How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

Getting ready to take the plunge and order that ring you’ve been eyeing? Good for you! The narrowing-down is always the hard part. But you’re not done yet. Now you’ve got to think about sizing. Getting your ring size right the first time can save you a ton of disappointment, headache and back and forth. But it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get it right up front, at least if you shop at Modern Gents where returns and exchanges are a breeze. With that said, we’re here to help you measure your finger the easy way. 

Understanding How Rings Are Measured

The good news is that there’s no real science to ring measuring and pretty much anyone can do it at home. In the U.S. and Canada, ring sizing follows a scale ranging from 0.5 to 14. You must measure the circumference of your finger — preferably in millimeters —  and then use that measurement to find your coordinating ring size according to the U.S. and Canadian standard. Note that all Modern Gents rings are made to U.S. and Canadian standard ring sizes.

The Easiest Way to Get Your Ring Size 

The easiest and most effective way to get your ring size at home is to measure your finger using a piece of string, floss or a ribbon. If you’re in a pinch, a slim strip of paper will work, too. You’ll also need a pen and a ruler or measuring tape. Here’s how to do it:

1. Try on the ring you’re the most comfortable wearing. Using a washable pen, mark exactly where the ring rests on your finger.
2. Wrap a piece of loose, thin string or ribbon around the base of your finger around the spot you marked. Wrap tightly so there’s no slack at all in the string. Use a sharpie or a dark pen to mark where the ends meet.
3. Using a ruler, measure the distance between your pen marks and record it in millimeters. This is the circumference of your finger.
4. You can now use a ring size conversion chart to translate the circumference of your finger into your standard U.S. ring size.
5. You know what they say: Measure twice, cut once! Just to be double-sure, repeat the process. If you get a different number, do it one more time.  

Tip #1: It’s Generally Wiser to Size Up

With rings, should you size up or size down? It depends, but, in general, it’s a good idea to size up on rings. That’s because it’s a bit trickier to resize rings that are too small. As you can imagine, it’s easier for a jeweler to take material out than add material in, so we’d recommend jumping up a size if you’re on the cusp.

Tip #2: See a Professional

If you’re worried about finding the right fit, you can always stop in at your local jeweler and have your finger professionally measured. Jewelers have special ring-sizing devices that will provide a perfect fit. You may also be able to purchase one of these measuring tools relatively cheaply online.

Tip #3: Measure at the Right Time of Day

You’ve probably noticed that your ring size fluctuates throughout the day, and that’s totally normal. What you eat, the time of year and the weather can have a huge effect on how your ring fits throughout the day. Make sure you measure at a time when your finger is not shrunken or swollen. For many people, ring size is the most stable in the afternoon or evening.

Choose a Company with a Generous Return Policy

Your best bet? Choose a ring company that has a simple, roomy return policy — like Modern Gents. Our entire collection of rings is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee plus a 30-Day Exchange Policy, so you need not worry too much about sizing. You might even consider ordering a few different sizes and returning the ones that don’t fit. With a lifetime warranty and a great selection of affordable options, there’s no reason not to trust us with your next big ring purchase.