A Perfect Fit: How to Measure Your Ring Size

Deven Davis

A Perfect Fit: How to Measure Your Ring Size

New to ring shopping and wearing jewelry? This guide shares everything you need to know about measuring your ring size to get the perfect fit.

Keyword(s): ring size

Looking to get a ring for yourself or a partner?

Before choosing bands and other ring elements, you need to know your ring size. This is often the first problem that people encounter when choosing a ring for someone else. Knowing your partner's ring size is essential if you're planning the perfect proposal.

Even if you're only buying a ring for yourself, knowing your ring size crucial. You don't want to lose your ring down the drain or have it cut off circulation. If you're not sure how to measure ring size, don't worry!

We got you with this guide on how to measure your ring size. Read on to discover some tips on measuring ring size.

Things to Consider When Measuring Ring Size

There are many environmental factors that can affect your ring size. Your diet and current temperature in your environment can affect your results. Other personal factors, like lifestyles and pregnancy, may also come into play.

Here are some of the things you need to consider when measuring your ring size.

Finger Shape

The size and fit of your ring may depend on the shape of your finger. Your ring may fit the tightest around the base if you have a tapered finger shape. If they slide up, they can fall off with ease.

This means that tapered fingers need rings with a snug fit. If you have a knotted finger, your finger may be tighter around the middle knuckle. You may need to get sizing beads so that the ring stays snug around your finger.

These are add-ons that you put at the bottom of your ring. They help to keep your ring in place and are easy to remove.

Band Width

Experts state that rings with thinner bands tend to be too big. Rings with thicker bands can have a more snug fit. More metal will take up more space around your finger.

This is why rings of the same size may not fit the same if they have different thicknesses. If you're looking for a daintier ring band, you may need a smaller ring size.

International Ring Size

Sizes may range between 3 and 13 if you're in the US or Canada. These sizes already come with half and quarter sizes. However, depending on where you are, your country might have a different sizing system.

Numbered sizes may vary as different countries use different scaled. The UK and Australia use an alphabetical letter system when sizing their rings.

How to Measure Your Ring Size

If you're planning to surprise someone with a ring, it can be difficult to guess their ring size. Women's ring sizes range between size 3 and 9. On average, the most purchased ring size is between size 5 and size 7.

Size 6 is the most common ring size for women. If you're looking for a ring size for men, this ranges between size 6 and 13. Size 9 is the most popular ring size for men within the average of size 8 to 10 and 1/2.

Here are some ways to measure your ring size:

Paper, String, and Ruler

Start by gathering string or paper and a ruler. Using either a strip of paper or string, wrap it around the base of your finger. Use a pen to mark where the end meets your string or paper.

Using the millimeter side of the ruler, measure the string or paper. Use a ring size chart to determine the closest measurement of your finger. If you have a knotted finger, measure both your knuckle and the base of your finger.

After finding the measurement of both, determine the size that sits between them. Take note that the fingers on your dominant hand are larger.

Using a Different Ring

If you already have a ring that fits you well, you can use this as a guide. You can use a ruler to determine the diameter of the ring. Place a ring you own that already fits you and hold it against a ruler.

With the ruler, take note of the measurement of the ring's inner diameter. Use a ring sizing guide to find the matching diameter. This is a great way to guess a ring size if you're getting a ring for someone else.

Guessing a Ring Size

It's a modern practice to involve your partner if you're planning to get an engagement ring. However, many couples would still like to maintain a surprise before they propose. One of the best ways to get a partner's ring size is by asking their friends.

Taking a ring that your partner already own may not always be accurate. Not many people wear rings on their left ring finger. This means that the sizing could be off even if you get a sample ring size.

If you're still not sure, it's best to get an oversized ring. It's better to get a ring that can fit your partner's finger during the proposal. You can get this resized later on.

Resizing a Ring

If you ever get the wrong ring size, you may always consult a jeweler for help. A jeweler can resize engagement rings in at least two sizes, either up or down. However, resizing more than this could impact the ring's integrity.

If you size down too low or up too high, you may need to get a custom band. If you don't know someone's exact ring size, avoid getting an eternity band. These wedding ring bands have diamonds all over them.

This means that this type of ring can be harder to resize. A jeweler can only resize this a quarter size down or up.