How To Measure Your Ring Size: A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to propose? Shopping for a special occasion? Or maybe it's time to drop a not-so-subtle hint? No matter the reason, your journey begins with one small but essential detail: knowing the correct ring size.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, rewarding yourself, or preparing to pop the question, a diamond may seal the deal, but the perfect fit ensures lasting comfort and will make your proposal unforgettable. At Shimansky, we make it easy. Measuring your ring size can even be done at home, in just a few minutes, using everyday items.

3 Steps to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

1. Account for Your Knuckles: If your knuckle is wider than the base of your finger, size up slightly.

2. Use the String Method: No tools? No problem. Use string or paper to measure and match your ring size to a downloadable sizing chart.

3. Measure More Than Once: Your fingers can swell or shrink with changes in temperature and time of day. Measure a few times for a reliable result.

Close-up of a woman's hand wearing a rose gold solitaire round-cut diamond engagement ring and rose gold infinity diamond wedding band. Image courtesy of Shimansky.

Step 1: Embrace Your Unique Hands

Let your knuckle be your guide. Not all fingers are created equal, and your knuckles play a big role in finding the perfect ring size. If your knuckle is noticeably wider than the base of your finger, consider sizing up by half a size. This is especially important for designs like eternity bands or wide diamond rings, which aren’t easily resized.

If you have large knuckles or are concerned about your ring size, we always recommend visiting our stores in person as we have the solution for a large knuckle for a perfect fit.

Expert Tip: For the most precise fit, visit one of our Shimansky stores where our consultants can size your finger professionally.

Image showing how to measure your ring size using ribbon and the string method, demonstrating how to wrap a piece of ribbon around your ring finger. Image courtesy of Shimansky, Cape Town.

Step 2: Use the String Method

No ring sizer? No problem. The string method is one of the most popular, simple and effective methods used to measure your ring size at home. Here’s how you can use the string method to get a reliable ring size measurement using items you already have:

Measure your finger by wrapping a thin string, ribbon, or strip of paper around the base of your finger (be sure to use the finger you’ll be wearing the ring on).
Mark the place where it overlaps and carefully remove the string, ribbon, or strip of paper from your finger.
Measure the length in millimeters using a ruler. This is the circumference of your finger.
Precision counts. Once you have the measurement, match it to the ring size chart in our downloadable guide.

Expert Tip: Be careful not to pull the string too tightly, or you might size down unintentionally.

Close-up image showing a woman's hand wearing a solitaire diamond engagement ring with the perfect fit and ring size measurement. Image courtesy of Shimansky.

Step 3: Measure Your Ring Size More Than Once

Ring sizing isn’t an exact science. Your fingers can shrink or swell depending on the temperature, time of day, hydration, activity level, and even weight fluctuations. That’s why we recommend measuring your finger multiple times throughout the day to ensure a consistent and reliable measurement.

Several factors are known to influence your ring size. Fingers tend to swell in warmer temperatures and shrink in colder ones, so it’s best to measure at room temperature. Your fingers may also be slightly smaller in the morning and larger by the evening, so measuring later in the day often provides a more accurate and consistent fit.

Expert Tip: Avoid measuring your ring size first thing in the morning. Aim for a time when your hands are at a normal temperature and size. You want a ring that feels snug but never tight.

The Final Fitting

Even with the most accurate home measurements, we always recommend visiting a Shimansky store for in-person ring sizing. Our consultants use professional tools and years of expertise to ensure the perfect fit.

Whether you're shopping for a classic solitaire, a modern eternity ring, or looking to create something custom, we’ll help you find your perfect ring size—and your perfect ring.

Image showing a professional ring sizer tool with precise measurement markings and a wooden case of ring size samples in the background used for how to measure your ring size. Image courtesy of Shimansky.

Bonus Tip: Know Your Sizing System

Not all countries follow the same ring sizing standards. The two most common ring sizing measurements are the Numeric system (e.g., 6, 6.5, 7), used in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the Alphabetical system (e.g., M, N, O), used in the UK, South Africa, and most European countries. Download the sizing chart that fits your region:

SA Size Guide: South Africa, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
US Ring Size Guide: United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Shimansky's Ring Size Conversion Chart, included in our downloadable guides, makes it easy to measure and find your ring size. If you're still unsure, our team is just a message or phone call away to assist you.

Ring Size FAQ

Why is knowing the correct ring size important?

Engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry pieces are designed to be worn daily. Beyond choosing a durable precious metal and investment-quality diamond or gemstone, the correct ring size is essential for lasting comfort, secure wear, and peace of mind—so your ring stays exactly where it belongs.

Can I measure my ring size at home accurately?

Yes! With a bit of care, using string or paper and a ruler can give you an accurate size. For extra accuracy, measure at different times of the day and avoid measuring cold fingers.

How do you measure men’s ring sizes?

Measuring men’s ring sizes follows the same simple steps. While it’s common for men to have their rings sized in-store when choosing or customizing a wedding ring, you can easily use the string method at home or follow our simple, step-by-step guide to efficiently and quickly measure your ring size.

What if I’m between sizes?

If you're in between sizes, it's usually best to go half a size up, especially if your ring has a wider band or your knuckles are prominent.

Do ring sizes change over time?

Yes, factors like temperature, pregnancy, weight changes, and even time of day can affect your finger size. That’s why we recommend measuring more than once before buying.

Which finger is the ring finger?

Traditionally, the ring finger is the fourth finger on the left hand. This custom dates back to ancient beliefs that a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart—symbolizing love and connection.

How tight should an engagement ring fit?

An engagement ring should fit snug but comfortably. It should slide on easily and offer only a slight resistance or friction when being taken off over the knuckle. The ideal fit feels secure without pinching or leaving an impression—tight enough not to fall off, but loose enough for everyday comfort.

Must I know her ring size before I propose?

We understand that finding her exact ring size can be tricky, especially if you're planning a surprise proposal. But a ring that's too tight or too loose can take away from the magic of the moment. A diamond may seal the deal, but the perfect fit makes your proposal truly unforgettable.

How do I measure her ring size without her knowing?

Keeping the proposal a surprise while figuring out her ring size is no easy feat. Some clever approaches include borrowing one of her existing rings, using the string method while she sleeps (gently!), or discreetly involving a trusted friend or family member who can help you get the size right.

Is South African ring sizing different from international sizes?

Yes. South Africa uses a letter-based system similar to the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. If you’re shopping internationally or are in the USA, be sure to use our conversion chart to find your equivalent size.

Can Shimansky resize a ring after purchase?

Yes. Most of our rings can be resized by our expert jewelers. However, certain styles like full eternity bands may not be resizable, so accurate measurement from the start is important.

Explore our collection today and book your appointment for a customer experience or assistance finding your perfect ring size.

If you would like to follow along with the article, download our ring size guide, SA Ring Sizing , US Ring Sizing .