Ring Size Guide

Whether browsing for your own wedding ring or planning a surprise proposal, getting the ring size right is important to ensure a lifetime of comfort. In order to find the most accurate ring size, it’s best to book an appointment with an expert to have your finger measured. That said, this isn’t always possible or practical - particularly if you’re planning something special for your partner.

• Step 1: Take a non-stretchy strip of paper or string and wrap it around the base of your finger.

• Step 2: Mark where the ends meet.

• Step 3: Lay the strip flat and measure its length in millimetres. Refer to our ring size chart to determine your ring size.

• Step 1: Choose one ring that fits your finger

• Step 2: Place the ring on a flat surface and measure its inner diameter across the widest part with a ruler.

• Step 3: Refer to our ring size chart to determine your ring size.

If you are preparing a proposal and want to secretly get your partner's ring size, read our article: How To Secretly Measure Your Partner's Engagement Ring Size.

A ring sizer is the most accurate way to measure your size. These are often free or inexpensive tools available online or at jewellery stores. Simply slip the adjustable ring sizer onto your finger and tighten it until it fits snugly, then note the size indicated on the tool.

At Queensmith, we provide a Printable Ring Size Guide to help you measure accurately at home. Here’s how to use it:

1. First, ensure the PDF is printed at 100% scale on A4 paper. Use a ruler to verify the scale on the printout.

2. Select a well-fitting ring that is worn on the finger you wish to size.

3. Place your ring over the printed circles on the chart. The inner edge of the ring should align perfectly with the outer edge of the circle.

4. If your ring falls between two sizes, choose the larger one for comfort.

Ring size typically has a scale of A to Z, with A being the smallest and Z being the largest. Each letter indicates the ring's circumference in millimetres. Most jewellers provide half sizes to ensure a more precise and comfortable fit.

Use our UK ring chart and compare the diameter of a perfectly fitting ring with its UK ring size. Note that your ring finger will measure differently from your other fingers, and could even be smaller or larger than the same finger on your other hand.

You may also be able to use a flexible measuring tape. Ensure this would sit securely behind your knuckle but not too tight or loose – you should be able to take it off your finger with a couple of twists.

You can also download our printable ring sizer chart to help you find the best ring size for your ring.

The average ring size for engagement rings and wedding rings varies slightly from country to country. A person’s ring size typically depends on their dress size, height, and of course, how they’re built.

The average men’s ring size in the UK differs from women’s, essentially because men and women tend to differ in height and build. That said, we all come in unique shapes and sizes, and our ring sizes are no different. There’s no completely fail-safe way to predict a ring size, but understanding the average ring size in the UK may help you learn where you (or your partner) fall in the sizing chart.

The average engagement ring size in the UK is L. Likewise, the average wedding ring size for women is also L.

The UK average men’s ring size is T – a whole seven sizes bigger than women’s.

Just as with clothes and shoes, ring sizes are referred to differently across the world. The UK ring size system uses letters, from A-Z, with ½ size increments (for example, you may have a ring size of K ½).

The US and Europe use a numerical measurement system, so a typical question we often get asked is ‘what is a ring size 10 in the UK?’.

Converting ring sizes between the various systems needn’t be difficult – simply use our UK to US or EU ring size converter below to find your size.

It’s important to know that your fingers aren’t always the same size, and they can change subtly throughout the day and over time, affected by:

• Temperature

• Ring width

• Medications & hormones

• Finger shape

• Dominant hand

• Pregnancy

• Menstrual cycle

• Time of the day that you measure

Read more: How do you know if the engagement ring will fit properly?

The best time to measure your ring size is in the evening, as this is when your fingers are at their largest due to natural swelling that occurs throughout the day. Avoid measuring your ring size in the morning or after exposure to cold temperatures, as your fingers may be smaller. Ensuring the measurement is taken at the right time of day helps achieve a more accurate fit, and that your ring is comfortable to wear at all times.

• If possible, have your ring size measured by a reputable jeweller – they’ll likely have you try on a couple of sample sizes to see what works best, and will use a professional sizing stick. We offer this service free of charge. Book an appointment to arrange your visit to our showroom
• Your hands swell slightly when hot, and are smaller than usual when cold. If you are particularly hot or cold, get your hands to temperature by running them under room temperature water
• Determine whether the size is ‘leading edge’ or ‘centre’. At Queensmith, we tend to use the ‘leading edge’ measurement and craft our rings accordingly.
• Use a non-stretchable material to measure and avoid pulling it too tightly, as this may distort the measurement.
• Consider your knuckle – If you have larger knuckles, ensure the ring can slide over comfortably without being too loose on the base of your finger.
• Measure multiple times – Take measurements 3-4 times throughout the day to account for finger size changes due to temperature or activity.
• Measure at the right time – Measure in the evening when fingers are at their largest for the most accurate fit.
• Try not to worry about the ring size too much – we’re on hand to give you the best advice regarding getting your partner’s ring size right. Once you've guessed your partner's ring size, we can accurately predict the engagement ring size. And if we don’t get it spot on, we’ll resize your ring free of charge within 60 days of collection or delivery.