How to measure ring size

Exactly How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

Wedding and engagement rings have long been exchanged as symbols of love, honor and devotion. The circular ring has neither a start nor finish, which is emblematic of an everlasting union, and the custom of wearing it on the left hand is said to stem from the ancient Egyptians’ belief that the fourth finger’s vein connects directly to the heart. With such rich meaning and symbolism, wedding and engagement rings are designed to last a lifetime—so it makes sense that the ring size needs to be spot on.

If you’re not sure how to measure ring size, you’re in the right place. We’ve created a printable ring size chart to help you measure your ring size from the comfort of home. Of course, we know it’s not always that simple. If you’re planning to propose and want to secretly measure your partner’s finger, fear not: In this all-encompassing engagement ring size chart guide, you’ll find tips to find your partner’s size without them knowing, answers to common questions about how to measure ring size, and a few top tips straight from jewelers.

In this article:

How to Understand Ring Sizes

When it comes to engagement rings and wedding rings, one thing is for sure: size matters. Standard ring sizes are given in millimeters based on the inner circumference of the ring. Just like clothing, rings are sized on a standard scale so that a woman’s size 6 is the same from jeweler to jeweler. With that said, if you’ve ever bought jeans from different brands, you’re well aware that a clothing size 6 doesn’t always fit the same way—and it’s no different for rings.

If you’re curious to know whether ring sizes are universal, the answer ultimately depends on where you are in the world. Ring sizing becomes a little more complicated when you factor in regional variations. The US and Canada follow a numerical scale with half and quarter sizes; however, other countries may follow an alphabetical scale, which only uses whole sizes or includes a set circumference adjustment. There are also some deviations of ring size charts among jewelers regardless of location. «All the jewelers in the world go by two different metrics of sizing,» says David Ryan Pomije, co-founder and CEO of Bijoux Jewels. «The metrics have to do with the starting point of your ring size—either on the side edge of the ring or the center of the inside of the ring. It’s up to the jewelry company to decide what metrics they want to use.»

And to add one more wrench in ring sizing, the style needs to be considered. «Some designs, like those with diamonds all the way around, cannot be sized after they’re designed because it will stretch the metal holding the stones in place, causing them to fall out,» says Emily Duke, creative director and design consultant of DiamondEnvy.com. Such factors are important to take into consideration when using a ring size chart at home—so if you find yourself confused by the process, you can always head to a local jewelry store to ask a gemologist for help.

Printable Ring Size Chart

If you find yourself wondering, «What’s my ring size?» we have good news: You can easily measure it at home. We’ve created a printable ring size chart measured to scale. Simply print out this image to its actual size, and follow the directions below to successfully use this ring sizing chart.

How to Use Our Ring Size Chart

There are three ways you can use the ring size chart above to measure your finger, which we explain here:

With a Ring You Already Have

This ring size method is based on the inside diameter measurement of a ring that fits the fourth finger of your left hand.

With the Paper Strip

Using the paper strip at the bottom of the chart, this ring size method uses a tape measure-style approach with specific ring metrics.

With a Piece of String

This ring size method provides a flat measurement tool to be used with a plain piece of string.

While all of these ring size methods are fast, convenient and free, there may be accuracy discrepancies due to things such as printer settings or stretch of the string. Consider using more than one ring size method for a «measure twice, cut once» approach to ring sizing. We also recommend using tools and tips provided on any jeweler’s website. Some may also offer to send a free ring sizer before you make a purchase, so read the fine print to learn about your options.

How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

On This Page

Since the advent of online shopping, we rarely need to leave the comfort of our own homes to run errands, exercise, or get food.

The same should be true when it comes to measuring our ring sizes before ordering from the best jewelry stores or hinting to a partner about gorgeous engagement rings you’ve had your eye on.

The Proper Fit

According to New York City’s Catbird, a popular fine jewelry store in Brooklyn, «Your ring should fit your finger comfortably—snug enough so that it will not fall off, but loose enough to slide over your knuckle with some resistance.»

Ring Size Guide

U.S. ring sizes follow a scale of numbers (and half numbers), typically from ring size 3 to 13.5 for adults. Women’s rings are commonly between sizes 3 and 9, while men’s rings are usually sized between 8 and 14. Those units match your finger’s width in millimeters: A ring size 3 fits a ring finger (or any finger) that is 14 millimeters across, and the sizes climb from there.

The average ring size for women is between 5 and 7, but it’s always best to get an exact ring measurement before spending a lot of money—an engagement ring isn’t cheap.

Best Practices for Finding Your Size

Before you measure your ring size, there are a few pointers to keep in mind:

Measurement Methods

Below are three common (and easy) ways to measure your ring size at home—using string, a ring size chart, and a ring sizer—so you can get the right piece of jewelry.

Option 1: Use string or floss to measure your finger

Pro Tip: String and floss can stretch, so don’t pull them too taut. If you do, your measured ring finger size may be larger than your finger and any rings you purchase may be too big.

How To Measure Ring Size: Top 11 Tips From Experts

Figuring out your – or your loved one’s – ring size is easier than you think! There’s no reason for you to wonder how to measure ring size with us around. There are plenty of at-home tricks and tools that you can use and we have them all laid out with easy-to-follow instructions and printable tools for foolproof results.

Read on and find the exact size you’re looking for so that ring feels like home once it’s slipped on your finger.

Engagement Rings Shopping Tips

How To Measure Ring Size At Home?

There are a few methods that you can use to figure out how to measure her ring size at home.

All you’re doing here is figuring out the length in any unit of measurement.

Once you know that, there’s a handy international ring chart in the next section that you can use.

How To Measure Ring Size In cm And mm?

Simple use our international ring size chart. Now when you have measured the finger with the methods mentioned above, just choose the closest measurement to find out the corresponding size.

Diamond is an international business and since the majority of countries that deal in diamonds use the metric system, this is what you’ll have to use to find your perfect ring size.

If you’re measuring in mm (millimeters), it will be a snap to use our table. To convert mm to inches, use the simple formula 1 inch = 25.4 mm. If you want to measure in centimeters, then simply divide the value in mm by 10.

How To Measure Correct Ring Size Online

To measure ring size, simply place the ring you currently own over the circles until you find a match. If you are between sizes, order up.

The string method isn’t an exact science, so it’s best to use this engagement ring guide for the proper size to double-check before you’re off to make your purchase.

Also, we have a helpful guide for those of you wondering how to measure ring size for online shopping. Use this online Ring Size Wizard – a simple online tool to know ring size.

Tips On Measure Ring Size With Paper

The next bit of help teaches you how to measure ring size with paper.

You can use the first secret weapon in our toolbox; this printable sizer.

Wrap this around your finger to find your exact size.

How To Measure Ring Size With A Ruler

Using a ruler to measure your ring size isn’t the most practical, but it’s not impossible.

Measuring ring size with a ruler involves choosing a starting point on your finger as point 0.

Next pivot the ruler around your finger, never letter the ruler move away from your skin.

Once you’ve spun the ruler completely around your finger back to point 0, you’ll have your measurement.

Measure Ring Size With String

Using a string is one of the more simple approaches.

Take the string and wrap it around your finger exactly where the ring is going to lay.

Straighten out the string and place it next to a ruler. If you’re using inches, refer to our conversion formula mentioned before.

If you’re using millimeters, go directly to the international sizing chart we’ve provided to find your size.

How To Know Ring Size With Tape Measure?

This measure is fairly similar to the string method but skips the step of having to measure.

Tape measures are a lot thicker than string, so you’ll have to pay close attention to placement when measuring.

The trick in both is not to be too tight or too loose.

The string should be firmly against your skin, but not digging into it. This produces the most comfortable size.

How To Measure Ring Size From A Ring Without Her Knowing?

If you are asking yourself how to measure ring size from a ring, there are 2 surefire ways to get her ring size without her knowing.

In both cases, take note of a ring she loves to wear that appears to fit comfortably.

Measuring Ring Size For Silicone Ring

How to measure ring size for a silicone ring?

You can use the same measurements, methods, and international sizing as a standard ring.

However, compared to a standard metal ring, silicone behaves differently. There’s a little more flexibility, and the material does stretch ever so slightly.

It’s best, especially if you’re in between sizes, to air on the smaller size to take advantage of the flex and stretch nature of silicone.

How To Measure Man’s Ring Size?

The way to measure a man’s ring size is no different from measuring a woman’s finger, and the sizing chart is the same.

The one difference is that men’s rings are usually a little thicker and a little broader. The dimensions of the ring make it feel tighter, so moving a half-size-up is usually needed to maximize comfort.

How To Do Ring Size Without Taking Measurements?

If you are planning a wedding and buying a ring for someone as a surprise and all else fails, hold her hand.

Make a mental note of how large her finger is in your hand, and try to find something around the house that is approximately the same size so that the jeweler has a reference point.

If you’re using this ‘guesstimation’ method, it’s better to go with a larger size.

This is much easier to resize than a ring that is too small.

Whether you’re measuring your finger or choosing an engagement ring for a surprise proposal, the point of taking a measurement is so that the ring feels as natural on the finger as possible.

While you are taking your measurements, it’s best to keep in mind how much fingers can change.

They are thicker when they are warmer – so the time of day and seasons play a role, and the ring also has to get past the knuckle which is often wider than where they sit.

For best results, measure your finger at the end of the day and leave a little room for the knuckle.

October 25, 2021

It can be confusing trying to find the perfect fit, especially when you’re buying rings online.

Whether you’re looking for your first ring or you’re already a stacking connoisseur, we’ve got your back!

Read on for three simple ways to measure your ring size, quick tips, and some info on international ring size conversions.

Summary of Ring Sizes

Our ring sizes all use standard US measurements. Confusingly, different countries (like the UK, France, Germany, Japan and Switzerland) all have their own measurement systems. There are plenty of conversion charts online so you can easily translate between the two.

60.0

If you’re between sizes, we suggest to choose the bigger size!
FYI: the most common ring sizes for women’s ring fingers are 6 and 7.

The Ring Diameter Method:

Measure an existing ring that you own

This one is quick and simple! If you already own a ring that fits the intended finger, simply:

The Finger Circumference Method #1

Use a Ring Sizer

If you have a ring sizing tool like the one in the picture above, you’re in luck! This is a really easy way to figure out your ring size.

Is your finger a whole size? Easy peasy! Select that size.

Is your finger a half size? Most jewelry brands (like us) sell only whole sizes. Adjust the ring sizer to the nearest whole size (i.e. go down a half-size and up a half-size) and choose which one feels more comfortable. If you’re not sure, it’s always safer to choose the bigger size.

The Finger Circumference Method #2

At-home DIY solutions

You will need a piece of thin string, dental floss or strip of paper; a pen; and a measuring tape or ruler.

How to find your ring size with a tape measure or ring sizer

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When I bought my wife her engagement ring 15 years ago, it was the first piece of truly expensive jewelry I had ever bought. Being a college-aged man at the time, I did the logical thing and simply guessed at her ring size. As it happened, I was pretty accurate. (That or she had it resized and thoughtfully didn’t tell me.) But now that I’ve grown a bit wise, I can give you a piece of advice: Don’t guess at ring size.

A ring that’s too large might slip off a finger, especially when its wearer’s hands are cold, wet, or both. A ring that’s too tight is a pain to get on and off and can be uncomfortable at all times when worn, as well, constricting proper blood flow and movement of the poor bejeweled digit.

The good news? It’s easy to find your ring size. Here are three ways to do it that, if done right, are sure to work. Quick pro tip: Measure at the end of the day because your finger will be at its most swollen then. Also, if you have large knuckles, you might need to take those into account and measure at the joint.

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