Ring size measurement guide, tips and more
Ring Size Measurement – How to Do It Right
In recent years, we have seen changes in consumer habits and a massive shift toward shopping on e-commerce sites such as Israel Gifts.
Today, you can easily buy rings online without even getting off the couch.
However, the fact that you can’t try on rings before buying them can make things a little more difficult. We receive countless requests and questions about ring sizes, and we’ll try to answer the question, “What ring size do I need?”
There are several different ring sizing systems: American, European, British, Japanese, and more. In this guide, we won’t go into the different sizing systems, but will focus on helping you find your size.
With a ring size guide, you can easily find out what size ring to order. This is essential before placing an order online.
Measuring ring size with an app:
You don’t need to go to much trouble these days with tools, rulers, or other physical objects.
To measure your finger, all you need to do is download a dedicated app to your phone—there are several options for Android or iOS.
Most of them work well. All you need to do is place the ring on the screen and adjust the size of the circle displayed on the screen to match the ring—the size shown afterward is your ring size.
- Link to download the iPhone app:
There are several apps in the app store—choose the one you prefer
Measuring ring size with string or paper:
Another way to measure your ring size is with string or paper.
Mark the point where the two ends of the string meet, then use a ruler to measure the length of the string up to that point.
The measurement will be in millimeters. Once you know the length of the string, consult a size chart to find your ring size.
It’s best to take the measurement three times to get the most accurate result.
- US ring size chart. Measure the circumference of your finger and compare it to the chart to find your US size.
If you don’t have string handy, you can also cut a strip of paper, wrap it around your finger, and use a pencil or pen to mark where the two ends of the paper meet.
Here are a few tips for getting the most accurate measurement possible:
* Measure at room temperature – It’s best to measure at room temperature.
* Measure in the right place – Always measure the thickest part of your finger.
* Sizing varies between sites/countries – Make sure that the ring size you order matches the sizing system used in your country, not an international one. Make sure the ring size corresponds to the sizing system you used to measure.
* Try not to measure after exertion – If you’ve exercised, it’s best to wait and measure your finger circumference about 20 minutes later, or once your heart rate has returned to normal.
Good luck!
Ring Size Chart: Circumference, Diameter, and US Size
In Israel and Europe, the ring size is simply the circumference of the finger in millimeters. If you measured a string that is 54 mm long, you need size 54. American websites use a different scale (US), so it’s important to know how to convert. The following chart shows the most common conversions:
| Finger circumference (mm) | Ring inner diameter (mm) | Israeli / European size | US size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 46.8 | 14.9 | 47 | 4 |
| 49.3 | 15.7 | 49 | 5 |
| 51.9 | 16.5 | 52 | 6 |
| 54.4 | 17.3 | 54 | 7 |
| 57.0 | 18.1 | 57 | 8 |
| 59.5 | 18.9 | 59–60 | 9 |
| 62.1 | 19.8 | 62 | 10 |
| 64.6 | 20.6 | 65 | 11 |
| 67.2 | 21.4 | 67 | 12 |
The numbers are rounded to the nearest half millimeter. If you fall exactly between two sizes, choose the larger one: it’s easier to add a small ring adjuster than to force a tight ring over your knuckle.
Measuring with a ring you already own
This is the most accurate method at home because it’s based on a ring that already fits your finger well. Place the ring on a ruler and measure the inner diameter, from inner edge to inner edge, excluding the thickness of the metal. Then find that diameter in the chart above. A diameter of 17.3 mm, for example, corresponds to size 54.
Make sure the ring you measure is worn on the same finger and hand. Fingers on your dominant hand are usually a little thicker, and the difference can be half a size or even a full size.
Ring width affects the size
A wide ring covers more of your finger and feels tighter than a thin ring of exactly the same size. This is something we explain in nearly every conversation with customers ordering a men’s ring:
- Thin ring (up to 3 mm): Order the size you measured.
- Medium-width ring (4–6 mm): Consider going up half a size.
- Wide ring (7 mm or more), like most men’s rings: Usually go up one size.
Inscribed rings, such as the “Shema Yisrael” 925 silver ring, come in several sizes. The available sizes are listed on the product page, where you can choose your size before adding it to your cart.
When you really can’t measure: an adjustable ring
Buying a ring as a surprise and can’t “borrow” one from their jewelry box? You can choose an open-ended, adjustable ring (Free Size). These rings can be adjusted with a gentle squeeze and fit a wide range of finger sizes. The 925 silver rings category includes several such designs, and they’re also made from genuine 925 silver.
Common measurement mistakes
- Measuring early in the morning or after a cold shower: Your fingers contract, making the size come out too small.
- Measuring in the August heat: Your fingers swell. If possible, measure twice, in the morning and evening, and take the average.
- Using stretchy string: Wool or elastic string stretches and gives a measurement that’s too small. Dental floss or a strip of paper is better.
- Forgetting the knuckle: The ring needs to pass over the knuckle. If you have prominent knuckles, measure them too and choose a size between the two measurements.
Can a ring be resized after purchase?
It depends on the design. A plain 925 silver or 14-karat gold ring can usually be resized by half a size to a full size by a jeweler, by stretching it or cutting and soldering it. However, some rings are very difficult to resize:
- Rings with inscriptions all the way around, such as “Shema Yisrael” or “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine”: resizing may cut through the inscription or leave a gap in it.
- Rings set with stones all the way around: Stretching may loosen the stones.
- Spinner rings (a ring within a ring): Their mechanism is made for a specific size.
- Steel rings: Stainless steel is very hard and cannot be resized with standard tools.
That’s why it’s even more important to measure before ordering these types of rings.
Measuring for children, teens, and surprise gifts
Children’s and teenagers’ fingers are still growing. For a Bat Mitzvah ring, for example, it’s common to choose half a size above the current size so that she can wear the ring for longer. For a surprise gift for your partner, you can “borrow” a ring they wear for a moment, trace its inner diameter on paper, and put it back. You can also discreetly ask a mutual friend to find out.
Stacking rings
If you wear several thin rings on the same finger, keep in mind that three rings worn together feel like one wide ring. Consider choosing half a size above your regular size, or measure with all the rings on your finger together.
925 silver, 14-karat gold, or steel: which is right for everyday wear?
Size is only part of the decision. If you wear a ring every day, including at work, at the sink, and at the gym, you should also consider the material:
| Material | Advantages | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| 925 silver | Affordable, classic appearance, plain rings can be resized | Tarnishes over time. Easy to clean—see our guide to cleaning silver jewelry |
| 14-karat gold | Doesn’t tarnish, suitable for sensitive skin, retains its value | More expensive, can scratch with heavy use |
| Steel (stainless steel) | Highly resistant to water and sweat, low cost | Cannot be resized, so accurate measurement is essential |
We’ve been selling jewelry since 2005, and most of the ring-related questions we get on WhatsApp are about sizing, not design. A few minutes spent measuring with this guide can save you the hassle of an exchange and the disappointment of a poor fit.
Measuring for an engagement or wedding ring
For a ring for a special occasion, measure twice on two different days, in the afternoon, when your fingers are at their average size. If the ring is a surprise, you can ask the seller to order the most common size while discreetly finding out the actual size through a family member. For matching rings with inscriptions, such as “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine,” accurate sizing is especially important, since resizing may damage the inscription. It’s also a good idea to see how the ring feels when you make a fist: if it feels tight, it’s too small for everyday wear, even if it slips on easily when your hand is open.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common ring size in Israel?
For women, the most common sizes are 52–56, and for men, 60–66. This is only a general range, so it’s always best to measure.
What’s the difference between Israeli and US ring sizes?
The Israeli size is the circumference of the finger in millimeters. The US size uses a separate numerical scale: US size 7 is roughly equivalent to Israeli size 54. Refer to the chart above.
Which finger do you measure for a wedding ring?
In Israel, it is customary to wear it on the fourth finger of the right hand during the ceremony and then on the left hand, depending on tradition. Measure the finger on which you’ll wear the ring day to day.
I’m between two sizes. What should I do?
For a thin ring, choose the larger size. For a wide ring, go up one size. If you’re unsure, message us on WhatsApp before ordering and we’ll help you choose.
More guides: silver rings for women · men’s rings—the complete guide.
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