When it comes to proposing to the love of your life, the right ring size is probably just as important as the right ring. Too loose, you have a ring that’s sliding around and knocking into things — too tight, and your finger’s suddenly purple!
So, whether you’re gearing up for that much-awaited proposal, treating yourself or simply helping a friend, knowing the average ring size for women can save you from multiple trips to the store.
Why Ring Sizes Matter
Your wedding ring is more than just a stone on a band. It’s a piece of jewellery you get only once in a lifetime and something you’re wearing more frequently than deodorant! When the stakes are that high, you want to make sure you don’t take any chances.
If you’re preparing to surprise her (or him!) and pop the question, and you’re not sure what size ring she wears, the average ring size for women is a good place to start.
What are Ring Sizes?
Finding your ring size may seem overwhelming at first — but it’s pretty simple! Or at least simpler than trying to remember the difference between carat and karat!
A ring size is basically the inner circumference of a ring measured in mm. The perfect fit should ideally have a slight resistance when being taken off but shouldn’t slide right off either. It’s all about striking the right balance!
It’s probably also a good time for us to mention that ring sizes aren’t standardised around the globe. Here’s a quick rundown of how a size 6 in the United States translates across countries.
- UK and Ireland: Size M
- France: 51.5
- Germany, Russia, and Asia: 16.5
- India, Japan, and South America: 12
- Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and Switzerland: 11.5
The Average Ring Size for Women
So, the average ring size for a female is generally anywhere between 6 and 6.5, which roughly translates to an average ring size in the UK as L. However, it’s important we tell you that since women tend to experience fluctuations in weight during their lifetime, it’s a good idea to add a quarter of the size just in case.
It’s super important to understand that these are average numbers, though. Everyone has different finger sizes, which are often affected by factors such as height, weight and even the weather! Keep that in mind when you’re planning that perfect proposal!
The Average Men’s Ring Size
Now, the ring size for the average man is usually between 9 and 11 — with 10 hitting the sweet spot for many. This is usually a T or a T ½ in UK ring sizing. Again, please take these numbers with a grain of salt, men’s finger sizes tend to vary just as much as women’s!
Ring Size Myths Busted
There’ve been a couple of myths going around regarding average ring size for women and men, and we owe it to you lovelies to bust them!
Bigger Hands Mean Bigger Ring Sizes
While this may be true for some, this isn’t always the case! Ring size is more about finger circumference than overall hand size.
You Can Guess A Ring Size By Looking
Sure it sounds fancy but it’s not always true. We’re not saying jewellers don’t have a knack for this, we’re saying you should opt for the traditional method.
Once You Know Your Ring Size, It Will Never Change
This one couldn’t be farther from the truth! Your finger size changes according to the time of the day, your age, the weather, your weight, pregnancy — you name it!
How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home
You’re ready to find your perfect fit and heading to your closest jeweller — but wait! You could measure your finger at home with things you have lying around! Pro tip: always measure your fingers before eating or drinking, and make sure they’re not too warm or too cold.
Here’s a couple of ways:
String Method
Grab a piece of string or even that neglected dental floss lying on your bathroom sink and wrap it around the base of your finger. With a marker, carefully mark where the string meets, unwrap the string and measure it using a ruler.
Pull out a ring size chart and compare the sizes. Make sure to check according to your region since sizes differ from country to country!
Paper Method
This method is pretty similar to the string method. You simply have to cut up a thin strip of paper, wrap it around your finger, mark and measure. Voila, you’re done!
Ring Sizer
Okay, we may have lied about the part where we said these methods require things lying around in at home — you’ll need a ring sizer for this. But don’t worry! You can get them for pretty cheap online.
It’s pretty self-explanatory and is great for when you want to be extra precise without having to do any guesswork.
Resizing Rings — What You Need to Know
So you went ahead and got your fiance a ring according to the average ring size for a female, only to find it doesn’t fit. Now what?
Don’t worry! You can always get it resized. In fact, around 40 % of rings are!
Can All Rings be Resized?
The bad news is that not all rings can be resized — only those made of gold, sterling silver and platinum. If you’ve picked out a ring with a twisted or eternity band, you unfortunately won’t be taking it on a trip to the workshop either.
Also, in case your ring has to go more than two sizes up or down, the ring will probably have to be remade completely. It’s a good rule of thumb to always ask whether a ring can be resized to avoid such unfortunate circumstances.
Does Resizing a Ring Weaken it?
A common concern amongst many people tends to be whether or not resizing a ring weakens it. If you’re going one size up or down, resizing doesn’t affect your ring’s integrity at all. This is a standard procedure where the band is carefully cut and either stretched or squeezed depending on what you’ve asked for.
Anything over 2 sizes, and the story changes completely. You’ll probably have to find a reliable jeweller to remake your ring really well so it’s just as durable as you first got it.
A Few Last-Minute Tips for Ring Hunting
Knowing the average ring size for women is a great starting place — but you may not always get it right. Here are some pieces of wisdom from us, think of it as sisterly advice if you must.
Consider the Ring’s Design
Wider bands generally fit a lot more snuggly than thinner ones. If you’ve fallen in love with a broader ring, it’s probably a good idea to go half a size up for the perfect fit.
Knuckle Size Matters
Sure the base of your finger is where your ring sits, but it does have to go past the knuckle first, right? If you or your fiance have larger knuckles, make sure you get a size that can easily slide past.
When in Doubt, Size Up
This is a rule of thumb and will never fail you. If you’re not sure what size will fit, always size up! Bigger sizes are easier to resize to make smaller than vice versa.
Think About the Future
Your wedding band will last you just as long as you live, so you need to make sure you take it into consideration when making your pick. You’ll go through pregnancies, fluctuations in body weight and even just the weather. Always pick rings that give you some leeway such as adjustable bands.
Professional Help
When possible, get your finger professionally measured by a jeweller. It’s the most accurate way to determine your ring size.
Say ‘I Do’ To the Right Ring Size
Finding the perfect ring size doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Now that you know the average ring size for women and have some tips and tricks under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to discovering your ideal fit. Remember, the best ring is one that feels comfortable and makes you smile every time you look at it!
If you and your special someone haven’t quite hit that milestone just yet, you can always browse through our collection of preloved, gently used luxury items at Love Luxury. We carry all the top brands such as Chanel, Hermes and Richard Mille and we’re sure you’ll find something you love just as much!
