Get Your Ring Size Right
An incorrectly sized ring is the most common jewelry disappointment. Too loose and it falls off. Too tight and it is uncomfortable or unwearable. Here are three reliable methods to measure your ring size at home, along with tips for getting the most accurate result.
Method 1: The Existing Ring Method (Most Accurate)
- What you need: A ring that fits the intended finger correctly, and a ruler with millimeter markings
- Steps: Place the ring flat on a surface. Measure the inside diameter in millimeters (from inner edge to inner edge, through the center). Compare to a ring size chart
- Common sizes: 15.7mm = size 5, 16.5mm = size 6, 17.3mm = size 7, 18.2mm = size 8, 19.0mm = size 9
- Why it is best: You are measuring a ring that already fits. No estimation needed
Method 2: The String/Paper Method
- What you need: A thin strip of paper (or non-stretchy string), a pen, and a ruler
- Steps: Wrap the paper strip around the base of the intended finger. Mark where the paper overlaps itself. Lay the paper flat and measure the length in millimeters. This is your finger circumference. Divide by 3.14 to get diameter, then compare to a size chart
- Common circumferences: 49.3mm = size 5, 51.8mm = size 6, 54.4mm = size 7, 57.0mm = size 8, 59.5mm = size 9
- Tips: Do not pull tight — the paper should wrap comfortably without squeezing. Measure 2-3 times and average the results
Method 3: Printable Ring Sizer
- Many jewelry retailers offer downloadable, printable ring sizers on their websites
- Print at 100% scale (no scaling or fit-to-page) and follow the instructions
- Verify the printed scale is accurate by measuring a known reference (like a coin) before using
Tips for Accuracy
- Measure at the right time: Fingers swell in heat and shrink in cold. Measure at room temperature, in the middle of the day
- Measure the correct finger: Ring sizes differ between fingers and between hands. Measure the exact finger on the exact hand the ring will be worn on
- Account for knuckles: If your knuckle is significantly larger than the base of your finger, size for the knuckle (the ring needs to pass over it)
- Wide bands need larger sizes: Wide bands (6mm+) fit tighter than thin bands. If buying a wide band, go up half a size
- Comfort fit vs standard: Comfort fit bands have a rounded interior and tend to fit slightly looser than standard flat bands