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The Lisa Angel Guide to Measuring Your Ring Size
By Sophie Carter - 12th November 2024
Finding the perfect ring size can be a tricky business, particularly if you're buying a ring for somebody else or purchasing online. Not everyone owns a physical ring sizer, and if you're one of the many people who doesn't wear a lot of rings, or isn't likely to buy a ring often, you probably wouldn't have thought about buying your own sizer. The good news is, a ring sizer isn't always needed, as there are a few different ways you can check your ring size at home. Our comprehensive guide is on hand to help you navigate the tricky science of UK ring sizes, and to ensure the ring you've chosen fits like a glove.
What are the different kinds of ring sizer?
There are a few different tools commonly used to measure rings. Most jewellers will have all three (and possibly more) of these tools, with some preferring specific tools for various reasons. These tools are easy to buy online, and come in handy for those who buy rings online quite often.
Ring size hoop - this is one of the most commonly used tools - usually by professional jewellers - and sometimes considered the most accurate. Each smaller hoop attached to the larger hoop usually has a UK/US size or dimension on it. Simply push your finger into the best fitting hoop and try a few either side to find the more comfortable fit.
Ring size tape - this tool is compact and usually quite affordable. It's a bendy plastic measuring tape with dimensions written along it. Simply pop your finger into the loop, pull the end tab and tighten it around your finger. Whichever number the arrow on the tab points to is the correct ring size for your finger and can be easily translated to a UK or US ring size using a size table.
Ring size mandrel - often used for people who make rings, this long metal (or sometimes plastic) tool features all UK and US sizes on one side, and all corresponding dimensions on the other side. Only really beneficial when you have a ring in front of you to measure, you'll need to place your ring on the end of the tool, and wherever it sits comfortably will indicate the size of the ring.
How do I find my ring size without a ring sizer?
If you're in a hurry to measure your ring and you don't have a ring sizer handy, you'll be pleased to know there are still some ways you can find your perfect size. Grab an existing ring to fit the same finger if you have one to hand, and get measuring. If you don't have any rings for reference, however, there is still a way you can find your ideal size.
How to measure the diameter
Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure from one side of the inside of the ring to the other, then use this mm dimension against a ring size chart.
How to measure the circumference
Use a soft, malleable measuring tape and wrap it around the finger you're looking to measure. Use the mm dimension on the tape against a ring size chart. If you do not have a measuring tape, wrap a slim slip of paper around the base of your finger, mark where the end meets, and measure this mark against a ruler to find the mm dimension. Then compare this dimension against a ring size chart.
How do you buy a ring for someone without knowing their size?
If you're looking to gift someone a ring, whether for a birthday, anniversary, or even an engagement, there's a strong possibility you won't know their size. After all, it's not something people tend to slip into conversation unless it's relevant. There are a few different ways you can sneakily buy their ring without having to ask them directly for their size.
1. Take (borrow) a ring from their collection that you know they wear on the same finger, and measure this
2. If you're hesitant to take a ring, you can quickly measure their ring by drawing around the inside with a pen and paper and use a ring size hoop to compare your drawing to one of the rings. If you don't have a ring sizer, take your piece of paper into the store you're buying the ring from, and ask to compare this to their ring sizer
3. If you're struggling to get your hands on one of their rings, take a chance and buy a ring you know can be easily resized, but remember that it's much easier to resize a ring that is too large, than one that is too small, so take a guess on how slender the person's fingers are and go for a ring you know will likely be a little too big
Adjustable rings
If you're still finding ring purchasing a struggle, or you're just too nervous about the possibility of getting it wrong, it is always worth remembering that adjustable rings are a failsafe option. Adjustable rings offer a great, sometimes quite unique style that also functions perfectly for anyone who wants to wear the ring. These rings are usually open-ended, with the two ends meeting as part of the design, and come in various shapes, colours, styles, and metals. Explore our great range of adjustable rings to find the perfect piece for you, or the person you're gifting to.
3 benefits of adjustable rings
1. Ideal for gifting - you may not always know the recipient's ring size
2. Long-lasting - the ring can simply be adjusted if your fingers fluctuate in size
3. Versatile - the ring can be adjusted to and worn on any finger
Got your dimensions ready but still unsure what ring size they equate to? Use our handy UK ring size table to find your perfect size
With so many ways to measure a ring, you'll likely be able to find your perfect size with ease once you know what to look for. Simply follow our handy guide to measure your ideal size, and get shopping to create a ring stack to be envied. Our wonderful range of rings has something suitable for all styles, with silvers and golds in abundance, and a huge variety of statement rings, everyday rings, adjustable rings, and stacking rings to choose from.
