scared to damage this ring as it is a very valued piece belonging to a friend. Would the potato trick of pushing the gold side into the wet potato flesh work? Any other ideas please?
David


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[Dennis]

Not fond of any trick involving covering part of the ring, because it also means using a much hotter flame to get the solder to flow. Instead I have used hallmarking extra easy silver solder and and cut through as far from the decoration as possible.
One mm of shank removed will reduce the ring by one English size, or close. Dennis.

[Ruedeleglise]

Thanks Dennis for your advice. I have extra easy solder. I am so scared of disfiguring the ring!


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[Dennis]

I am so scared of disfiguring the ring!

Warn the client of the hazards, and if it's too stressful refuse the job.
If you decide to solder it, tie it across with binding wire, or use a clamp, so it cant open. Do it on a flat brick with the joint slightly overhanging the edge. Dennis.

[Ruedeleglise]

Great advice…I will sleep on it!


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[Ruedeleglise]

Gave it back unaltered!
David


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[Dennis]

No shame in that. Always chance of shrivelling up the wires. Dennis.

[art925]

If I am correct the actual shank looks hollow on the photos, which will make the re-soldering tricky.

[Ruedeleglise]

In fact it wasn’t , but it had great sentimental value to the owner and I wasn’t going to take a risk and ruin a good reputation and possibly loose a friend!
David


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