Finding the right ring size is child's play.

Finding your perfect ring size: This is how easy it is!

Okay, hand on heart: who doesn't know that? You have discovered that one dream ring - perhaps for yourself, as a gift for a loved one or, hold on tight, as an engagement ring! The anticipation is huge until one question comes up: What ring size do I need?!

Trust me, you are not alone with this insecurity. The wrong size is just annoying. The ring is pressing? Ouch! Does it keep slipping around and you're afraid of losing it? Oh dear! But don't worry, take a deep breath. Determining ring size is really not rocket science. With the right tricks and a little patience, we can do it together!

In this guide, I unpack everything for you: the best methods (regardless of whether you already have a ring or not!), super important tips that are often forgotten, and of course a handy conversion table. After this post you'll be a ring sizer, I promise!

Why the right ring size is so important

Sure, comfort is at the top of the list. A ring should feel like it's not even there, right? But there are even more reasons why the perfect fit is crucial:

• No “squeezing” or “sliding”: A matching ring fits well, doesn't get in the way when you move your hand and you almost forget you're wearing it.
• Safety first: Imagine losing a ring with sentimental value just because it was too loose. That would just be terrible, wouldn't it? The right size protects your piece of jewelry.
• It just looks better: Let's be honest, a ring that sits perfectly on your finger simply looks more harmonious and emphasizes the beauty of the jewelry and your hand.
• Protection for the ring AND your finger: A ring that has to be constantly twisted or removed will suffer over time. And your finger will also be happy about fewer pressure points.

Get started measuring: The best ways to find your size

Okay, now it's getting practical! So how do we find out your size? There are different ways, depending on what you have on hand and whether you want the measurement to remain a secret.

Case A: You already have a matching ring

Jackpot! If you have a ring that already fits perfectly on the finger the new one is intended for, this is the easiest option.

The classic: measure the inside diameter

It's quick and pretty accurate. All you need is the ring and a ruler. Even better? A caliper (a small tool that jewelers often use). 

1. Place the ring on a flat surface.
2. Take your ruler or caliper.
3. Measure that now inner Distance from one edge to the other - right through the middle! Very important: Only measure the hole, not the edge of the ring itself. 
4. Write down the number in millimeters.

This millimeter number is often your German ring size, but sometimes also the "inner diameter". Confusing? Not bad! The German size is usually given as the inner circumference in mm. But don't worry, our table below sheds light on the matter and shows you the conversion!

Print out the ring template

Many online shops or jewelers have such great PDF templates on their websites. This is super practical!

1. Download the template and print it out. ATTENTION trap: Be sure to print them out at 1:1 scale! There is usually a check box or a line on the template for measuring. Check that! Otherwise everything is a waste.
2. Take your ring and place it on the different circles on the template.
3. Find the circle where the ring with his Inside edge fits exactly. The circle should be just visible on the inside, but not hidden by the ring.

Psst... insider tip: This method is an absolute hit if you want to secretly find out the size for a surprise!

With a ring sizer app

Yes, there are even apps for your cell phone! Quick and easy, but...

1. Find an app in the App Store that is well rated (keyword: “Ring Sizer App”).
2. Place the ring on the display.
3. In the app, drag a circle to the size of the inner ring.
4. The app will then show you a size.

Honestly? Apps are okay for a first rough idea, but don't rely on them blindly! Accuracy depends on the phone display and the app itself. A physical method is usually more reliable. 

Case B: You don't have a suitable ring to measure with

No problem! Then we measure directly on the finger. Works great too!

The low-budget trick: strips of paper or thread

Everyone is guaranteed to have this at home! A simple but effective way.

1. Take a narrow strip of paper (about 1 cm wide) or a thread.
2. Wrap it around the part of your finger where you want the ring to sit. Don't make it too loose or too tight - it should fit snugly, but not dig in! Imagine that the strip is already the ring.
3. Use a pen to mark where the ends overlap.
4. Spread the strip/thread flat and measure the length from the beginning to the mark with a ruler. And indeed exactly in millimeters!
5. Tadaa! This length in millimeters is yours Finger circumference. And that is also your German ring size!

Important point: Think about your knuckle! The “paper ring” must be able to be pushed over your ankle without causing you any discomfort. If the knuckle is thicker than where the ring sits, measure the knuckle too and maybe take a value in between or just measure a few times to be sure.

The practical ring measuring tape (often called “multisizer”)

This is basically a measuring tape especially for rings and super accurate for at home. Looks like a small cable tie or belt for your finger.

1. Form a loop by pulling the pointed end through the buckle.
2. Slide the loop over your finger where you want the ring to go.
3. Gently tighten the band. Again, it should sit comfortably, not slip, but also be able to be pushed over the ankle.
4. You can see the size directly in the small magnifying glass window on the measuring tape.

The cool thing: Many online shops or jewelers will often send you a multisizer for free or for little money. It's worth it if you order rings online often!

The path to becoming a professional: measuring at a jeweler

If you want to be absolutely sure and it's particularly important (hello, engagement ring!), then going to the jeweler is your best bet. They have special tools (ring sticks, measuring rings in all sizes and widths) and a trained eye.

You can also check what the shape of your finger is (e.g. whether your knuckle is much wider) and what ring width you imagine - because that influences the size!

Danger! This can influence your measurement result!

This may sound nit-picky, but it is really important for a good result. Remember these points when you measure:

• The time: Our fingers are often a little thicker in the evening than in the morning (this is due to water retention and blood circulation). It is best to measure in the late afternoon or early evening.
• The temperature: When it's cold, your fingers contract and when it's hot, they tend to swell. Measure at “normal” body temperature and room temperature. Not right after exercise or when you've just come in from the cold.
• Your dominant hand: The ring finger on your “more active” hand (on the right if you are right-handed) is usually a bit stronger than the one on the other hand. So always measure the finger on which the ring is to be worn.
• The knuckle: This is a classic! If your knuckle is much wider than the point at the base of your finger, you'll need to make sure the ring fits over your knuckle without the need for soap! If in doubt, measure both and maybe take a value in between or just measure a few times to be sure.
• The ring width: Wide rings feel tighter than narrow ones, even if they have the same inside diameter. If you are planning a wide ring (from approx. 5-6 mm), it is often advisable to go half a size or even a whole size larger.
• More is more: Don’t just trade once! It is better to take the measurement two or three times at different times (late afternoon/evening) and take the value that occurs most often or the average.

The “Agent Move”: Secretly Finding Out Your Ring Size (Shh!)

Okay, now it's getting exciting! Are you planning a surprise, maybe THE proposal? Then you can hardly ask: "Honey, what ring size do you actually have?" Here are a few undercover tips:

• The muster ring theft (for a limited time): Secretly grab a ring that your sweetheart is wearing on the desired finger and measure it as described above (inner diameter or template). Important: It really has to be a ring on this finger is worn and fits well! Put it back quickly!
• The accomplice: If the person has a best friend who can keep it close - let them in! Maybe the accomplice can bring up the topic of ring sizes casually or even suggest measuring your fingers for fun (e.g. with a multisizer that you give him/her in advance).
• The comparison finger: Briefly put the "stolen" ring on one of your own fingers. Remember exactly where it fits. Then you can measure this point on your finger or try on rings up to this point in the store. It's inaccurate, but it's better than nothing.
• Fingerprints in your sleep? Some people try to measure their partner's finger while they sleep. This is difficult, inaccurate and runs the risk of waking the person and ruining the surprise. Rather not recommended!
• Ask the family: Sometimes parents or siblings know the size. It costs nothing to ask! 

If all else fails: Especially when it comes to engagement rings, which are often more delicate, many people prefer to choose a slightly larger size. Why? Because it is often easier to reduce a ring afterwards than to enlarge it! 

Finally clarity: The ring size table for conversion

Okay, you measured and got a number in millimeters (either inside diameter or inside circumference/German size). Now you need the table! In Germany we usually use the inner circumference in millimeters (e.g. size 54 means 54 mm circumference) or the inner diameter (e.g. 17.2 mm).

FYI: The inner diameter times Pi (approximately 3.14) equals the inner circumference. Mathematically correct! But you don't have to calculate it, the table does it for you and also shows you the most common international sizes (USA, UK etc.).

Here she comes:

Little note: The sizes can vary slightly between manufacturers. It's always best to check whether the shop you want to buy from has its own table or recommendation!

Help, I'm exactly between two sizes!

Happens often and is no drama! If your measurement falls exactly between two standard sizes, here are a few considerations to help you decide:

• The ring is narrow (under 4mm): Then you can tend towards the smaller size. A narrow ring slips more quickly.
• The ring is wide (from 5-6mm): Here the same scope feels narrower. Better take the larger size!
• Your ankle is wider: Be sure to choose the larger size, otherwise you won't be able to get the ring over your ankle.
• When did you measure? If it was a cool morning and your finger was on the thin side, maybe go for the larger size. If it was a hot summer day and your finger was perhaps slightly swollen, the smaller size might fit.

Rule of thumb (especially with engagement rings): If you are unsure, a ring that is slightly too big is often better. Making it smaller is usually easier than making it bigger!

Conclusion: You can do it!

Phew, that was a lot of information, wasn't it? But let's be honest: it's not that complicated. Whether with a ring you already have, with a thread or strip of paper, or even with a professional in the store - you now have all the tools at your fingertips to find out your ring size.

Take a moment, measure carefully (maybe even several times!) and use the chart if you need a different size. With the tips on time of day, temperature and ankles you are well prepared.

An exact measurement is worth its weight in gold. It saves you the hassle of exchanges and returns and ensures that your new ring is not only eye-catching, but also feels wonderful on your finger.

Good luck measuring and have fun with your beautiful, perfectly fitting ring!