The Ultimate Ring Size Guide

But when buying a ring online, size can be a little more difficult to determine. So, to help you along your way, we’ve put together this handy guide on how to measure your or your loved one’s ring size. 

How should a ring fit?

A ring should fit comfortably on the finger it is intended to be worn on. It should be snug enough so that it will not fall off, but loose enough for it to glide past your knuckle. However, when passing the knuckle, you should feel some resistance with a well fitting ring as this will ensure it won’t fall straight off without you noticing.

Ring size chart 

If you’re wondering how to measure a ring size in the UK, use the guide below. Please note that UK ring sizes are also available in half sizes. 

 

UK ring size	Circumference (mm)
A	37.8
B	39.1
C	40.4
D	41.7
E	42.9
F	44.2
G	45.5
H	46.8
I	48.0
J	48.7
K	50.0
L	51.2
M	52.5
N	53.8
O	55.1
P	56.3
Q	57.6
R	58.9
S	60.2
T	61.4
U	62.7
V	64.0
W	65.3
X	66.6
Y	67.8
Z	68.5

Key: 

Most common women’s ring sizes 

Most common men’s ring sizes

International ring size converter

Different countries have their own scales for measuring ring sizes. So, if you’re familiar with an international measurement, or you are using a ring from outside of the UK as your reference, use this conversion chart to help you find the right fit. 

 

UK, Ireland Australia & South Africa	US & Canada	Europe	Russia & Germany	Netherlands & Switzerland	India, China & Japan
A	1/2	-	-	-	-
B	1	-	-	-	1
C	1 3/4	40 1/2	-	-	-
D	2	41 1/2	13 1/4	1 1/2	2
E	2 1/2	42 3/4	13 3/4	2 3/4	3
F	3	44	14	4	4
G	3 1/2	45 1/4	14 1/2	5 1/4	5
H	4	46 1/2	15	6 1/2	7
I	4 1/2	47 1/8	15 1/4	7 3/4	8
J	4 3/4	48 3/8	15 1/2	8 3/8	-
K	5 1/4	49 5/8	16	9 5/8	-
L	5 3/4	50 7/8	-	10 7/8	11
M	6 1/4	52 1/8	16 3/4	12 1/8	-
N	6 3/4	53 3/8	-	13 3/8	-
O	7	54 5/8	17 1/4	14	14
P	7 1/2	55 7/8	17 3/4	15 1/4	15
Q	8	57 1/8	-	16 1/2	16
R	8 1/2	58 3/8	18 1/2	17 3/4	17
S	9	59 5/8	19	19	18
T	9 3/4	60 7/8	-	20 7/8	-
U	10 1/4	62 1/8	20	22 1/8	21
V	10 3/4	63 3/8	20 1/2	23 3/8	-
W	11 1/4	64 5/8	-	24 5/8	-
X	11 3/4	65 7/8	21 1/4	25 7/8	-
Y	12	67 1/8	21 1/2	26 1/2	25
Z	12 1/2	67 3/4	21 3/4	27 3/4	26

 

While these charts can help you find a ring size that is close enough, actual sizes may vary from 0.25 - 0.5 millimeters. Similarly, some jewellers or brands may use their own scales and measurements, which is why it is always advised to seek professional assistance before making a purchase.

How to measure a ring size

There are a number of ways to measure your ring size. These include: 

1. Visit us in-store

At Wallace Allan, we always advise that you get your ring size measured in-store by one of our professionals. This way, you can guarantee that your purchase from us will be the best possible fit, as we will take into consideration any design elements of your ring of choice and explain how these may impact how it sits on the finger. 

 

However, we understand that not everyone is able to visit us in-store. Therefore, next, we will detail a few more ways to find your ring size at home or in your own time. 

2. Use a piece of string

This is perhaps one of the most popular ways to measure a ring size yourself. Simply get a piece of string and place it around the finger you are buying the ring for, in the place and position you will be wearing it. Ensure the string is not too tight and is able to slide over the knuckle.

 

Make a mark on the piece of string and tie a knot where the two ends meet. Now, take the string off the finger and measure its circumference. Using this measurement, find the corresponding UK ring size on the chart above. 

 

Please note that strings can often stretch if forced too hard, so be careful when handling it as this can skew the measurements.

3. Use an existing ring 

If you have a ring that already fits you perfectly on the right finger, you can measure the circumference of it and use this measurement to find the right size on the chart above.

 

However, ring sizes do vary depending on their style and design, so, it is best to use a ring that resembles the one you are looking at. 

4. Use a ring sizer 

A ring sizer is a clever tool that can help you find your finger size at home. While it is possible to purchase a tool, you can download our free Ring Size Guide, with paper ring sizer included for a quick and easy way to find your perfect fit. 

Download our free Ring Size Guide

• Print the Ring Size Guide on an A4 piece of paper
• Cut out the ring sizer tool at the bottom of the page, including the slit 
• Wrap the tool around your finger, with the text facing outwards
• Pull the thin end through the cut out slit 
• Tug this end to tighten the paper around your finger, ensuring it can still slide over your knuckle
• The letter visible at the slit is your ring size
• Be sure to remember that this is only a guide and that a professional measurement is always recommended

How to measure your partner’s ring size in secret 

We understand that it’s not always possible to measure a ring size using the above methods, especially if the ring is being bought as a surprise gift or for a proposal. Therefore, we have also put together the following tips on how to measure a partner’s or loved one’s ring size more discreetly. 

1. Use something borrowed 

As mentioned above, using an existing ring for reference can help you find the perfect fit for a new one. While you can measure it yourself and use the charts to determine the right size, it is best if you can borrow the ring and take it to a jeweller for a more precise measurement. 

 

However, if you do decide to borrow an existing ring, make sure it’s one they won’t notice is missing as this may cause upset or panic, or set off suspicions. 

 

Additionally, if you are buying an engagement ring, it is unlikely they’ll have a ring for that finger already so a perfectly fitting example might be difficult to obtain. In these cases, we can help you roughly determine the size of the ring finger if you can tell us which finger the borrowed piece fits. Typically, fingers go up in ½ -1 size the closer they get to the thumb. Although, this is only an estimate and each hand is different, so a well-fitting borrowed item, or a measurement taken through another method is recommended. 

2. Use a piece of string

The handy string method can also be used in secret to find your partner’s ring size, especially if they are a heavy sleeper. This time, wait until your partner is asleep and place the piece of string around their finger. 

 

Again, make sure it isn’t too tight and that it can pass over the knuckle. And, be sure not to awake them as this might be a difficult one to get yourself out of!

3. Use your own finger 

If you can’t borrow a ring for too long, you can always place it on your own finger and make a mark where it begins to feel snug. Then, use this to measure your own finger with a ring sizer, or, come and see us in-store, or a jeweller local to you, to get a more accurate measurement. With this reading, you can shop from our extensive ring collection online, from anywhere. 

4. Ask friends and family to help

If you don’t fancy yourself a detective, you can always ask friends and family members to do the investigation work for you. Of course, you must ensure they are trustworthy and able to keep the mission a top secret in order not to ruin the surprise. 

 

But nonetheless, it is often far more natural for friends or family members to be discussing ring sizes and preferences in a casual setting, than for you to randomly bring up the topic. They could also even take your partner shopping and bring them into our showroom where we will be able to discreetly take a measurement. 

Measuring a ring size - useful tips

Before you begin to take a ring size measurement, here are a few more things to consider: 

 

• Our fingers change size depending on the temperature. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking measurements when it is cold as this is when they are at the smallest, and could result in you choosing a ring that is too tight. 
• Similarly, the time of day and our level of activity can impact the size of our fingers. Typically, fingers tend to be at their largest in the evening, which is consequently, the best time to take a measurement as the ring is guaranteed to fit and not become too tight or uncomfortable as the day progresses. 
• Due to these variations, it is best to take 3 - 4 measurements to ensure accuracy. 
• Be sure to take into consideration the type and style of the ring you are thinking of purchasing when taking a measurement, as these can impact the size required. For instance, rings with a thicker band width often have a smaller circumference so you may need to size up.
• While everyone’s hands and fingers are unique, the average ring size for women in the UK ranges between J - P, and men’s sizes between P - V. 

What if the ring doesn’t fit?

There is always the risk of a ring not fitting, especially when bought as a gift or for a proposal. Therefore, Wallace Allan offers a 14 day returns period. Our customer service team is also on hand to help should you have any further issues beyond this time. 

 

Our specialist jewellers may even be able to advise you on resizing options to ensure the best possible fit for your choice of ring. Simply get in touch with our expert team to discuss how we can help you. 

Find your perfect ring

We offer a wide range of ring options. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, wedding band or a beautiful birthstone gift, you are guaranteed to find it all in-store or online at Wallace Allan. So, now that you know your ring size, why not browse our range to find your perfect piece? 

Engagement rings

From classic to contemporary designs, our engagement ring collection has something for every style, budget and preference. Included in the collection is an extensive range of diamond engagement rings in all different types of cuts and carats. 

Wedding rings 

Our wedding ring collection includes sophisticated designs for both men and women. From plain wedding bands in gold or platinum to diamond options, there is truly a piece in the range for just about everyone. 

Birthstone rings 

Whether you’re looking for a unique ring for yourself or a meaningful gift for a loved one, our birthstone ring collection includes some desirable options. The range features rings with all types of birthstones, including sapphire, emerald, aquamarine, ruby, pearl, opal, amethyst, citrine and more. 

 

For more information on measuring a ring size, get in touch with our specialist team today.