How to measure ring size
This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions we receive: how to measure ring size? And the reason is simple. When we buy a designer ring, the least we can expect is that the purchasing and delivery process be as perfect as the jewel itself. This, of course, involves choosing the ideal ring size. We love surprises and we know how difficult it is to buy a ring for a loved one without asking their size (that would be too obvious and we don’t want that). Let’s review in detail how to measure your ring size at home and save the day!
How can I tell what size my ring is?
Ring size is different for each person and varies greatly between men and women, generally ranging from size 3 to 13. A standard size for women varies from 5 to 7 (6 is the most sold size). For men, the average sizes range between 8 and 10, with 9 being the most sold men’s ring size.
These sizes have an equivalent in millimeters (mm). Size 3 corresponds to a band length of 14.1 mm. Every 0.4 millimeters equals an increase of 0.5 in size. So, if instead of being size 3, you are size 3.5, the measurement should be approximately 14.5 mm.
For 14.9 mm, your size would be 4. For 16.5 mm, the ring would be size 6. If the measurement is 16.9 mm, the size is 6.5 and so on (up to 22.6 mm). This way, you can know your ring size without any problem.
How do I measure my ring size at home?
There are three simple methods to find your ring size at home without problems. Although it is important to note that these measurements will not be perfect if done only once. Why? Simply because the size or thickness of our fingers varies greatly depending on the temperature and time of day.
So, unless you have another ring to compare the size, it is better to measure a couple of times before declaring a definitive ring size.
Good news! We have prepared an updated Ring Size Guide (2024) that you can download and that has everything you need to discover your size at home using another ring or easily measuring your finger.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT RING SIZES
Using a string
The easiest and most used method to find your ideal ring size is to use a small string, strip of paper, or dental floss and use it to measure the circumference of your finger. To do this, you only need these materials:
- String, dental floss, or strip of paper
- Marker or pen
- Ruler
- Tape (optional)
Once you have them, you can follow these steps:
- Select the material of your choice, in this case, you can choose a small string, strip of paper, or dental floss to measure.
- Wrap the base of your finger with the material you chose.
- Make a mark exactly where the two ends of the material meet (where they overlap).
- Stretch out the material you chose with the marks already made.
- Place the stretched-out material next to a ruler and measure the length in millimeters from the initial mark to the end.
- The measurement in millimeters will be the circumference of your finger.
If you want to make a more accurate measurement, you can make a fake ring (optional) as follows:
- Use a strip of paper and some tape to make a fake ring.
- Adjust the fake ring on the finger until it feels comfortable, neither tight nor loose.
- Cut the strip and measure the length in millimeters as indicated in step 5.
By following these steps, you will be able to determine the circumference of your finger accurately and find your correct size.
Using an existing jewelry
You can use a ring you already have in your wardrobe and check its diameter with our ring size chart. Just follow these steps:
- Find a ring you already have at home that fits well. This ring will serve as a reference to determine your size.
- Download our ring size guide in PDF format from our website.
- Print the chart, ensuring that the print scale is correct to obtain an accurate measurement.
- Once printed, place the ring directly over the circles representing different sizes.
- Slide the ring until you find the circle where it fits perfectly without leaving extra space.
- Note the number corresponding to the circle where the ring fits perfectly. This number is your ring size.
This method is ideal if you want to know your partner’s ring size discreetly to surprise them with a gift. Use a ring you know fits them well and follow the steps above.
Remember that our PDF ring sizer comes with detailed instructions so you can make the measurement easily and accurately, and best of all, it’s completely free for you to do it yourself.
Ring Sizer
There are ring sizers that come specially designed with a graduated tape that you can adjust around your finger, which will tell you exactly what the ideal ring size measurements are for you.
Our PDF has an incorporated ring sizer that you can cut out and use on your finger. To use it, follow these steps:
- Download the ring sizer PDF from Atroas’s website. Make sure the print scale is correct to obtain an accurate measurement.
- Print the ring size calculator (PDF) on a letter-size sheet (A4). Use a printer that guarantees an accurate print scale to avoid measurement errors.
- Carefully cut out the ring sizer following the indicated lines. Precision in this step is crucial to obtain an exact measurement.
- Adjust the graduated tape around the base of your finger (or your partner’s finger) to take the measurement. Ensure the tape is tight but not constricting.
- The graduation on the tape will indicate your ideal ring size. Read the number where the tape closes around your finger.
This method is easy and accurate, ideal for knowing your size or your partner’s. You can measure at home quickly and easily.
In a jewelry workshop, professionals can use precision tools to determine not only the ideal standard size for the ring but also the band thickness, design type, and even recommend materials that match what you are looking for.
This is not a “home” method, but it is an interesting way to know the ring size when surprising someone you love without directly asking their size.
How to know what is my ring size in inches
At the beginning, we mentioned how ring sizes have an equivalent in millimeters according to the internal band length. To know this measurement in inches (which some brands use as a reference), a simple conversion is necessary.
One inch (1 in) equals 25.4 millimeters (mm), so to make the conversion, we divide. If your ring size is 7 (17.3 mm), you would divide 17.3 / 25.5, and you will get the measurement in inches (0.6784 in).
Another way to get an approximate in inches is by multiplying the ring sizes in mm by 0.0393701.
Variability of sizes according to different countries
It is important to note that each country and even different designer brands can have their own standard for measuring the size of a garment or accessory, hence the importance of having a ring sizing chart. For example:
In the United Kingdom (UK): an alphabetical system is used that goes from A to Z with half sizes (e.g., K 1/2). This system measures the internal circumference of the ring in millimeters.
In Europe (EU): the internal circumference of the ring in millimeters is used as a reference. Sizes usually range from 40 to 76 mm, and this is the reference used to define the ring size. This means the references are not standardized, which can make them less precise.
In the Japanese system: similar to the European system, it is based on the internal circumference of the ring in millimeters but uses a different numerical scale. Japanese sizes usually range from 1 to 27.
In the Swiss standard: also similar to the European one but with different numbering. Swiss sizes are based on the internal circumference in millimeters minus 40. For example, a Swiss size 20 would correspond to an internal circumference of 60 mm.
If you have a piece of jewelry that does not comply with the local (US) standard, you will find an international ring size chart in our PDF where you can convert your size from your country to the United States or any other country’s standard.
In any case, here below we share a very complete ring size chart for you to have at hand and take a look at .
International Ring sizes chart:
The anatomy of the finger and the ring size
An important factor to consider when defining the ideal size for a ring is the anatomy of the finger of that special person you want to surprise, as sometimes the fingers do not fully conform to the standard, being a bit thicker at the base or the knuckle.
This is a detail that we can easily notice if we are attentive, but it is crucial to take into account to prevent accidents.
If you think the knuckles or the base of the finger might be problematic at first glance, it would be good to request a ring size 0.5 larger to ensure it fits comfortably.
Impact of ring design on size
The design of the ring can also significantly influence the final ring size, but don’t worry, it’s very easy to understand at least in general terms. Here are some key points to focus on when deciding:
Band Thickness
Thicker bands (more than 5 or 6 mm) tend to feel tighter on the finger because they cover a larger area of skin, exerting more pressure and compressing the sensitive part of the finger.
This isn’t necessarily good or bad; it’s simply a design feature to consider.
For these rings, it’s not unusual for some customers to prefer a size 0.5 larger for comfort during long-term wear. This detail won’t be an issue with more delicate bands (less than 3 mm thick) as they tend to feel much lighter and less tight.
Band Shape
Some bands can have unique and very original shapes. For example, wavy bands or bands with a concave cut towards the center of the ring. This design detail can lead a buyer to opt for a slightly different size in certain cases since the fit (even if it objectively has the same overall size) tends to feel lighter.
This is just a general idea. If when choosing your ring you notice that the design has an unusual shape in the band, that is, it is not completely smooth and traditional, you might want to get advice about its fit before purchasing to avoid surprises.
Settings and Decorations
Keep in mind that some jewelry may include settings or inlays of precious stones that somehow protrude from the band and may come into direct contact with the inner part of the finger.
In this particular case, it is usually recommended to increase the ring size slightly to avoid an uncomfortable fit over time.
Note: This doesn’t happen in all cases, only in those where the details and precious stones are embedded in the middle of the band and not on it. You can probably notice this detail at first glance.
If in doubt, simply observe the inner part of the ring and verify that only the metal comes into contact with the skin and not the precious stones.
Materials
The materials can significantly influence your choice of ring size. Fine and high-quality materials like gold tend to be more malleable, so adjusting them requires little work, and therefore, making a mistake in the ring size is easy to correct.
On the other hand, precious metals like rhodium and the famous titanium—one of the most resistant and highly demanded metals in high-quality jewelry—can be more challenging to adjust.
If you have many doubts regarding the ideal ring size and want to surprise someone, it’s best to play it safe with gold and then, if you wish, switch to one of these alternative metals.
Although changing the band size is a possibility it is important that we keep two things in mind:
- Rings cannot always be resized due to their design. This means that if the band is ornate, with special inlays, with alternative metals (such as rhodium), or has a specific number of gemstones, it may not be possible to resize the band.
- If a size change is made to the band, it involves adding or removing some of the metal. This of course has an impact on the price and weight of the ring.
This does not have to be a stress factor for you when purchasing your dream ring. If you have the advice of Atroas the ring resizing is free charge, as long as it is a model that allows it.
Now that you have all these tricks at hand you can leave before your partner the ideal clues, such as a magazine or a gallery of beautiful rings of your size opened by mistake (oops!). If the surprise is on your side, you already know the target of your next undercover mission.
How to Clean And Care For Your Jewelry
Fine jewelry will bring years of wearing pleasure with proper care and cleaning and occasional inspection by a professional jeweler. There are also some special precautions to take with more delicate gems like pearls. Good common sense is your best guide, but here are some helpful tips to keep all your fine jewelry in tip-top shape. All Jewelry
Avoid wearing jewelry while in contact with household chemicals, such as chlorine bleach. They can discolor or damage your jewelry mountings.
Take off your jewelry before doing rough manual work or playing sports. Gemstones could be jarred loose or chipped by a hard blow.
When you’re not wearing your jewelry, be careful that pieces do not tumble against each other to avoid scratching or dulling. Ideally, store each piece in its own soft cloth pouch.
At least once a year, have a jeweler professionally clean and inspect your fine jewelry. Most jewelers offer cleaning and inspection as a complimentary service to give you a lifetime of wearing pleasure. At Shane Co., twice-a-year cleaning and inspection also help ensure the workmanship of your purchase lasts a lifetime.
Diamonds
Clean your diamond jewelry regularly at home in an ultrasonic cleaner or by hand. To make your own jewelry cleaning solution, mix one-part ammonia to six parts water.
Gently scrub the diamond piece with a small soft toothbrush to loosen dirt and restore the diamond’s brilliance. Be careful not to scratch the metal setting. Always rinse after cleaning.
Rubies and Sapphires
To clean rubies and sapphire jewelry at home, use a lukewarm solution of water and mild dishwashing soap, or one-part ammonia to six parts water. Keep your gems brilliant by gently brushing them with a small bristle brush, especially underneath where dirt collects. Rinse and dry.
Pearls
Pearls can keep their luster for a very long time when cared for. Proper pearl care is not difficult, as long as you remember that these gems are organic by nature, grown in water from living cells of a living creature.
The best way to help your pearls maintain their luster is to wear them regularly. Your body’s natural oils aid in maintaining the pearls’ beauty.
Pearls should be worn alone. If worn with other jewelry, such as a gold chain or other necklace, they may be scratched or damaged.
Apply any cosmetics, lotions, perfume, or hair spray before putting on your pearls. Make your pearls the last item you put on when getting dressed and the first item you take off.
Avoid contact with salt water, chlorinated water, or perspiration.
Wipe your pearls after wearing them, using a soft cloth.
Remove spills immediately when pearls come in contact with any foods or liquids. Wipe them with a soft damp cloth and then with a dry soft cloth.
Store your pearls separately from other jewelry, preferably in a cloth bag. Storing them in a slightly damp linen cloth will help the pearls from drying out in low humidity atmospheres and centrally heated areas.
Never clean your pearls with soap, detergents, or jewelry cleaner. A harsh cleanser can wear away the nacre.
Never use an ultrasonic jewelry cleaning machine or steam cleaner.
Have your pearls restrung every two to five years if worn regularly, or when the silk becomes dirty. Take your pearls to a professional jeweler for cleaning prior to restringing, which will add to the beauty and long life of your pearls.
Gold Jewelry
Proper care of your gold jewelry will assure a long-lasting glow. Gold is tarnish-resistant, but it can get dirty or smudged.
Every so often, clean your gold jewelry with a mild detergent or ammonia solution (one-part ammonia to six parts water). Avoid ammonia solution when cleaning pieces that contain pearls.
Do not use any kind of abrasive that might scratch the gold.
Use a soft brush to gently clean intricate filigree designs and under gemstones.
Rinse and wipe jewelry after cleaning
Platinum Jewelry
Like gold, platinum jewelry does not tarnish.
Simply clean your platinum pieces with a soft cloth and mild detergent or ammonia solution (one-part ammonia to six parts water) to maintain their luster.
Silver Jewelry
Because sterling silver by nature may tarnish, we provide you with a professional cleaning and polishing cloth with your purchase of sterling silver jewelry.
The treated inner cloth will restore luster without scratching or removing the finish. This cloth can also be used on your gold and platinum jewelry.
Use the inner polishing cloth to remove tarnish or dirt, and finish with a few rubs of the outer cloth to provide a high shine.
Alternatively, create your own cleaning solution. Line a bowl with aluminum foil and pour hot, salted water in. Drop your silver jewelry in and move it around with a wooden or plastic utensil to ensure all of the surfaces come in contact with the aluminum foil.
When you notice that the metal has become bright again (it should only take a few minutes), remove the jewelry and rinse under the tap. Wipe gently with a towel and polish with a soft cloth.
Note that this method should only be used if your jewelry does not contain gemstones as the saltwater could damage the settings.
