How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

A ring that fits well feels like part of you. Measuring at home is straightforward if you do it carefully.

Method 1: measure an existing ring

This is the most accurate home method.

1. Pick a ring that fits the finger you will wear the new ring on, comfortably.
2. Lay it on a flat surface.
3. With a ruler, measure the inside diameter, the distance across the opening, from one inner edge to the opposite inner edge, in millimetres.
4. Measure twice and use the average.
5. Give this measurement to the jeweller, or convert it using a chart. See ring size chart in India: how sizes work.

Method 2: string or paper

1. Cut a strip of paper about 10 cm long and 5 mm wide, or take a piece of string.
2. Wrap it around the base of the finger, where the ring will sit.
3. Mark the point where the end overlaps the start.
4. Lay the strip flat and measure the length in millimetres. This is the circumference of your finger.
5. Use that figure with a chart. A European size is simply the circumference in millimetres, rounded.

Tips for accuracy

• Measure at a neutral time. Fingers swell in heat, after exercise and at the end of the day. Measure at room temperature, and take more than one reading on different days.
• Make sure the string is snug, not tight.
• Check that it passes the knuckle. The ring has to get over the knuckle and then sit comfortably. If your knuckle is large, the ring size may need to be closer to the knuckle measurement.
• Measure the correct finger and hand. Sizes differ between fingers and hands.
• Consider the band width. A wide band needs a slightly bigger size.

Common mistakes

1. Measuring a ring on a different finger.
2. Using a stretchy material such as a rubber band.
3. Measuring the outside of the ring instead of the inside.
4. Measuring when your hands are cold.
5. Rounding down when you are between sizes.

What if you are between sizes

Go for the larger size, particularly with a wide band. A jeweller can often add a small insert or resize. See resizing and repairing rings.

For surprise rings

If you need to find someone else's size without asking, see how to find her ring size without asking.

Confirm with a jeweller

A home measurement is a good start. For an expensive ring, ask a jeweller to confirm with metal sizers. Many shops do this free.

Common questions

How accurate is a printed ring sizer? It depends on your printer. Check that the scale matches a ruler.

Should the ring be tight or loose? It should slide over the knuckle with a little resistance and sit snugly at the base without pinching.

Does ring size change over time? Yes, with age, weight and pregnancy. Check your size occasionally.

A second check on another day

Measure on two different days and at two different times, and compare the results. If they differ by less than half a size, take the larger. If they differ by more, measure again at room temperature. It is a small effort that avoids the most common reason for an exchange. When you place the order, mention the measurements as well as the size, so the jeweller can double-check against their own sizer.

Get measured

Use our size guide, or book an appointment to be measured. When you are ready, browse our diamond rings.