Are you uncertain about how to determine the right ring size measurement or figure out the size of a ring that you already own? If so, you're definitely not alone. Lot of people use Google to find tips which will help them to measure ring size correctly.
Whether it's a man who wants to find the right engagement ring size for a partner (without her knowing about it!) or a person who wants to measure ring size in a less secretive way, tips from the experts are really helpful. Another scenario is that someone wants to measure the size of an existing ring, with a mind to purchasing another one of the same size.
We have so many tips from the experts to share with you today. Our comprehensive guide will take the guesswork out of determining ring size.
Before we share these tips, let's talk about wedding rings. They are the most meaningful rings around, as they symbolize endless love and commitment. These circular rings have no beginning or end. The circles represent unions which are everlasting. Also, people wear their wedding rings on their left hands due to an ancient belief that the Egyptians held. This belief was that the veins on the fourth fingers run straight to the heart.
Since these rings are bestowed with so much symbolism, they are worn night and day. This is why accessing the right fit is so important.
How Are Rings Sized?
Understanding how rings are sized is very useful. There are ring sizes which are standard and these sizes are measured in millimeters. The measurement in millimeters is based on the circumference of the inner diameter of the ring. As with clothes, ring sizes are standardized in order to make life easier for everyone. However, as with clothes sizes, the standard sizes aren't always perfect. This means that one standard size may be different than another, even though it shouldn't be.
So, standard ring size may vary from jeweler to jeweler.
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Another possible complication is that regional variations may come into play. In America and Canada, there is a scale which is numerical, which features quarter and half sizes. In other nations, the scales may be alphabetical. They may utilize whole sizes or come with a group of adjustments for circumference.
As well, there are ring size chart deviations among different jewelers, no matter where the jewelers are located. One industry leader in jewelry (Bijouxx Jewels Chief Executive Officer, David Ryan Pomjie), says that jewelers worldwide choose from one of a couple of separate metrics for sizing. Metric options for these jewelers are:
- measuring a starting point for a ring, such as its side edge
- measuring the middle of the inner ring.
Another variable to consider is style. Certain rings, such as those which feature diamonds all along their outer circumferences, may not be sized, post-design, as changes to sizing will typically cause gemstones to fall out of their metal settings. This information comes from the creative director/design consultant, Emily Duke, who works for DiamondEnvy.
Visit a Jeweler to Get Sized For a Ring
If you aren't sure how to figure out the right ring size, and you're frustrated, you should know that any local jeweler will be able to size you for a ring. Jewelers keep metal or plastic ring sizers in their shops, along with charts for ring size and a host of other useful tools. A jeweler will utilize a tool known as a mandrel, which is a metallic wand which features size markers, in order to determine ring size. The mandrel is slipped onto the appropriate finger.
When the mandrel stops moving, the mark at which it has stopped (along the length of the finger) indicates the correct ring size. If you go to a local jeweler, you'll find that it's really easy to get an accurate reading on your own ring size. If you want to buy a ring for someone else, bring that person along and get him or her sized. It's also possible to purchase ring "sizers" via the Web and these sizers are not expensive.
To find out the size of a ring that you already own, take it to the jeweler and its staff members will help you out.
Also, you may use ring sizing charts and sizers which are found online. Just print them out and then enjoy their benefits.
How to Get an Accurate Ring Measurement at Home
If you prefer not to buy your own ring sizer (mandrel sets are also available for purchase), you should go for a ring sizer that is printable. Your other options are paper ring sizers and string tests.
With a ring sizer that is printable, you'll get a ring size which is determined by the measurement of the inner diameter of the ring. Ring size will also be based on a ring which is designed to be worn on the left hand's fourth finger (such as an engagement ring).
To get a ring size, print out the chart. You'll need to print it to actual size. To do this, select "Scale 100" from the various printing options that are presented to you. Once the ring size chart is printed, put the ring over its circles.
You should line up the inner edges of your ring to the circle which is the best match on the chart. If you ring seems to fall between a couple of sizes, pick the bigger ring size.
Instructions for Using Printable Paper Strip Ring Sizers
This type of method is a lot like using a tape measure, only it utilizes particular metrics for rings. To begin, print out the paper strip ring sizer, to actual size. Then, cut it out and open its slot, wherever it is marked. Then, slide the tip of your ring sizer through the slot that you just made. Its numbers should face in an outward direction.
Next, put the sizer upon your ring finger. Then, pull it taught in a careful manner in order to get your ring size.
How to Utilize a String Ring Sizer
This method involves using a measurement tool which is flat, along with a simple portion of string. To use this method, print the chart for ring size. Use "Scale 100" to print it to actual size. Then, wrap your portion of string around the ring finger. Cut the piece of string at the area where its end overlaps.
Next, line up the string with the guide for ring size which is found on the chart for ring size. The one which is the closest match will be your ring size. If your ring falls between a couples of sizes, opt for the bigger ring size.
These methods are good, but may not be perfect. We recommend doubling up by using two of them, rather than just one. You'll get more peace of mind and certainty when you use two methods to determine ring size. If you still have doubts and questions, go and visit a jeweler. You may need to pay a few bucks to get sized for a ring, but it won't cost much.
Ring Sizing Tips from Jewelers
Jewelers know all of the tricks of the jewelry trade. These experts have so much experience and knowledge to share. Now, we want to share some of their expert advice with you. First, consider going for a fit that is snug, rather than being on the looser side. A ring should be easy to put on and hard to get off. A snug fit will mean less chance of losing your ring.
Also, you should know that fingers tend to shift in size based on the time of year. For example, during the summer, fingers may swell up a little. During the cold-weather months, fingers may be thinner. This natural expansion and contraction should be taken into account when sizing. Also, you should know that the width of a ring will impact its fit. If a band is wider, it will have a tighter fit. It's smart to size up with wider bands. For example, go up between one quarter and half a size.
Also, if you want the most accurate sizing, you should ensure that your hands aren't really cold. Try to get them at room temperature before you size.
If you get a couple of different ring measurements or notice that a favorite ring fits tighter sometimes and looser at other times, you should go for a bigger ring size. Asking a pro jeweler for advice will also be helpful.
You May Measure Her Ring Size without Her Knowledge
If you want to measure her ring size secretly (probably, because you wish to surprise her with an engagement ring), you should know that there are ways to do it that are very effective. One option is to talk to someone close to her, who might know what her ring size is. A sister, mom or best friend will be a good person to talk to. Choose someone that you know will keep your secret for you.
Also, if she wears a ring frequently which seems to fit perfectly and it's for the same finger that you want to buy her ring for, then you may find that taking that ring into a jeweler (on a day when she chose not to wear it) is a great way to get an accurate measurement. If she rarely takes the ring off, press it into a soap bar in order to create an impression. Take the soap into a jeweler.
If you manage to get your hands on the ring for a few seconds, while she's washing her hands or something like that, slide it onto your finger and make a note of where it stops.
Once you have some information, you should be able to use at-home ring sizing methods to figure out her size. You may always consult with a jeweler.
More People Are Buying Rings Online
Part of the reason why a lot of people want to figure out ring sizes is because they plan to buy rings online. If you want to do this, you'll find that the tips which we've shared today are very sensible. Remember, you may go to a jeweler and get sized, even though you plan to order online. It's easy to do this and getting sized by a pro jeweler costs virtually nothing.
Also, you may use the other ring sizing methods (for at-home ring sizing) in order to figure things out and then order a ring which will fit perfectly. If you notice a ring sizing tool and chart at the jeweler that you're considering buying the ring from online, we suggest using that ring sizer tool and chart. The sizing tool and chart have been put together by the same people you'll be buying from.
Buying rings online is often a cost-effective decision. Also, it gives consumers access to a rainbow-riot of choices, from simple and classic engagement rings to rings with fancy gemstones, such as canary diamonds, to rugged men's fashion rings and beyond. Out in cyberspace, there are scads of gorgeous rings in a host of styles, at different price points. It's very difficult to access the same level of selection in most communities.
Some of the biggest online jewelers provide exceptional deals on rings. Blue Nile is the biggest online jeweler in the world. Paul Allen is also very popular. There are thousands of these retailers. We've mentioned a couple of big players because a lot of people who shop online do buy rings from them.
Now that you have the inside scoop on ring measuring tips that really work, you'll be ready to move forward and size yourself (or size her for a new ring!) or get help from a jeweler in your own community.
Once you know your ring size (or hers), make a note of it. You may need this important information again at some point in the future.