How do I work out ring sizing?

When it comes to buying an engagement ring, one of the most important (and sometimes tricky) steps is making sure you choose the right ring size. After all, you want the ring to fit perfectly when you propose, and for your partner to wear it comfortably for years to come. If you’re unsure about their ring size, don't worry—there are several methods to accurately measure it. Here's a guide on how to measure ring size for an engagement ring, whether you're doing it secretly or with their help.

Why is Ring Size Important?

Getting the right ring size is crucial because a ring that's too small may be uncomfortable to wear, while one that's too large could risk slipping off and getting lost. Even though resizing is possible for most engagement rings, it’s always better to start with the correct size to avoid potential issues later on. A perfect fit ensures that the ring stays in place, but is also comfortable enough for daily wear.

1. Measure an Existing Ring

If your partner already wears rings, measuring the size of one they wear on their ring finger can be a great starting point. Here’s how to do it:

• Choose a Ring They Wear on the Right Finger: Make sure it’s a ring they wear on the same finger where the engagement ring will go—typically the left ring finger for most people.
• Measure the Inner Diameter: Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the inner diameter of the ring in millimetres. Measure from one side of the inner edge to the other, passing through the centre.
• Compare the Measurement: Once you have the diameter, you can compare it to a ring size chart to find the corresponding size. 

Tip: If the ring has a wide band, it may need to be sized slightly larger, as wide rings tend to feel tighter than thinner bands.

2. Use a Ring Sizer

If you don't have an existing ring to measure, using a ring sizer is another effective method. A ring sizer is a set of plastic or metal rings that you can use to try on different sizes to find the one that fits best.

• Order a Ring Sizer Kit: You can find inexpensive ring sizer kits online. These kits often contain a variety of rings that you can slip onto your partner's finger to see which one fits comfortably, or if it's a surprise proposal, measure one of their own rings.

Tip: Measure at different times of the day, as fingers tend to swell in the morning and shrink a little in the evening. The best time to measure is usually at the end of the day when your fingers are likely to be at their largest. The right size should slide easily over the knuckle and fit snugly without being too tight. You should be able to move it with some resistance but not too easily.

3. Use a String or Paper Strip (DIY Method)

If you're looking for a quick, or at-home solution and don’t have a ring or sizer on hand, you can use a piece of string or paper to measure the finger:

• Wrap the String or Paper Around the Finger: Take a piece of string or a strip of paper and wrap it around the base of the finger. Make sure it's snug but not too tight.
• Mark the Point Where It Meets: Once you’ve wrapped it around, mark where the ends overlap.
• Measure the Length: Use a ruler to measure the length of the string or paper, from the starting point to the mark.
• Compare to a Ring Size Chart: Once you have the measurement in millimeters, compare it to a ring size chart to find the correct size. You can find ring size charts online that will help you convert the length to a corresponding ring size.

Tip: Be sure to measure the finger at room temperature, as cold fingers can make the measurement smaller, and hot fingers can make them larger. If you're measuring in secret, try at night time!

Considerations:

When measuring for an engagement ring, it’s important to remember that different band styles can affect how a ring fits. For example, a wide band will feel tighter than a thin band, so you may need to order a half-size larger for comfort if your chosen design has a wide band. Similarly, if you're planning a custom engagement ring with unique settings, the design might require slight adjustments to the size.

If you're planning to propose as a surprise, make sure to take note of the ring size you choose and keep it hidden. You might want to discreetly ask their friends or family members for help in finding the right size or gather information from jewellery they already own.