Why More People Are Choosing Hinged Rings

Rings are meant to be worn. To be seen, felt, and enjoyed every day. But for many people, that’s not always possible.

As we age, our hands change. Whether it’s from arthritis, injury, or simply natural physiology, fingers don’t always stay the same shape. And when the knuckle becomes larger than the base of the finger, a once-perfect ring can suddenly feel tight, spin around, or just not go on at all.

At Paddington Jeweller, we meet many clients who’ve stopped wearing their rings—not because they’ve fallen out of love with them, but because they no longer fit comfortably.

The Knuckle Dilemma

This issue is more common than most people realise. For over 30% of our clients, the knuckle is larger than the base of the finger, making it tricky to find a comfortable fit. If a ring is large enough to pass over the knuckle, it often ends up too loose at the base and rotates or falls off. But sizing it down isn’t an option either—because then you can’t get it on at all.

This challenge can come from:

• Arthritis or joint inflammation

• Past hand injuries or surgery

• Natural hand shape

• Swelling that fluctuates throughout the day

For many, the result is the same: a ring they love sitting unworn in a drawer.

What Is a Hinged Ring?

A hinged ring — sometimes called an open-shank ring — offers a simple, secure solution. Rather than sliding over the knuckle, the band opens from the side or base, allowing the wearer to gently open and close the ring around their finger.

Once fastened, the ring sits exactly where it should: snug at the base, without spinning or squeezing. The hinge mechanism is engineered to be strong, secure, and discreet — locking into place so you can wear it with confidence.

This type of ring isn’t just more comfortable — it’s more practical for everyday life.

A Real Story: Pam’s Ring

Pam had a ring she loved but hadn’t been able to wear in years. The knuckle on her finger had grown larger over time, and while she could get the ring on with effort, it never stayed in place. It felt like a hula hoop on her finger.

We worked with Pam to redesign her ring with an open shank — a hinge that allows it to open and close around the finger. The visual design remained the same, but the way it felt completely changed.

“It now fits snugly without needing to slide over the knuckle,” she told us.
“I can wear it all day without it spinning or slipping off. It’s made such a difference.”

Designed in Paddington, Sydney

At Paddington Jeweller, we design hinged rings that combine comfort, security, and timeless style. Each hinge is thoughtfully engineered to remain durable and virtually invisible once closed.

While we don’t modify existing rings with hinges, we do design new ones from scratch — either recreating an existing design, or crafting something completely bespoke.

A Ring That Fits Your Life

Jewellery should be worn and loved — not hidden away because it no longer fits.

Whether you’re looking to redesign a sentimental piece, or create a new ring that’s easy to wear every day, hinged rings offer a smart, secure, and stylish solution.

If you’ve been holding onto a ring that doesn’t fit anymore — there’s a way to wear it again, without compromise.

Still Holding Onto a Ring That Doesn’t Fit?

You don’t have to leave it in the drawer. A hinged ring gives you the freedom to wear what matters — without discomfort or compromise.

📍 We have hinged ring samples available in store, so you can see exactly how the mechanism works and try one on for yourself.

💬 Book your consultation online to discuss your options, or simply visit us in Paddington — we’re always happy to help.