How to Find Your Ring Size: A Complete Guide
One of the most common questions we receive from customers shopping for rings online is: how do I find my ring size? It's a question worth taking seriously — an ill-fitting ring is one of the most frustrating experiences in jewellery, and getting the size right before you order makes everything easier for everyone.
The good news is that finding your ring size is straightforward once you know how. In this guide we'll walk you through every available method — from the most accurate to practical at-home alternatives — as well as some important things to know about ring sizing that most people aren't aware of before they buy.
Ring Size Systems Around the World
Before we get into measurement methods, it's worth understanding that ring sizes are not universal. Several different sizing systems are used around the world, and knowing which one applies to you is an important first step.
Australia, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand and South Africa use an alphabetical system, with sizes running from A to Z+6.
United States, Canada and Mexico use a numerical system, with sizes typically ranging from 1 to 16.
Europe and Asia each have their own distinct sizing systems, which differ again from both of the above.
At Rebecca Cordingley Jewellery, we accept ring orders in both the Australian/British letter system and the North American numerical system. If you're unsure which system applies to you, our international ring size conversion chart will help you find the equivalent size across all major systems.
Two Important Things to Know Before You Measure
1. Your Dominant Hand Will Be Larger Than Your Non-Dominant Hand
This surprises many people — while your hands may look identical in size, your dominant hand is almost always slightly larger due to greater muscle development. If you are right-handed, your right ring finger will typically be a little larger than your left, and vice versa for left-handed people.
This means it's important to decide which finger and which hand you intend to wear your ring on before you measure. Measuring the wrong hand — even by half a size — can result in a ring that doesn't fit correctly.
2. Wide Band Rings Require a Larger Size
If the ring you are purchasing has a band wider than approximately 4mm for women or 6mm for men, you will need to order a larger size than your standard ring size. Wide bands sit differently on the finger and require more room to fit comfortably.
As a general guide, wide band rings are typically half a size larger in the US numerical system and a full size larger in the Australian and UK alphabetical system — but because this varies between individuals, we strongly recommend having your wide band size measured professionally where possible. Our product pages will always indicate when a wide band size adjustment is required.
How to Find Your Ring Size: Four Methods
Method 1: Have Your Ring Size Measured Professionally
This is the most accurate method and the one we always recommend first. Most local jewellery stores will measure your ring size for free, even if you are not purchasing from them. All you need to do is walk in and ask.
A professional jeweller will use calibrated ring sizing tools to give you a precise measurement. If you are purchasing a wide band ring, make sure to mention this when you visit — a good jeweller will measure your wide band size specifically, which may differ from your standard size.
Professional measurement is particularly important if you are purchasing a ring as a gift and need to measure someone else's finger, or if you are buying a more expensive piece where getting the size right the first time matters most.
Method 2: Measure an Existing Ring With Callipers
If you already own a ring that fits your intended finger well, you can use this method to determine your size without leaving home. You will need a pair of vernier, dial, or digital callipers — these are available inexpensively from hardware stores and online retailers.
Zero the callipers, then measure the internal diameter of the ring — that is, straight
across the inside of the band at its widest point. Note the measurement in millimetres, then use our international ring size conversion chart to find your corresponding Australian/British or North American ring size.
If your measurement falls between two sizes, we recommend rounding up to the larger size rather than down — a slightly larger ring is far more comfortable and practical than one that is too small.
This method is reliable provided the existing ring fits the correct finger on the correct hand, and provided you have access to accurate callipers.
Method 3: Use a Ring Sizer
We sell affordable, reusable plastic ring sizers in our online store, available in the US numerical sizing system. Ring sizers work similarly to a cable tie — you thread the end through the buckle, slip it over your finger, and tighten until it fits comfortably. Each sizer is marked with its corresponding size.
Our ring sizers cost AU$7 including postage within Australia, come with clear instructions, and are easy to use at home. While they are not quite as accurate as professional jeweller's tools, they are a fairly reliable and practical alternative for customers who don't have easy access to a local jewellery store.
If you are between sizes, apply the same principle as above and size up rather than down.
Method 4: Measure Your Finger With a Strip of Paper
This is the least accurate of the four methods and comes with a meaningful risk of getting the size wrong — but it is an option if no other method is available.
Cut a narrow strip of paper approximately 4 to 5mm wide. Wrap it snugly around the finger you intend to wear the ring on — it should be comfortable but not loose, and you should be able to slide it over your knuckle without too much resistance. Mark the point where the two ends of the paper meet, then remove it and measure the length in millimetres.
Use our international ring size conversion chart to convert this measurement to your ring size.
Bear in mind that this method is prone to inaccuracy — paper can stretch slightly, the fit is difficult to judge precisely, and small errors in measurement can translate to a noticeable difference in ring size. We recommend using one of the other methods if at all possible, and always sizing up if you fall between two measurements.
Tips for Accurate Ring Sizing
Regardless of which method you use, a few additional factors can affect the accuracy of your measurement:
Measure at the right time of day. Fingers fluctuate in size throughout the day — they
tend to be slightly larger in the afternoon and evening, and smaller in the morning. For the most representative measurement, size your finger in the afternoon when it is at its average size.
Consider the temperature. Fingers swell in heat and shrink in cold. Avoid measuring on an unusually hot or cold day for the most consistent result.
Make sure the ring can pass over your knuckle. A ring needs to slide over your knuckle to reach its intended position on your finger. If your knuckle is significantly wider than the base of your finger, size to your knuckle rather than your finger base — you can always have the ring sized down slightly by a jeweller if needed.
When in doubt, size up. A ring that is slightly too large can be resized or worn with a ring guard. A ring that is too small cannot be worn at all.
Still Not Sure of Your Size?
If you've measured and you're still not confident, we're here to help. Contact us before placing your order and we'll do our best to guide you to the right size. For customers within Australia, purchasing one of our ring sizers before ordering is always a good option — particularly for wider band styles where precise sizing matters most.
Browse our full collection of sterling silver rings — including fidget rings, stacking rings, statement rings and wedding bands — all made to order in your size in our South Australian studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my ring size at home?
There are several at-home methods for finding your ring size. The most reliable is to measure the internal diameter of an existing well-fitting ring using digital callipers, then use a ring size conversion chart to find your size. Alternatively, you can purchase an inexpensive ring sizer or - less accurately - wrap a narrow strip of paper around your finger and measure the length. For the most accurate result, professional measurement at a local jewellery store is always recommended.
What ring size system does Australia use?
Australia uses an alphabetical ring sizing system, with sizes running from A to Z+6. This system is shared with the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand and South Africa. The United States, Canada and Mexico use a different numerical system. Our ring size conversion chart covers major international sizing systems.
Do I need a bigger ring size for a wide band ring?
Yes. Wide band rings — generally those wider than 4mm for women or 6mm for men — require a larger size than your standard ring size because the wider band sits differently on the finger. As a general guide, this is approximately half a size larger in the US system and a full size larger in the Australian and UK system. We recommend professional measurement for wide band rings where possible.
Does it matter which hand I measure for ring sizing?
Yes. Your dominant hand is typically slightly larger than your non-dominant hand due to greater muscle use. Always measure the specific finger on the specific hand you intend to wear the ring on for the most accurate result.
What if I am between two ring sizes?
If you fall between two ring sizes, we recommend sizing up to the larger size rather than down. A slightly larger ring is more comfortable to wear and easier to adjust than one that is too tight. If the ring is for everyday wear and comfort is a priority, erring on the larger side is always the safer choice.
Can I have my ring resized after purchase?
Sterling silver rings can generally be resized by a professional jeweller, though this depends on the design of the ring. Some styles — particularly those with certain textures, patterns, or stones — are more difficult to resize without affecting the integrity of the piece. Getting the size right before ordering is always preferable. Contact us if you are unsure and we will advise on the best approach for the specific ring you are purchasing.