How to Pick a Ring Size Without Visiting a Store?

One of the most common questions we get before someone places a made to order ring is the same one: "How do I know my ring size?" It is a totally fair question, especially if the nearest jewelry store is not exactly around the corner, or you are ordering a ring as a surprise gift and cannot exactly ask the person to try one on. The good news is you do not need a professional sizing tool to get an accurate measurement at home. Here are a few reliable ways to do it yourself.

Method 1: Measure a ring you already own

If you have a ring that already fits the finger you are shopping for, this is usually the fastest and most accurate method.

1. Find a ring that fits the intended finger comfortably, not too loose and not too tight
2. Lay the ring flat on a ruler or measuring tape and measure the inside diameter in millimeters, from one inner edge straight across to the other
3. Match that number to a ring size chart, using the diameter column

A word of caution here: only measure a ring that already fits the finger you are buying for. A ring that fits the right hand will not necessarily fit the same finger on the left hand, since most people have a slightly different size between hands.

Method 2: The string or paper strip method

If you do not have a ring to measure, this low-tech method works surprisingly well.

1. Cut a thin strip of paper or a piece of string long enough to wrap around the base of your finger
2. Wrap it snugly around the finger, at the point where a ring would normally sit
3. Mark the spot where the ends meet, or where the string overlaps
4. Lay the strip flat and measure the length in millimeters from the starting point to your mark
5. Match that measurement to the circumference column on a ring size chart

This method measures circumference rather than diameter, so make sure you are comparing your number to the right column when you check it against a sizing chart.

Method 3: A printable ring sizer

Several jewelers offer free printable ring sizers, which are essentially a paper ring you cut out and adjust to fit your finger, with a size printed directly on it. If you search for a "printable ring sizer PDF," you will find several free options. Just make sure to print it at 100% scale, with no "fit to page" scaling turned on, or the measurement will be thrown off.

Ring size chart: diameter and circumference

Here is a general reference chart. Small differences between brands and countries do exist, so use this as a helpful guide rather than an exact universal standard.

Tips to get a more accurate measurement

A few small habits make a real difference in how accurate your at-home measurement ends up being.

• Measure at the end of the day. Fingers are naturally a little smaller in the morning and slightly larger by evening, so an afternoon or evening measurement tends to be more representative.
• Avoid measuring when you are cold. Cold fingers shrink slightly, which can throw off your number. Measure at a normal, comfortable room temperature.
• Measure two or three times. Take the measurement a few times across different moments and go with the most consistent result.
• Account for wide or textured bands. A wider band, a bulky statement ring, or a ring with a large stone can feel tighter than a thin band in the same size, so it is worth sizing up slightly for wider styles.
• Consider the knuckle. If your knuckle is noticeably larger than the base of your finger, size for a comfortable fit over the knuckle first, since a ring that cannot pass the knuckle will not stay on.

What if I am ordering a surprise gift?

Sizing for someone else without giving it away takes a little detective work, but it is very doable.

• Borrow a ring you know they wear on the correct finger, even briefly, and use Method 1 above
• Trace the inside of one of their rings onto paper if you cannot take it with you, then measure the traced circle
• Ask a close friend or family member of theirs if they happen to know, since it often comes up in casual conversation more than people expect
• If all else fails, order a slightly larger size and plan to have it resized after the surprise, or choose an adjustable style

When in doubt, size up slightly

If your measurement falls right between two sizes, it is usually the safer choice to round up rather than down. A ring that is very slightly loose can often be worn with a simple ring guard or adjuster, while a ring that is truly too tight cannot be worn at all until it is resized.

Ready to order your made-to-order ring?

Once you have your size, you are ready to bring your ring to life. Browse our Made to Order collection to find your starting design, or reach out through our contact page if you have any questions about sizing before you order.