Measuring ring size without a ring - here's how
Would you like to buy a ring but don't know your size? Or you want to propose to your partner and don't know what size engagement ring to order? No problem! We'll show you simple tips and methods to help you measure your ring size correctly. All you need is a thin strip of paper or a printer to print out our ring sizer.
The most important facts at a glance
Determine ring size with paper strips
Alternatively, you can also use a piece of ribbon or string.
Learn more
Determine the correct ring size at the jeweler
Visiting a jeweler is probably the safest method.
Learn more
General information
A ring that constantly slips is not only annoying, but also carries a higher risk of loss. Just as annoying is a ring that fits too tightly and, in the worst case, causes the finger to tarnish. We would therefore like to show you what you should look out for when measuring and buying in order to end up with the perfect ring on your finger.
The right finger: As the fingers of our dominant hand are usually a little thicker than those of the other hand, you should always measure the finger on which the ring will later sit.
The right time: Our fingers are thinner in the morning than in the evening. Therefore, it is better to measure during the day.
Temperature: As cold makes our fingers shrink, it's best to measure your ring size when you've been in a warm place for a while. Also bear in mind that our fingers are thicker in summer than in winter.
Knuckles: For many people, the knuckles are wider than the base of the fingers. It is therefore best to measure your knuckles and order one size larger if necessary.
The shape of the ring: Cunky rings such as our Cuban Chain Ring should be ordered one size larger, while delicate rings with a central stone, such as engagement rings, can be one size smaller to prevent them from constantly slipping.
Measure regularly: The more often you measure, the more reliable the result. So feel free to try out all the methods shown. As our fingers also change with age, regular measurement is also a good idea.
How do I know that I have chosen the right size?
A ring fits perfectly when it is tight enough not to slip off your finger, but loose enough to be removed with relative ease. Try the shake test: if the ring doesn't fall off after shaking your hand frantically, it fits.
Determine ring size with paper strips
The first method for determining your ring size is particularly simple. All you need is a sheet of paper or a thin strip of paper, a pencil and a ruler. Alternatively, you can also use ribbon.
- First, place the paper or ribbon around the desired finger from behind and cross the ends over the top of the finger. Make sure that the ribbon is neither too tight nor too loose on the finger and can still be slipped over the knuckle.
- Use the pen (preferably a marker) to mark the point where the two meet (see picture).
- Now remove the tape and measure the distance between the marked points using a ruler or tape measure.
- Now all you have to do is look up the number in mm in the international ring size chart. For example, a finger circumference of 54.4 mm would be a ring size 54.
Click here for the ring size chart.
In case of an engagement: If you want to determine the ring size secretly, this method works just as well. Simply wrap the (paper) band around your partner's finger while she sleeps.
Fancy a new ring?
Measure ring size with Ring Sizer
With the next method, you can read your ring size directly from the ring sizer without having to look at the ring size chart. And this is how it works:
Step 1: Download and print out the guide
Download our guide here. Make sure that the scaling in your print dialog box is set to "100%".
Step 2: Check the guide
To make sure that the sizer is the right size, you can measure one of the circles on page 1 with a ruler.
Step 3: Cut out the ring sizer
Now cut out the ring sizer and add a slit at "Cut here". You can use the pointed corner of the scissors or a cutter for this.
Step 4: Create a ring gauge and read the size
Now place the sizer around the desired finger with the writing facing outwards, pull the loop through the slit and read off the ring size. Done!
Did you know?
If you are between two sizes, this is not a problem. Many jewelry brands also offer intermediate sizes such as 53 or 55.
Determine the correct ring size at the jeweler
Determining the right ring size is real precision work. For this reason, it is best to carry out both methods in succession to achieve the most reliable result possible. However, when it comes to finding the perfect engagement ring, many people want to play it safe. A jeweler can then help you measure the ring size.
When it comes to finding out your own ring size, the jeweler will choose one (or both) of the following options:
- Determine ring size with rings: Here you will try on rings in different sizes until one fits perfectly. The jeweler will advise you on the perfect fit.
- Measure ring size with ring measure: Here, the ring size is simply measured directly on your finger using a ring measure.
When it comes to secretly finding out your partner's ring size, there are also two options:
- Determine ring size with string: Tie a thin string around your partner's finger while they sleep and knot it. During a subsequent visit to the jeweler, they can then pull the eyelet over the ring bar and read off the ring size.
- Measuring ring size with a ring: Bring a well-fitting ring from your partner (which they wear on the corresponding finger) to the jeweler. They can then use the ring ruler to find out the ring size. You can find out more about measuring ring size with a ring here.
What to do if the engagement ring doesn't fit?
Of course, it can happen that the ring does not fit in the end, despite the utmost care taken during measurement. However, this is not a problem, as jewelers usually offer subsequent ring resizing free of charge.
Discover engagement rings with sustainable Lab diamonds from Pukka Berlin
Conclusion
Measuring ring size is all about millimeters. So it's best to take your time and take it easy. Especially when it comes to secretly determining the ring size, skill and a bit of luck are required. However, if you follow our hints and tips, we are sure that you will surprise your partner with the perfect engagement ring in the end.
