How to Measure Ring Size: Women’s Ring Size Guide

Online ring shopping has never been easier, but not knowing your ring size could mean you order a beautiful ring that’s too loose or uncomfortably snug. You don’t want a ring that slips off or gets stuck--the proper fit will protect your ring and prevent resizing. Knowing your ring size is essential when ordering from us because we want to make sure your ring is ready to wear as soon as you receive it. If you’re planning to pop the question and want to keep an engagement ring a surprise, you’ll want to be sure to know her ring size. We’ve created a ring size guide and chart so you can find your ring size, or hers, without leaving home. 

How to measure ring size

Since there’s no one-size-fits-all way to find your ring size, you can choose which method works best for you based on time and convenience. 

1. Use a ring sizer

To find your ring size on your own, you can use a ring sizer. You can purchase a ring sizer on a keychain, a plastic mandrel, or an adjustable ring size gauge. If you choose an adjustable gauge, use the chart below to determine which size corresponds with your measurement. 

2. Measure with string or strip of paper

You may need to make a quick or last-minute purchase and have no time to see a jeweler or find a ring sizer. In this case, a string, piece of floss, or strip of paper will suffice. A strip of paper may be the simplest to mark and measure. Measure the circumference or diameter in mm and compare it to the ring size chart. 

• Start by cutting out a strip of paper that is approximately 3/4-inch wide and 4 inches long. 
• Wrap the paper around the base of the intended finger, and then mark where the paper overlaps. (You can also use a piece of string.) The length of the paper (or string) you measured in millimeters is the circumference of your finger.
• After finding this measurement, use the conversion chart to find the corresponding ring size.

3. Measure your favorite ring 

If you already have a ring that fits well, measure it! Use a ruler and the size chart to find your exact size. 

• Take your ruler and measure straight across the inside of the ring from edge to edge.
• Take the diameter measurement in millimeters.
• Use the measurement-conversion chart to find your ring size.

4. Find a jeweler

Getting sized by a jeweler is your safest option. Jewelers use professional measuring tools and years of experience to help you determine which size ring you’ll need for the particular style you want. To measure your finger, a jeweler will use a large ring with small metal rings in each size attached to it and try them on your finger until they find the best fit. If you’d like to find the size of a ring you already own, a jeweler will slide it on a metal rod called a mandrel that increases in size in measured increments toward the base. 

Ring size chart

Once you’ve found your ring measurements, compare the circumference or diameter in mm with the ring size chart below. Diameter is the inner measurement across the ring, and circumference is the measurement around the inner ring. If you’re shopping from an international site, use the chart to find the size conversion. The U.S. and Canada use the same ring sizes. The UK, Europe, and Australia use different sizing, and so do Italy, Spain, and Switzerland.  

Average ring size for women

Size 6 is the most common ring size for women, but the average size ranges from 5 to 7. Ring sizes are the same for men and women, ranging from 3 to 13. Guessing ring size by height and weight is risky. Measuring is a much better option. A woman with above-average weight may have slender fingers, or a petite woman may have wider knuckles. Weight gain will generally add width to a finger, but if a woman’s finger is smaller than average, then she may still have a small ring size if her weight increases. 

How to get her ring size without her knowing

The easiest and most accurate means of finding your girlfriend’s ring size is to ask her or to go together to get her ring finger measured, but both options can ruin a surprise proposal. Here are a few suggestions for keeping your engagement ring a secret. 

Ask hersubtly. 

Staying subtle is key. If you’re not so great at keeping things natural under pressure or have a horrible poker face, this may not be the best option for you. But if you can weave ring size into a conversation so she doesn’t even blink twice, then you have a quick and easy way to find your answer. Try complementing her hands or fingers while holding them, and then try to guess her ring size. Chances are she’ll be eager to drop a “hint.”

Ask family or friends. 

Reach out to the people who know her best and may have even purchased a ring for her before. If none of her family or friends know her ring size, they may be able to find out and report back to you so you don’t have to risk asking her yourself. But make sure you trust whoever you ask to keep your secret!

Borrow a ring. 

If you can snatch one of her rings without her noticing, you can take it to a jeweler and then return it. Or if you have just a few minutes to sneak into her jewelry box, make sure you’re equipped with your string and measuring tape. 

Make an impression. 

If there’s no way you could borrow a ring without her noticing, try to take an imprint of one or trace it onto a piece of paper. Just be careful not to damage the ring in the process. 

Other factors to consider when sizing a ring 

• The left hand: If you’re shopping for an engagement ring, remember that it goes on the left hand, and the left hand is usually the smaller of the two. Don’t accidentally measure the right hand. One size ring may fit the right hand perfectly but spin around on the left hand.  

• Temperature:Warm fingers swell. So if you’re cold, warm your hands before measuring. If you’re overheated, try to cool down first. Or take your measurement at different temperatures to make sure it fits well no matter the weather. 
• Moisture: Moisture on your fingers will make the ring slide on easier. Don’t apply lotion right before measuring, make sure you dry your hands well if freshly washed, and wipe off sweaty hands. 
• Band width: Wider or thicker bands are tighter, so you may need to go up a quarter or half-size from the size you measured. 
• Shape of your finger: If you have larger knuckles, make sure the band can slide on and off without getting stuck. You may also need to ask a jeweler to add a ring sizing bead or spring to keep the ring from spinning around the base of your finger. Whatever the shape of your finger, make sure your ring fits securely and can be removed effortlessly.

Ring resizing 

Most ring sizes can be adjusted, but it depends on the material and design of the band. To resize a ring, a jeweler will create a small incision and add or remove metal to the band. Sometimes the metal is stretched when a larger size is required. If an expert jeweler resizes your ring, you should not be able to tell by looking at it. 

Yellow gold and sterling silver rings are the easiest to resize. Bands made out of metals like titanium or platinum are too hard. Rings with custom engraving or gemstones around the band cannot be resized without compromising the construction. If you are planning to purchase a ring with an intricate band, it’s especially important that you size it properly. 

Our rings are one-of-a-kind creations and are offered only in specific sizes online. If you love a ring, but don’t see your size, contact us and we’ll guide you to a beautiful ring that fits like a charm. If it doesn’t, many of our rings can be resized, and we’ll work with you until you get the perfect fit. Call or email us atinfo@qevon.com if you have questions about any of our rings. 

You might also like:

• 10 Unique Engagement Rings for the Non-Traditional Bride
• Necklace Lengths: How to Find the Right Size and Style
• 13 Types of Earrings and Earring Backs