How to Measure and Determine Ring Size Accurately | Ring Size Charts and Tips

Understanding Ring Sizes

Finding the perfect ring that fits just right can seem daunting, but having an understanding of ring sizes can take the guesswork out of shopping for rings. Whether you're buying an engagement ring, wedding band, or another type of ring as a gift, knowing the recipient's accurate ring size is key.

Standard Ring Size Scale

Most rings conform to the standard jewelry ring size scale which measures the circumference of the finger in millimeters. Ring sizes typically start at size 3 and go up through size 15 with half and quarter sizes in between.

A size 7 ring has an interior circumference of 52 mm. Each full ring size up or down represents a 2 mm increase or decrease in the diameter of the circle the ring makes when laid flat. Here is an overview of common standard ring sizes:

• Size 3: 16 mm diameter; 49 mm circumference
• Size 4: 17 mm diameter; 51 mm circumference
• Size 5: 18 mm diameter; 53 mm circumference
• Size 6: 19 mm diameter; 55 mm circumference
• Size 7: 20 mm diameter; 57 mm circumference
• Size 8: 21 mm diameter; 59 mm circumference
• Size 9: 22 mm diameter; 61 mm circumference

Determining Ring Size

Figuring out ring size can be as easy as using a ring sizer tool. These handy devices allow you to get an accurate read by sliding rings across the various size gauges until you find the best fit.

Most jewelers have ring sizers available to determine your size right on the spot. You can also use the paper measuring strip variety or order plastic ring sizers to use at home.

Measuring with String

If you don't have access to a ring sizer, use a piece of soft string or paper to measure your finger circumference. Simply wrap the string snugly around your finger, cut it to fit, and measure against a ruler to determine the length.

Next, use the ring size conversion chart below to find your approximate ring size. Keep in mind that string and paper measurements are not always totally precise, so it’s best to double check by having your finger professionally sized by a jeweler.

Finding Ring Size Secretly

Trying to determine someone's ring size without them knowing? If you want the proposal or ring gift to be a total surprise, use these covert ideas to secretly figure out ring size.

Borrow a Ring

Your best bet is to discreetly borrow one of their rings - one that they wear on the ring finger you'll be putting the new ring on. Slip it off their jewelry dish when they remove it, trace the inside with a pencil on paper, or use a ring sizer tool.

If you don't have access to any of their current jewelry, borrow a ring from one of their close friends or family members who might know the size.

Pay Attention

Start studying their hands and paying attention to which fingers they wear their jewelry on. Do they usually wear rings on their left ring finger? What size do their other rings appear to be? This can give you a starting point for determining the size.

Make an Excuse to Trace Their Finger

Casually trace your partner's ring finger under the guise of holding hands affectionately. Use a pencil to lightly trace directly on your own finger where theirs would end to mark the circumference. You can measure against a ring sizer later.

For another sneaky tactic, wrap a small piece of floss or string around their finger with the excuse that you're curious and want to compare hand sizes. Secure with tape and measure the length against a ruler using the conversion chart later.

Adjusting Ring Size

What if you order a ring and realize the size needs to be adjusted to fit properly? Not to worry - resizing a ring is quite simple.

The process involves cutting the band to add or reduce width, then seamlessly rejoining it around to the proper finger size. Simple metal bands with single uniform thickness all around can easily be resized by about two sizes up or down.

More intricate rings with multiple widths or gemstone settings make sizing more complex, but can still often be resized by an experience jeweler. Work with your jeweler to determine options for ensuring a good fit.

Size Too Small

If your new ring is slightly small, there are a couple temporary options.

First, have the jeweler gently stretch the ring's band via a process called enlarging. They use specialized tools to evenly distribute pressure and pull to widen and round out the band.

You can also use ring adjustment guards that function like extension bars. These plastic guards temporarily expand the diameter of the band so the undersized ring can fit.

Size Too Large

A ring that slides right off your finger is annoying at best and easy to lose at worst. Especially for an engagement ring or wedding band you want to proudly display daily, an accurately fitted size is important.

Permanently resize any oversized ring smaller for the right fit. Simple step for your jeweler, this ensures comfort and security no matter how active your lifestyle.

You can also use plastic ring size reducers that provide a temporary fix, squeezing the band tighter so a loose ring stays put on your finger.

Finding Your Perfect Fit

Armed with information on how to measure ring size, determine someone's secret ring size, and properly adjust loose or tight bands, finding ring perfection is easy. Use these tips and tricks to effortlessly shop for beautiful rings with confidence about fit.

FAQs

What is the average ring size for women?

The most common ring size for women is size 6 or 7. However ring sizes span anywhere from size 3 to size 9 for most women. Factors like knuckle size, finger height, and hand shape impact finding the ideal size.

What size men's ring finger is average?

For men, the most widely purchased sizes range from 9-10.5. Larger hands tend to need bigger sized rings. Men's sizes typically start around size 6 for very small hands and end around size 19 for extremely large hands.

Can ring size change over time?

Yes, ring size can fluctuate slightly over time due to natural changes in weight and swelling. Pregnancy, medications, injury, and aging can all contribute temporary or minimal long term ring size differences requiring minor resizing adjustments.

Should my engagement and wedding rings match size?

Ideally, you want your engagement ring and wedding band to align in size so they fit flush together. But subtle size differences can work if needed. Just ensure any gap isn't so wide it risks damaging or scratching the adjacent ring.

How much does it cost to resize a ring?

Simple ring resizing costs around $40-80 on average. The final price depends on metal used, intricacy of design, whether sizing up or down, and amount needing adjustment. More complex rings may require $100-150+ to resize properly.