It’s not as difficult as you think to figure out how to measure your ring size. But it does require some forethought! Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring for your partner or a sparkler for yourself, knowing your perfect size will take the guesswork out of the process.
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That being said, if you CAN try on a specific ring before purchasing it, that is always the best bet. However, if you are unable to visit a jewelry store to purchase a ring or have your fingers measured by a professional, these ring sizing tips will produce accurate results at home that you can rely on.
What You’ll Need at Home to Measure Your Ring Size
There are three methods for measuring ring size at home. We’ll go over the steps for each of them below.
The String Method
I recently measured my ring finger at home using this method, and it was much easier than I expected. While I had a vague recollection of my ring size (I believe it was a 7 or 8), I wasn’t certain, despite having been told by a jeweler several times. (Add this to the list of facts I frequently forget.) But, thankfully, I was able to determine my ring size using four items I already had at home.
- A piece of paper, string, or floss. (I used a piece of scrap paper.)
- Scissors
- A tape measure or ruler
- Pen or pencil
Here’s what you do:
Step 1: Make a thin (and long) strip of paper or floss.
Step 2: Wrap the paper around your ring finger just below the knuckle. You measure this high up because you want to make sure your ring can easily fit over this part.
Step 3: Once it’s snug, use your pen to mark where the two ends meet on the inside of your finger. (See photo above.) If you’re using string, you should cut it at this point instead. Just be careful not to wrap it too tightly. You’ll want to find a comfortable fit rather than a tighter fit.
Step 4: Flatten the thin strip of paper or string and measure how many millimeters (or inches) there are between the mark you just made and the end of the paper or string you used.
Step 5: Compare that measurement to the standard ring sizes listed below. Most ring sizes are in millimeters (mm) and range from 5 to 13.
The Ring Sizer Technique
You can use a printable ring sizer like this one from Macy’s if you don’t want to use measuring tape or a ring size guide. These are useful because they measure for you. Remember to cut a small slot for the paper’s pointed end to pass through.
Make use of a ring size chart.
This method is particularly useful if you want to learn your partner’s ring size in private. All you’ll need is a ring they currently wear on the finger you’re purchasing one for. All you have to do is place the ring over the ring circle. Simply ensure that the chart is printed at 100% for accuracy.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- The average ring size for a woman is 6-7.
- The average ring size for men is 9.5-10.
- If you’re using floss or paper, make sure to measure your finger at the end of the day when it’s a little swollen.
- If your knuckle is significantly larger than the base of your finger, measure both and choose a size in between.
- The most important consideration is that you purchase a ring with at least a two-week return policy (30 days is preferable) in case it does not fit.
I’d like to make a proposal. How can I find out what size their ring is without them knowing?
The best way to find out a ring size in secret is to measure one of their current rings. You can use one of the ring charts listed above, or you can trace it on paper and bring it to a jeweler. Alternatively, you can create a mold by pressing the ring into a bar of soap (just make sure to clean it before reusing it! This will be more difficult if your partner does not wear a ring. After all, it’s difficult to wrap a string around their finger without them knowing! In this case, we recommend estimating whether they have average size fingers (7) or small/larger, and proceeding from there. Because 80% of engagement rings are resized, it’s unavoidable. Simply do your best, and err on the side of caution by going.50 size larger than you think. Sizing down is easier than sizing up.
Is it true that all ring sizes are the same?
It all depends on where you live! Ring sizes are determined differently in the United States and Canada than in France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Japan.
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