How do I take out my belly button ring?

Lexie

About 2 years ago I got my belly button pierced and I've never taken it out. I decided last night that I wanted to try to take it out and look at how the hole/scaring looks. I kept twisting the top ball but nothing happened. I could not get it off. Any tips? Am I doing it wrong? My sister suggested getting wire cutters and cutting it off if I can't get it off but this is the only ring I have for it and I don't want the hole to close up or ruin my ring.