Find your perfect ring size: It's child's play!

Okay, hand on heart: who hasn't been there? You've discovered that one dream ring - perhaps for yourself, as a gift for a loved one or, brace yourself, as an engagement ring! The anticipation is huge until one question arises: What ring size do I need?!

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

In this guide, I'll unpack everything for you: the best methods (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 sizing pro, I promise!

Why the right ring size is so important

Of course, 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 a perfect fit is crucial:

• No "squeezing" or "slipping": a ring that fits simply sits well, doesn't interfere with hand movements and you almost forget you're wearing it.
• Safety first: Imagine losing a ring with emotional value just because it was too loose. That would be terrible, wouldn't it? The right size protects your piece of jewelry.
• It simply 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 pulled off suffers over time. And your finger will also enjoy fewer pressure points.

Get measuring: The best ways to measure your size

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

Case A: You already have a matching ring

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

The classic: measuring the inside diameter

It's quick and fairly accurate. All you need is the ring and a ruler. Even better? A caliper (one of those little tools that jewelers often use). 

1. Place the ring on a flat surface.
2. Take your ruler or calipers.
3. Now measure the inner distance from one edge to the other - exactly through the center! 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 it is also the "inner diameter". Confusing? Not at all! The German size is usually given as the inner circumference in mm. But don't worry, our table below will shed some light on the matter and show you the conversion!

Print out ring template

Many online stores or jewelers have such great PDF templates on their websites. That's super practical!

1. Download the template and print it out. ATTENTION: Make sure you print it out at a scale of 1:1! There is usually a checkbox or a line on the template for measuring. Check that! Otherwise it's all for nothing.
2. Take your ring and place it on the various circles on the template.
3. Find the circle on which the inner edge of the ring fits exactly. The inside of the circle should just be visible, but not be covered 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! Fast and uncomplicated, but...

1. Look for an app in the App Store that has a good rating (keyword: "Ring Sizer App").
2. Place the ring on the display.
3. In the app, draw 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! The 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 for measuring

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

The low-budget trick: paper strips or thread

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

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

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

The practical ring measuring tape (often called a "multisizer")

This is basically a measuring tape especially for rings and super accurate for at home. It 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 the finger where you want the ring to go.
3. Tighten the strap carefully. Again, it should fit comfortably, not slip, but also be able to be slipped over the ankle.
4. You can see the size directly in the small magnifying window of the tape measure.

The cool thing is that many online stores or jewellers will often send you a multisizer for free or for a small fee. It's worth it if you order rings online often!

The path to becoming a professional: Measuring at the jeweler

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

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

Caution! This can influence your measurement result!

This may sound fussy, but it is really important for a good result. Keep these points in mind when you measure:

• The time of day: 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: In cold weather, the fingers contract, in hot weather they tend to swell. Measure at "normal" body temperature and room temperature. Not directly after sport or when you have just come in from the cold.
• Your dominant hand: The ring finger on your "more active" hand (right for right-handed people) is usually a little 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 base of your finger, you need to make sure that the ring fits over the knuckle without needing soap! If in doubt, measure both and maybe take a measurement in between or just measure a few times to be sure.
• The ring width: Wide rings feel narrower than narrow rings, even if they have the same inner diameter. If you are planning a wide ring (from approx. 5-6 mm), it is often advisable to choose a half or even a whole size larger.
• More is more: Don't just measure once! Rather take the measurement two or three times at different times (late afternoon/evening) and take the value that occurs most frequently or the average.

The "agent move": Secretly finding out the ring size (Shh!)

Okay, now it's getting exciting! Are you planning a surprise, perhaps THE proposal? Then you can't ask: "Honey, what size ring do you have?" Here are a few undercover tips:

• The sample ring steal (for a limited time): Secretly grab a ring that your sweetheart wears on the finger you want and measure it as described above (inner diameter or template). Important: It really must be a ring that is worn on this finger and fits well! Put it back quickly!
• The accomplice: If the person has a best friend who can keep a tight lip - let them in on it! Maybe the accomplice can casually bring up the subject of ring sizes or even suggest measuring their fingers for fun (e.g. with a multisizer that you give them beforehand).
• The comparison finger: briefly place the "stolen" ring on one of your own fingers. Note exactly where it fits. Then you can measure this point on your finger or try on rings in the store up to this point. This is imprecise, but better than nothing.
• Fingerprints while you sleep? Some people try to measure their partner's finger while they sleep. This is difficult, inaccurate and carries 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! 

When all else fails: Especially when it comes to engagement rings, which are often more delicate, many people prefer to go for a slightly larger size. Why? Because it is often easier to make a ring smaller than larger afterwards! 

Clarity at last: the ring size conversion table

Okay, you have measured and got a number in millimeters (either inner diameter or inner 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).

For your information: The inner diameter multiplied by pi (approx. 3.14) gives the inner circumference. Mathematically correct! But you don't have to work it out, the table does it for you and also shows you the most common international sizes (USA, UK etc.).

Here it comes:

Please note: The sizes may differ slightly between manufacturers. It's always best to check whether the store you want to buy from has its own table or recommendation!

Help, I'm exactly between two sizes!

Happens often and is not a drama! If your measurement is exactly between two standard sizes, here are a few considerations to help you decide:

• The ring is narrow (less than 4 mm): Then you can tend towards the smaller size. A narrow ring slips more quickly.
• The ring is wide (from 5-6mm): The same circumference feels narrower here. 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 rather thin, 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 for engagement rings): If you are unsure, a ring that is slightly too big is often better. Having it made smaller is usually easier than making it bigger!

Conclusion: You can do it!

Phew, that was quite a lot of information, wasn't it? But let's be honest: it's not that complicated. Whether you use a ring you already have, a piece of thread or a strip of paper, or even a professional in a store - you now have all the tools you need 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 an eye-catcher, but also feels wonderful on your finger.

Good luck with your measurements and enjoy your beautiful, perfectly fitting ring!