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A Guide to Finding the Perfect Ring Size

Rings are often considered symbols of a new chapter in one’s life. Engagement and wedding rings signify commitment and love between two people, eternity rings signify eternal love, while college rings indicate success and hard work. 

Regardless of what kind of ring you’re looking for, getting one that is the perfect size is crucial. An ill-fitting ring can not only ruin the moment but also put you in a constant state of worry about losing it.

Amanda coleman's dragonfly ring on a model's hand to showcase the ring

Join us as we explore the various factors to consider when determining the perfect ring size. So, the next time you shop at  Amanda Coleman’s, you can be confident of the size of the ring you purchase.

The Science of Ring Sizing

Yes, there’s a science behind identifying the correct fit for any ring because various elements can directly influence your ring size and measurement. It’s important that you know about these factors so you can be more precise with ring sizing.

#1. Lifestyle and Changes in the Body

We all know that your ring size — that is, the size of your finger — changes with temperature changes, changes in your diet, or if you get pregnant. Your fingers essentially respond to various biological changes and your environment.

For example, your finger size will be bigger if you are in the eighth month of your pregnancy than when you were just four weeks pregnant. You can also expect your fingers to be more bloated if you live in hot and humid places.

#2. Finger Shape

Different types of fingers can impact your ring measurement, so it’s a good idea to know beforehand what kind of fingers you have.

Here are some guidelines on the different kinds of fingers and an overview of their characteristics.

  • Knotted fingers: The knuckle located in the middle of the finger is broad, so your choice of ring should be able to get past the knuckle. This means that the ring could be rather loose when it reaches the base of your finger. So, consider getting sizing beads along with the ring to ensure the fit is snug and the ring is secure.
  • Tapered fingers: For this finger type, your fingers widen in size as it moves downwards, so the base of your fingers is the widest part. The challenge here is that rings can easily slide up with minimal to zero effort once they get past your knuckles.

#3. The Ring’s Width

Unfortunately, ring sizes can fluctuate depending on the type and style of ring. So, don’t be surprised if a size J ring with a thick band is a bit tight compared to your size J thin rings. The bands also play a role in the overall sizing because wider bands tend to give a snugger fit compared to thin rings. 

 

Amanda Coleman's twig ring in solid 18ct yellow, white and rose gold, against a white backdrop

 

The width of the band not only changes the overall aesthetics of the ring but also impacts how secure it will be around the base of your finger. If you prefer delicate and thin bands, opt for a size smaller than your usual ring size, especially if you plan to have a stone in the middle.

#4. The Sizing Convention

Based on where you will be purchasing the ring, consider the naming conventions and the actual sizes. For example, in Canada and the US, the ring sizes are from sizes 3 to 13, with half and quarter sizes almost always available. On the other hand, Australia and the UK follow an alphabetical sizing convention from A to Z.

Regardless of whether you’re purchasing a ring from the US or the UK, the measurement unit followed is either in inches or in millimetres. The measurement is also for the actual circumference or diameter of the ring. So, take that into account when doing your sizing conversions.

Best Conditions For Measuring Your Ring Size

While various factors can affect your ring size, there are ways to overcome this. A simple way is to avoid doing things that will lead to bloating or weight gain. 

Before measuring your ring size, do the following:

  • Don’t eat anything salty.
  • Avoid hot drinks.
  • Don’t indulge in any strenuous activities.

The best time to measure your ring size is midday in a room temperature area to achieve the most precise and comfortable fit possible.

DIY Ring Measurement Techniques

You can measure your finger at home with simple methods and tools. You can also use online resources for the size guide, given that there’s a wide availability online for the circumference and diameter of the ring size that you can refer to. 

World famous multisizer, explaining how to use a ring sizer

Take a look at the different DIY ways to measure your ring size:  

#1. Invest in a Ring Sizer

The easiest and no-sweat way to measure your finger at home is topurchase a plastic ring sizer. A ring sizer is a belt with different rings in all sizes possible, including quarter and half sizes. You can find it for a low price onour website, making it easy for you to measure your ring size accurately.

image of a white ring sizer on someone's hand

#2. Download Printable Ring Sizers

There are plenty of ring sizers on the internet where you can print, cut the ring sizer and then wrap it around your finger’s base. Make sure that you wrap thepaper ring sizer around your finger for a snug fit, and you’ll find the ring size indicated at the bottom of that ring sizer.

#3. Print Ring Sizer Images

Another option similar to the printable ring sizer indicated above is to print a ring scale. This is a printable image of different ring sizes, and all you need to do is to get one of your rings that fits you perfectly and place it on top of one of the ring images. Under each printed ring, the size and the corresponding diameter are indicated.

#4. Download a ring-size calculator app

If you have a mobile device, plenty of ring-size calculator applications are available on the app store. Type in ‘Ring-size calculators’ and browse through the options to download the one that is best for you. These apps allow you to accurately measure your finger size without leaving your couch!

#5. Use a String

Use thread, string, or dental floss to measure your ring size. Wrap it securely on the base of your finger and mark the point that they overlap to know where to cut it.

Set this thread against a ruler and find the length in millimetres, and then, with the help of an online ring size chart, you can check the appropriate size based on the circumference.

Or, if you need a more precise measurement, you can always head to a jewellery store and request a professional to measure your finger to know your ring size.

Final Thoughts

Getting the right ring size can be a little tricky, but it’s an important technique to know when you want to find a ring that is just right for your fingers. We hope this guide helps you learn about ring sizes and encourages you to discover the different ways to measure your ring size to find your perfect fit!

Amanda Coleman's stag and fern ring with an emerald stone