How to Remove a Stuck Ring

If the finger is turning blue or white, going numb, or is very painful and swollen, do not keep trying. Get medical help straight away, at a minor injuries unit or A&E. A ring cutter can be used there, and the ring can be repaired afterwards. The finger matters far more than the ring.

Stay calm, and do not yank. Pulling hard makes swelling worse.

Raise the hand

Hold your hand above your heart for a few minutes to let the swelling ease.

Cool it

Run the hand under cool water, or hold something cold wrapped in a cloth against the finger, for a few minutes. Not ice directly on the skin.

Lubricate

Washing-up liquid, soap, hand cream or a little oil, worked under the band.

Twist, do not pull

Rotate the ring slowly back and forth while easing it towards the fingertip.

If the ring still will not move, slide a length of dental floss or thin thread under the ring towards the hand. Wrap the long end tightly around the finger, from the ring towards the fingertip, compressing the swelling as you go. Then take the short end and slowly unwind it, pulling towards the fingertip, so the ring rides over the wrapped finger.

Stop immediately if it hurts, or if the finger changes colour.

Sometimes the only answer is to cut the ring. A jeweller or a medical team can do this with a ring cutter, usually through the band at the base of the ring, away from any stones. A gold or platinum ring that has been cut can be rejoined, resized if needed, and finished so the repair is invisible.

Some alternative materials, such as tungsten and ceramic, cannot be cut with an ordinary ring cutter. It is one reason precious metals are the safer choice for a ring worn every day.

If a ring became stuck because your size has changed, have it resized rather than forcing it back on. Every Jabour ring includes a complimentary first resize within 12 months of delivery. Our fit guide explains how a ring should feel.