Your Questions, Answered

About the ARS

  • The ARS is a small lock-and-hinge mechanism installed into the existing shank of your ring. It is not arthritic shank, or replacement shank.

    Two cuts separate the top and bottom of the band. A hinge is installed on one side and reconnected with a center pin. A locking mechanism is set into a small groove on the inside of the other side. When open, the ring easily passes the knuckle. When closed, it sits securely at the base of your finger.

  • Many systems remove the original shank and replace it with a new hinged one. The ARS is installed on the inside of the ring you already own. No part of the ring is taken away or replaced, so engraving, milgrain, side stones, and the original profile stay intact. The mechanism is designed to fit seamlessly into the original ring.

  • Absolutely!

    The lock is built with a steel center pin for strength, and the outer components are made to match your ring’s metal. When the lock is fully closed the ring seats just like any other.

    Like any fine jewelry with a moving part, it should be cleaned regularly to ensure it functions smoothly. If anything ever fails or gets damaged, the LIFETIME GUARANTEE covers repair or replacement.

  • No!

    The lock sits on the inside of the shank, while the hinge is seamlessly integrated into the other side. From the outside the ring looks like the ring you brought in. That is the point of a non-invasive installation: same beauty, no added bulk.

Installation and what can be converted

  • Yes!

    Most installations are done on rings customers already have, including pieces they have not been able to wear because of knuckle size, arthritis, or injury.

    You may also have the ARS installed on brand new rings purchased at any retailer that also offers our product!

  • In short, everything!

    There are no finger size or shank width restrictions. If stones or detail run down past the 3 and 9 o’clock positions, we choose the variation that fits that design. There are three versions of the ARS in total to accommodate any size, shape or style of ring.

  • No!

    The ARS is considered one unique solution to a common problem. The reason the ARSI (Standard), ARSII (Double Hinge) and ARSIII (Extended Length) exist are to ensure that no one ring, or anyone feel left out! Each version has a particular strength. The Standard version is simply the most commonly installed version, as it meet the needs of the majority of our customers. The Double Hinge allows us to tackle rings with stones set past the 3 or 9 o’clock position on the shank. And the Extended Length is there when the customer needs a wider opening than the Standard, or Double Hinge.

  • Installations are handled through jewelers. Your store sends the ring to us, we install the system, and the ring comes back to the store. Retailers who want to offer the ARS can contact us for pricing and process details.

  • Plan on 7-10 days at our facility, plus shipping time to and from your jeweler.

  • The lock and hinge are offered in 14k yellow gold, 14k white gold, 14k rose gold, and platinum, matched to the ring. We use 14k gold for the gold components to balance strength and cost, and every lock uses a steel center pin.

  • Item description

Fit and sizing

  • The version of ARS that is installed on your ring is decided by our specialized team to ensure the system functions perfectly for your unique situation. We factor your finger size (closed size), your knuckle size (open size) and finally your ring itself when deciding which system you need.

  • The ARSI (Standard) and ARSII (Double Hinge) opens 3 sizes above the closed size, which is the ratio we recommend whenever possible.

    The ARSIII (Extended Length) can open 4, 5, or 6 sizes above closed size. A larger opening needs a longer center pin inside the lock, and a longer pin is under more pressure when the ring is being closed. We treat 3 to 4 sizes as the optimum range. Openings of 5 or 6 sizes still work, but they need extra care when closing so the center pin is not stressed. Six sizes is the maximum.

  • If you later need a different closed size, simply return the ring to the original place of purchase with your new closed size. Your jeweler will send us back your ring and we will resize it at no cost! Resizing falls underneath our LIFETIME GUARANTEE.

  • Item description

  • Absolutely!

    We are the only ones that can proudly say eternity bands are no problem! Because we aren’t replacing the existing shank, and the ARS is fitted on the inside of the band, there isn’t anything stopping us from installing the ARS on eternity bands.

Opening, closing, and care

  • Because there are no complicated mechanics at play, no specific tool is required to open or close the ring. While we do recommend using a flat object to pop open the lock, it isn’t actually necessary! It’s easy enough to simply grab the top half of your ring and carefully pull the lock open, following the contour of your ring to ensure you don’t pull in an outward direction which may lead to excess stress on the lock’s center pin.

    For our visual learners we have helpful video instructions that can be found on our Care & Handling page.

  • If the ARS starts to become a bit sticky when opening or closing its usually due to a build up of dirt or grime. This can easily be fixed by a bit of careful cleaning!

    Start with simply opening your ring and gently wiping the lock’s center pin with a microfiber cloth. If the problem persists, or you cannot open it while on your finger, run the ring under some warm water, or use a small amount of dish detergent to loosen buildup.

    If it still feels sticky its best not to force it. Take it to the original place of purchase and have them send it to us for an expert cleaning, or repair if necessary.

  • Routine cleaning can be done by your local jeweler. If you clean it at home, be careful when the lock is open. The center pin is exposed in that position and should not be bent, snagged, or scrubbed aggressively. All ARS components are safe for both ultrasonic and steam cleaning.

Warranty and service

  • There’s no gimmicks here. We really do guarantee the ARS and the installation for the life of the ring. If the system breaks or is damaged, regardless of how it was damaged, we will repair or replace it at no charge, including labor. That includes user error and ordinary wear and tear. This guarantee covers the ARS only, not the stones or the original ring itself.

  • Simply return the ring to with your warranty card to the place your purchased the ARS. The store contacts us and we take it from there. Depending on the specific service requested—resizing, repair, or replacement—you may see even quicker turn around times than our typical 7-10 days for brand new installations.

Practical questions

  • You can, with the same caution you would use for any ring with stones. Soap film and lotion are what usually makes a lock sticky, so rinse it and dry it carefully. Take it off for heavy lifting or work where the band can catch. Whenever you remove the ring make sure to close it before setting it down so you don’t leave the lock’s center pin vulnerable.

  • Assuming regular cleaning and careful operation is maintained, the lifespan of the ARS can easily hold up for multiple years! That being said, everyone’s a bit different. A more active lifestyle may lead to more frequent touch-ups, or possible repairs down the line. Ultimately it comes down to the individual. That is why we encourage regular and careful cleaning, as well as keeping a light touch whenever handling, or opening and closing the ARS to avoid any accidental damage.

  • Currently we only ship in the US. We are expanding rapidly. As long as our customers continue to show us their support and help us keep growing, we would love to offer the ARS all over the globe!