If your ring keeps spinning on your finger—or slips around more than you'd like—there’s a discreet solution that doesn’t require a full resizing:
speed bumps, also known as sizing beads.
At Martin Busch Jewelers, we often recommend these small but mighty additions to help you get the perfect fit—especially if your ring fits your knuckle but feels loose once it’s on.
Let’s break down exactly what they are, why you might need them, and how they can make your favorite ring feel just right.
What Are Speed Bumps / Sizing Beads?
Speed bumps (aka sizing beads) are two small, rounded metal beads added to the inside of your ring’s band near the bottom.
They’re usually made from the same metal as your ring—gold, platinum, or silver—and are soldered directly inside the shank.
They:
-
Help your ring stay upright (especially important for engagement rings)
-
Prevent spinning or twisting on the finger
-
Offer a semi-permanent fix without fully resizing
They’re called “speed bumps” because they act like gentle road bumps—keeping your ring securely in place once it slides past the knuckle.
Who Needs Sizing Beads?
Sizing beads are ideal for people who:
-
Have larger knuckles but smaller fingers—so the ring has to be big enough to slide over the knuckle but ends up loose at the base
-
Wear top-heavy rings (like large solitaire or halo engagement rings) that tend to spin
-
Experience fluctuating finger sizes, but don’t want a permanent size change
Benefits of Sizing Beads
-
Keeps your ring centered so stones don’t twist or turn
-
Prevents slipping without making the ring feel tight
-
Less expensive than resizing
-
Reversible – they can be removed or adjusted later
-
Customizable – different bead sizes for different needs
Will Sizing Beads Feel Uncomfortable?
At first, you might notice them—but most people quickly get used to the feel. The beads are smooth and rounded, designed to sit comfortably against your skin.
If you're particularly sensitive or not used to snug jewelry, our jewelers can customize the size and placement of the beads to suit your comfort.
What’s the Process Like?
Adding sizing beads is a quick and affordable service at Martin Busch Jewelers.
What we do:
-
Assess your ring fit and finger size
-
Determine bead placement and size based on your needs
-
Solder two small beads into the ring's inner shank
-
Polish and clean your ring so it looks like new!
Turnaround time is usually a few days, depending on your ring’s design.
Should I Choose Beads or Resizing?
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Sizing Beads | Resizing |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Knuckle issues, spinning | Overall fit too small/large |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Reversible | Yes | No (requires new adjustment) |
| Comfort | Slight adjustment | Seamless fit |
Still not sure? We’re happy to help you decide during a free in-store or virtual ring fitting.
Keep Your Ring Where It Belongs
If your ring spins, slips, or just doesn’t feel secure on your hand, sizing beads may be the perfect low-impact solution.
At Martin Busch Jewelers, our master jewelers can add them discreetly and professionally—so your ring stays exactly where it’s meant to be.
Book a ring fitting or sizing service → Schedule An Appointment
Stop by our Manhattan showroom or contact us for a virtual consultation
Small upgrades can make a big difference. Let your ring feel as good as it looks—with a perfect fit from Martin Busch Jewelers.