Getting your ring size right is absolutely crucial, especially when ordering online or planning a surprise proposal. An ill-fitting ring can slip off and get lost, or worse, become painfully stuck on your finger. The good news is that you don't need to visit a jeweller to find your accurate ring size. With a few simple household items and the techniques we'll share in this guide, you can determine your perfect fit from the comfort of your home.
Ring sizing might seem straightforward, but there are several factors that can affect accuracy. Your finger size actually changes throughout the day due to temperature, humidity, and activity levels. Understanding these nuances will help you get the most accurate measurement possible and ensure your ring fits comfortably in all conditions.
Before You Start
For the most accurate results, measure your finger at the end of the day when it's at its largest. Avoid measuring when your hands are cold, as fingers shrink in cold temperatures and expand in warmth.
Method 1: The String or Paper Strip Method
This is the most popular at-home sizing method and requires only materials you likely already have. You'll need a piece of string, dental floss, or a thin strip of paper, along with a ruler marked in millimetres.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut a piece of string or paper approximately 10 centimetres long
- Wrap it around the base of the finger you want to size
- Make sure the string sits snugly but not too tight—you should be able to slide it over your knuckle
- Mark where the string overlaps with a pen
- Lay the string flat and measure the length in millimetres
- Use a ring size conversion chart to find your corresponding size
The key to this method is ensuring the string passes comfortably over your knuckle. Many people make the mistake of measuring only at the base of the finger, forgetting that the ring needs to slide over the knuckle first. If your knuckle is significantly larger than the base of your finger, measure both and choose a size that accommodates the knuckle while still fitting snugly at the base.
Method 2: Using an Existing Ring
If you already own a ring that fits well on the intended finger, you can use it to determine your size. This method is particularly useful when planning a surprise engagement ring, as you can borrow a ring your partner already wears.
How to Measure an Existing Ring
- Select a ring that fits the correct finger (remember, fingers on each hand can be different sizes)
- Place the ring on a ruler and measure the inside diameter in millimetres
- Match this measurement to a ring size chart
Pro Tip
When borrowing a ring for measurement, make sure it's one your partner wears on the same finger where the new ring will go. A ring worn on the right hand may not fit the left hand perfectly.
Understanding Australian Ring Sizes
Australia uses a letter-based sizing system that differs from the numerical systems used in the United States and Europe. Australian sizes range from A (the smallest, approximately 12mm internal diameter) through to Z and beyond for larger fingers. The most common women's sizes in Australia fall between J and P, while men's sizes typically range from R to Z.
It's important to note that different countries use different sizing standards. If you're ordering from an international retailer, always check whether they use Australian, US, UK, or European sizing. Most reputable online jewellers provide conversion charts, but it's worth double-checking to avoid disappointment.
Common Australian Ring Sizes
Here's a quick reference for typical finger measurements and their corresponding Australian sizes:
- Size J: 15.7mm diameter (common starting point for women)
- Size L: 16.5mm diameter
- Size N: 17.3mm diameter (average women's size)
- Size P: 18.1mm diameter
- Size T: 19.8mm diameter (common starting point for men)
- Size V: 20.6mm diameter
- Size X: 21.4mm diameter
Factors That Affect Ring Size
Your ring size isn't static—it can change based on several factors. Understanding these influences will help you choose a size that's comfortable in various conditions.
Temperature and Weather
Fingers expand in heat and contract in cold. A ring that fits perfectly in summer might feel loose in winter, and vice versa. If you live in an area with significant seasonal temperature changes, consider sizing slightly smaller if you'll mostly wear the ring in warmer months, or slightly larger for winter wear.
Time of Day
Fingers typically swell throughout the day due to activity and gravity. They're usually at their smallest in the morning and largest in the evening. For the most reliable measurement, size your finger in the afternoon or evening.
Diet and Health
Salt intake, hormonal changes, pregnancy, and certain medications can cause temporary finger swelling. If you're experiencing unusual swelling, wait until your fingers return to normal before measuring.
Key Takeaway
Always measure your ring size multiple times over several days, at different times of day, to get the most accurate result. A properly fitted ring should slide over your knuckle with slight resistance and sit comfortably at the base of your finger.
Width Matters: How Band Size Affects Fit
An often-overlooked factor in ring sizing is the width of the band. Wider bands fit more tightly than narrow bands because they cover more surface area on your finger. As a general rule, if you're choosing a band wider than 6mm, consider going up by half or a full size for comfort.
This is particularly important for wedding bands and men's rings, which tend to be wider than engagement rings. A size N might fit perfectly in a 2mm band but feel uncomfortably tight in an 8mm band.
When in Doubt, Size Up
If you find yourself between sizes, it's generally better to choose the larger size. A slightly loose ring can be adjusted with sizing beads or a ring guard, but a too-tight ring can be uncomfortable, difficult to remove, and may even require professional resizing or cutting off in emergencies.
Most reputable jewellers offer one free resize within a certain period after purchase. Check the retailer's policy before buying, especially if you're uncertain about sizing.
Professional Sizing Options
While home measuring can be quite accurate, visiting a jeweller for professional sizing remains the gold standard. Most jewellers offer free sizing using calibrated ring mandrels and sizing rings. If you're making a significant investment in an engagement ring or wedding band, the peace of mind from professional sizing is worth the trip.
Some online retailers also send free ring sizers upon request—plastic or metal sets of rings in various sizes that you can try on at home. This combines the convenience of at-home measuring with the accuracy of professional tools.