Unsure of your or even your partner’s ring size? No worries, you’re not alone!
Getting ready for the next step in your life [engagement] can be scary. Finding out her ring size doesn't have to be so tricky.
Many individuals who make their way into the local jeweler (when purchasing or considering rings), ask to be properly sized by a professional. Luckily, while seeking out help from an outside source is an option, there are many ways to discover you or your partner’s very own ring size from the comfort of your home.
To help you find your ring size, our diamond experts have created this complete ring size guide with a ring size chart, printable ring sizer, and even tips for measuring at home.
How Ring Sizing Works
Before you start measuring and writing down numbers, it’s best to understand how ring sizing works. Thankfully ring sizes are secured to a particular set of measurements from jeweler to jeweler throughout the United States (measurement in other countries may differ).
This is important because when you’re ring shopping between vendors and styles, the size of your ring is set and stable (now if we could only get clothing companies to adhere to these guidelines!).
The measurements are collected in millimeters based upon the inner circumference of the ring (not the outer circumference). These millimeters are then transferred over to a ring size chart, which is broken down into whole and half sizes.
How Are Rings Resized?
To make sure you get the greatest possible fit, the ring resizing process involves adding or eliminating small amounts of metal-dependent on the difference between the size purchased and the new size you are hoping for. As a result, your ring may be somewhat thicker or thinner after resizing.
Where Do You Measure?
When measuring for your ring size, you’ll want to stay at the base of your finger (right above the knuckle). It’s also important that you keep the measurement below the first joint, as well (this can be tricky when measuring with a thicker piece of paper).
How To Measure Ring Size
Now that we know about the logistics behind ring measurements and the location of where we should measure, what are the best ways to measure your ring size?
1. Measure With Yarn to Find Ring Size
Believe it or not, the combination of tools and equipment like a piece of string and a ruler (which measures in millimeters), can be used to find out exactly what ring size you are. First, start by wrapping a piece of string around your finger and mark where the ends fit together. Remember, a ring should be snug (especially if an engagement ring), so don’t give yourself too much slack when measuring.
After marking your ring, line it up with a ruler and note down the length in millimeters of the string. Take that number and convert it to ring size based upon a ring size conversion chart.
2. Utilize a Ring Sizing Guide
If you’re not looking to make a trip to the craft store, and can’t seem to locate a ruler, no worries! Individuals can now print their very own ring sizing tools found online. While both easy to use and reliable, it’s important that you make sure the printed page is exported to the exact specifications listed on the guide (i.e. PDF format at 100%). Download & print the ring sizing tool.
How To Find Out Your Partner’s Ring Size
Picking out a promise ring or engagement ring for your partner has multiple steps and considerations. Not only do you have to jot down the style or cut desired, but know the ring size! While seemingly a daunting task there are many ways to figure out your partner’s ring size right at home.
1. Borrow Another Ring
If your partner happens to have a collection of their rings, use these as a guide. Try these four methods below with an existing ring to figure out what size ring they wear.
*Caveat, make sure the ring you use to measure is worn on the ring (or associated) finger.
- Trace the ring: Placing the ring down on a sheet of paper, begin to trace the inside circumference of the ring. As opposed to converting to size, it’s possible to bring this sheet of paper to the jeweler with you.
- Measure the ring’s diameter: Using a ruler, measure the diameter of the inside circumference of the ring and bring this result into the jeweler with you. *It’s important to note that this particular measurement will not translate to the standard ring sizing mentioned previously.
- Mark your finger: Use your finger as a tool. Slide your partner’s ring onto your finger and mark where the ring stops. *We want to note that this method should be paired with one of the other examples on our list.
- Take the ring to the jewelry store: While not an ‘at-home’ option, the ability to take your partner’s ring into the shop is a great way to guarantee you’re matching and sizing the ring correctly.
2. While They’re Sleeping
Is your partner a heavy sleeper? If so, use this as an opportunity to measure the circumference of their finger. We don’t normally suggest disturbing someone during their beauty rest, but if it’s for gifting a beautiful ring, we’ll make an exception. By using a piece of string (as mentioned previously), mark where the ends meet and convert that to millimeters.
3. Ask Friends and Family
There’s power in numbers, and finding out your partner’s ring size can be done with the help of their family or friends. These individuals may know off the top of their heads what your partner’s ring size is. However, if they don’t, there are maneuvers you all can do to find out. Some examples include: suggesting to go jewelry shopping or bringing it up in casual conversation.
4. Be Cheeky
This avenue can be both fun and exciting when trying to discover your partner’s ring size. Whether you decide to come up with a silly statistic (I heard your shoe size is the same as one’s ring size - is this true), or playing/create a trivia game with this question, the ability to get creative here is key!
5. Take An Educated Guess
Many couples may go this route, as they can’t seem to get ahold of or master any of the other ring sizing suggestions. Our only piece of advice when taking an educated guess on your partner’s ring size is to round up. A ring can be brought in a lot easier than expanding out.
When you don’t know your partner’s ring size, selecting one of the standard ring sizes is your best choice. The average ring size for women is 6 to 6.5, and the average ring size for men is 9 to 10.
EXPERT NOTE: If the ring setting has stones surrounding the band, it may be impossible (or very expensive) to resize.
6. Go Ring Shopping Together
While not an ‘at home’ method, the idea to go ring shopping is a great way to secure your partner’s ring size. More couples are having mutual discussions on wedding proposals. While traditionally, the surprise was the intention behind an engagement, the status quo is changing. As there’s a long list of benefits that come from a mutual proposal, and one that’s worth pointing out - is a mutual decision on the ring.
This makes establishing a ring size very simple. This is a fun & romantic event – and even a little telling. Take this as an opportunity to learn which shapes & styles she likes, and those she’s not too fond of. You might even ask her to pick out a few favorites for you to choose from. Keeping an element of surprise later, without the uncertainty of whether or not she’ll love it.
When deciding it’s time to purchase an engagement ring, book an appointment with a jeweler and start the session off by getting your ring finger sized. Going to the source is an excellent way to secure your setting and/or band fits perfectly.
You Have The Ring Size, Now What?
Whether you have the piece of marked paper, the marked string, the measurement in millimeters, or even the exact ring size, what do you do now? As it would seem, it’s time to purchase the ring. However, there may be a few more factors to put into play before getting out your wallet.
Helpful Hints
- How wide is the band? If the band runs a little thicker (whether with metal or assorted stones), try sizing up .25 to .5 higher. As these bands tend to run a little more snug on the finger.
- Are your hands cold? If your measurement was done when your hands (or your partner’s hands) were on the colder side. You might want to go back and resize at a time where the finger was stabilized at room temperature, as colder hands tend to compress in size.
- What season is it? Our fingers can expand in the hotter months, if you performed your ring sizing in the months of late spring and summer, talk with your jeweler about the best ways to size down to fit the cooler months and winter season (as it’s important to have a snug fit on your band).
While ring sizing is, in fact, a science (one made up of numerical and shapes), it doesn’t have to be complicated. By utilizing accessible tools and understanding ring sizing knowledge, you’ll be sure to pick out the perfect ring for yourself (or your partner).
What If I Order The Wrong Ring Size?
Don't let it stress you out! If you purchased a lifetime jewelry protection plan at Rogers & Hollands or Ashcroft & Oak, you are eligible for unlimited ring sizing for life! Alternatively, if you need a different ring, we offer a 60-day exchange policy for your convenience – it’s our happiness guarantee!
