How to Find Her Ring Size Without Asking

A proposal ring that does not fit is an easy problem to fix, but a ring that fits on the day feels wonderful. If you want to keep it a surprise, here are ways to find the size without asking.

Method 1: borrow a ring she wears

Choose a ring she wears on the same finger as the engagement ring will go. Borrow it for a short while, or take it to a jeweller and ask them to measure it. Be careful to use a ring from the right finger, because fingers differ in size.

Method 2: trace the inside of a ring

If you cannot take the ring away:

1. Place the ring on a sheet of paper.
2. Trace the inside edge with a fine pencil, or press the ring into a bar of soap to leave a mark.
3. Measure the width of the circle in millimetres, and take this to a jeweller.

Take care to trace the inside edge, not the outside.

Method 3: measure the inside diameter

Measure across the inside of a ring, from one inner edge to the other, in millimetres. A jeweller can convert the diameter to a size. Note which country's sizing system you are using, because sizes differ. See ring size chart in India: how sizes work.

Method 4: ask someone close to her

A sister, a close friend or a parent may know her size, perhaps from a time she bought a ring or tried one on. Ask discreetly and explain why.

Method 5: take a quick photo

Some people photograph a ring she wears beside a ruler. It is a rough guide only. Use it with other methods.

Method 6: try a ring on her finger in a casual moment

At a market or a shop, a casual try-on of a ring can give a good idea of her size. This works if you can make it feel natural.

Things that affect fit

• Which hand and finger: the dominant hand is often a little larger.
• Knuckle size: a ring has to pass over the knuckle. If her knuckle is large, the ring may need to be a little bigger than the base of the finger.
• Temperature and time of day: fingers swell in heat and after exercise, and shrink in cold. Measure at a neutral time.
• Band width: a wide band fits more snugly than a thin one of the same size, so a wide band may need a half size more.

Plan for a resize

Most rings can be resized by a size or two. Not all can. Some designs, such as eternity bands set with stones all the way round, are hard to resize. Ask in advance, and choose a design that allows it. See resizing and repairing rings: what is possible.

If you are unsure, aim slightly larger

A ring that is a little loose can be fixed with a small insert or resizing. A ring that is too tight is harder to put on and can be uncomfortable. If you are between two sizes, many people choose the larger.

Ask about the exchange policy

A good jeweller will exchange or resize for fit. Check the terms before you buy, as in questions to ask your jeweller before buying diamonds.

Use our size guide

You can also read our size guide, and book an appointment if you would like a jeweller to help you plan a discreet measurement.