Before He Puts a ‘Ring on It!’: Know the Size He Should Get

courtesy of Jessika Feltz Photography

It’s funny, but I’m not much of a jewelry gal.  I know, I know.  Feel free to gasp and guffaw accordingly :)  Even though all my girlfriends tell me it’s un-female to not love any and all trinkets that dazzle, I’ve always argued that I sparkle enough :)

However, all this played a role into the whole engagement process.  My dear, sweet husband wanted to surprise me but had no idea what my ring finger size was, and sorry to report, I didn’t have a clue either.  Thus the process for “finding the perfect fit” began.

Of course, every girl will be different – not only in size – but also in comfort.  Some girls like the tight, almost-too-snug fit because it gives them a greater sense of security.  Others, prefer it a little looser because the “spin factor” helps remind them it’s there.  Still others are concerned with climate.  If they’re in a hot, humid area where fingers can swell up like sausages, they may be more mindful and bump up their size .25″ or so… whereas ladies-in-waiting living in the artic may size down a bit to ensure the rock stays put when snow’s flying… but alas, as always, the choice it up to you. 

So, for all you ladies out there looking to find your perfect fit, the World Wide Web offers are several ways to go about it: 

• For instance, there is the String Test.  This is where you cut a small piece of string, wrap it around your finger, measure it accordingly and compare with jewelry store measurements. 
• Also, there is the Paper Test.  Several online dealers will have versions of this for you to use.  They simply provide a perforated guide that you can cut out, wrap around your finger and see where you land.  You can even try using Google Images; just be sure the scaled measurements are accurate when printed. 
• Finally, there is the “Secret” Test.  Again, if you look online, most retail jewelry stores will have a ring scale you can use for accuracy.  This is where you align a ring which you want to mimic the fit of on top of a chart to see which size will fit best.   This is the one guys can use “behind the backs” of their ladies when purchasing a ring so she won’t know about; hence, why it’s the “secret” test. :)  Of course, please, please, please note, this is the one my Mister tried – tried being the operative word - for me.  Unfortunately, he chose a ring from my childhood (yes, CHILDhood) that would’ve been perfect… if this were the 16th century and I was betrothed at the ripe old age of eight, haha.   So, make sure if your man is one who would do this, that you leave out only appropriate sized rings :)

Click here for a free PDF from Zales.com that has all three versions readily available. 

Now, while it’s always best to get a feel for the ring fit yourself, there are many obvious reasons why this can’t always happen.  So, if your actual ring can’t be there for you, BlueNile.com offers a Free Ring Sizer that will deliver plastic ring sizer to your house within 5-7 business days of your request.  SUPER handy for the girlfriend DYING to get engaged who’s looking to drop some hints or just a girl looking to buy herself some bling ;)

3 Comments May 5, 2011