Choosing the Right Jewelry Size

Whether it’s for a gift to a loved one or for yourself, choosing the right jewelry size can be challenging.

How do you determine the right size? Does it vary depending on the model? How can you be sure you’re making the right choice? And if the size you chose isn’t the right one, what should you do?

Understanding Ring Sizes

Contrary to popular belief, a ring size refers to the **circumference** of the band, not its inner diameter.

When we talk about a size 48 ring, it means that the measured circumference of the finger is 48 millimeters. To obtain this measurement, you can use a piece of string or a flexible measuring tape and wrap it around your finger.

A ring’s size is determined either by this circumference measurement or by the inner diameter of the band.

To calculate the inner diameter from the circumference, divide the circumference by π (Pi). Fortunately, you can avoid this calculation by referring to a conversion chart like the one below.

You’ll notice that the difference between two jewelry sizes is minimal — only about 0.6 millimeters.

Adjusting your jewelry by just one size is a minor modification, but it can make a significant difference in comfort or help prevent the risk of losing it.

Choosing the Right Size

It’s important to note that finger size can vary — even throughout the day — so the concept of the “right size” for a piece of jewelry is quite subjective and depends on many factors.

Just like with clothing, even if you have a theoretical size, choosing the right ring size also comes down to comfort and personal feel. Your finger size can change over time due to age, pregnancy, weight variations, and may even fluctuate by one or two sizes in a single day!

Therefore, it’s essential to understand that you don’t need to focus on a measurement accurate to the millimeter. The goal is to find a size that feels comfortable to you.

An optimal ring size is one that slides over the knuckle with slight to moderate resistance.

The ring should go on and off without excessive effort. It should rotate easily around the finger without feeling too tight, yet offer just enough resistance to require a gentle twist when slipping it over the knuckle.

This means you can choose to wear a ring slightly tighter or looser — adjusting by about one size — especially if you know your fingers tend to swell during the summer, for example.

Determining Your Ring Size

The most accurate way to find your perfect size is to visit a professional. However, if you’d like to determine your size without leaving home, there are several simple methods.

1 – Do you already have a ring? You can use a printable ring sizer by placing your ring over the different sizes.

2 – There are also many smartphone apps available to measure your ring, such as Ring Size Finder.

3 – You can also use a measuring tape to wrap around your finger and determine its circumference, then refer to the size conversion chart above.