The right size ring awaits! Whether it’s a new everyday ring or a once-in-a-lifetime wedding ring, here’s how to determine your ring size right at home.
Shopping for a ring on Etsy means instant access to tons and tons of dazzling designs direct from talented makers. From minimalist stacking rings to statement-making styles with gems, engraving, and more, you can order rings in multiple sizes from Etsy jewelry shops. While vintage rings are typically one-of-a-kind, some jewelers offer to resize these rings before shipping them to you.
But before you can slide that ravishing new ring onto your finger, you need to know your ring size. Ordering a ring within a size or two of your actual size is preferred, and typically only fine jewelry can be resized. Keep in mind, too, that stretching a ring or frequent resizing can ultimately weaken the ring band. To ensure you get the right fit right off the bat, take a moment to follow this easy guide to determining your ring size at home.
How to measure your ring size at home
For everyday rings to engagement rings and wedding rings, here are three ways you can size your finger at home.
The string method
One easy-peasy, tried-and-true way to determine your ring size is with the string method.
- Take a length of string and wrap it around the base of your ring finger (just slightly above where it meets your hand, where you’d like your ring to rest).
- With a pen, mark the spot on the string where it first overlaps.
- Lay the string next to a measuring tape or ruler and note the length in millimeters or inches.
- Compare the result with a standard ring size chart. Many Etsy shops offer a sizer chart in their listings for easy reference.
Measure an existing ring
If you have an existing ring that fits your finger comfortably but you can’t remember its size, take a measurement of the ring’s inside diameter.
- Place the ring on a flat surface.
- Line up the zero-line of a ruler with the inside edge of the ring—you may have to place the ring on top of the ruler to see.
- Note the measurement between the two inside edges of the ring in millimeters or inches.
- Match your measurement with a standard ring size chart. If the size falls between two results, go with the larger option.
Another method is to print out a true-to-size ring size chart and place your ring on the chart’s circles to find the one that most closely matches the ring’s inside circumference.
Use a ring sizer
A ring sizer provides one of the most accurate ways to determine your ring size. Some feature a belt-like design that’s marked with size gradients and wraps around your finger. Or look for a metal keyring sizer with multiple loops for each ring size—simply slip your finger through each loop until you find the most comfortable fit. Many sellers on Etsy offer ring sizers you can order or paper printouts with a ring sizer band to help you determine your size at home.
How should a ring fit?
No matter which finger you prefer to wear your ring on, a ring should slide comfortably, but not loosely, over the knuckle and rest on your finger with a little friction.
When should you measure your ring size?
Believe it or not, the size of your fingers changes depending on the time of day and temperature. In the early morning and in cooler temperatures, your fingers are slightly smaller. Measure your ring size in warmer temperatures or at the end of the day for a more accurate reading and to make sure you choose a size that will comfortably allow for your finger’s subtle changes.
All about wedding ring sizes
How should an engagement ring and wedding ring fit together?
Often, an engagement ring and a wedding band are worn together, and many brides add additional rings to their stack over time. Typically, your engagement ring and wedding ring will be the same ring size but there are a few other wedding ring dimensions to keep in mind.
How to choose a wedding ring width
The ideal wedding band width all comes down to personal preference—some couples prefer thin, elegant bands while others love the look of wider widths. However, if you’re choosing to wear an engagement ring and wedding band together, they should generally have the same width to create a balanced and even look.
What is the standard wedding ring width?
While brides tend to prefer narrower wedding bands and grooms often choose wider bands, there really is no standard wedding ring width—the best wedding rings are a matter of personal preference. Most wedding bands range from 2–9 millimeters in width.
The shape of your engagement ring can influence the fit of the pair. If the prongs in the setting on your engagement ring are wider than the engagement ring band, for example, a curved wedding ring will fit more snugly against its partner ring.
How to choose a wedding ring height
The height, or thickness, of a wedding ring is important to its overall design, durability, and weight or how it feels on your finger. Typically, the average wedding ring’s height is between 1.5–2 millimeters, which gives a proportional look and weight without being too heavy or light. A ring that’s too thin—generally less than 1.2 millimeters—might have a tendency to bend.
Wedding ring size tip: Think about the compatibility of metals when wearing two or more rings on the same finger. Precious metals like gold, sterling silver, and platinum each have different hardnesses, meaning they can be abrasive as they rub against each other during daily wear. For example, platinum is among the hardest and most dense metals and could wear down the finish of a gold or silver ring over time.
Is it better to size up or down a wedding ring?
If you’re between two sizes when taking your ring measurements, go with the larger size. This is because it’s generally easier to adjust a ring that’s too big than one that’s too small.
Can you resize a wedding ring?
If you need a wedding ring resized, no problem! Many jewelry shops on Etsy provide resizing services to enlarge or reduce a ring size to your preference. However, keep in mind that some metals like tungsten can’t be resized, so double-check with the seller directly if you’re not sure.
