11 Things You Need to Know about Engagement Ring Sizing

2/10/2016

Ring sizing has its own chapter in the book of advice on buying an engagement ring. So as part of your ring education, check out this definitive guide on how engagement ring sizing works.

1. Understanding Ring Sizing By Numbers

Here in the US the ring sizes are based on a numerical scale. These numbers are based on the circumference of the inside of a band, expressed in millimeters. Sizes start at about a 3 (teensy) and go up to about a 15 (giant). The difference from one whole ring size to the next a matter of 2-3mm in the circumference of the inner part of the band, where it touches your finger. The difference between a comfortable ring size and one that either falls off or causes you to panic it’s so tight could be the matter of a 1mm difference in the inner ring circumference. You’ll see half sizes (size 5.5), quarter sizes (7.25) and even “loose” and “tight” sizes, which are basically like an ⅛ size increment. For example a “tight 6” is basically a 5 ⅞. The vast majority of people have a ring size somewhere between 4 and 12. For those of you abroad, we cover European ring sizing later in this post.

2. Basic Ring Finger Knowledge

Engagement rings and wedding bands are generally worn on the left ring finger, which is usually smaller than the right ring finger, as most people are right-handed. If she’s left-handed, that finger will be a tad larger than her right hand’s ring finger. Why? Usually, the dominant hand’s ring finger is ½ a size larger than the non-dominant hand. This is important, as most women don’t know what their left hand ring finger size is but many know what their right hand ring finger size is. Catch our drift?

3. What is Her Ring Size?

The average woman’s ring finger is a size 6, for a ring that is about 2-3mm wide. When you go to a jewelry store, most women’s rings in the case are either 6 or 6.5, and the bands are all about 2-3mm wide with a few exceptions. The vast majority of engagement rings will be in the range of 5.5 - 6.5. Of course it’s not uncommon to be smaller than a 5.5 or larger than a 6.5, but almost all engagement ring orders in the US fall in this tight range. These size differences vary by very small amounts. For example, the difference between a 5.75 and 6 ring size is so so so so slight. Just eating too much salted popcorn can cause your fingers to swell more than a 1/4 size the next day. So don't get stuck in the weeds on sizing. If you know she's somewhere between a 4 and a 4.5, stay with the larger end and you'll be ok. Making adjustments after the fact is totally normal.
That said, if a ring were a basic t-shirt:
Small hands: 4.5-5.5
Medium hands: 5.75-6.5
Large hands: 6.75-7.5

4. Consider the Width of the Ring

The wider the ring (or rings), the tighter it will fit on a finger. PAY ATTENTION, there will be a test. If you love a ring that is on the wider side ( 5mm and up) consider going up about a ½ size for every millimeter past 4mm. Keep in mind that adding a wedding band to stack next to an engagement ring will increase the width.

engagement ring sizing guide for wide rings

5. Strategies for Figuring Out Her Ring Size

Ok, it’s time to get your MacGyver on. Somehow you misplaced that piece of paper with your girlfriend’s professionally measured perfect ring size. DAMMIT. Don’t worry, we have ways:

Ring Size Measurement Methods that DO work:

Send us a picture of your girlfriend where we can see her hands - we’ll be able to give you a pretty solid size based on a picture. Sounds weird? It is. We are weirdly good at this. (See image to the left, likely a size 5.5) NOTE: we are no longer able to extend this service to folks for free who are not engaged in a client relationship with LITTLE BIRD. If you would like to connect with us for help, contact us here.

Pick a ring that she can resize, and let the jeweler know that you’ll likely need to do that.
Ask her close friend or family member.
Try swiping a ring that fits her and pressing it down over a tapered candle. Then bring that to a local jeweler and try to match it to one of their official “ring sizing bands” or measure the circumference of the indent in millimeters and use this chart

Ring Size Measurement Methods that DON’T work:

Don’t try to tie a string or wrap a piece of paper around her finger in her sleep. Just don’t. This is a futile mission. Ring sizes vary by such small degrees that you’re just not going to get it right.
If she’s in on the secret then don’t use a free plastic ring sizer or a free ring size guide that you printed out online. They can be misleading. Have her go into a store and be professionally sized using a metal ring sizing set.
Don’t use the same ring size you got from the giant cocktail ring she wears on her middle finger.

6. How to Pick a Ring Size for an Eternity Ring

,,Eternity rings feature diamond accents that go all the way around the band of the ring. If you’ve got your eye on a sassy channel set diamond eternity ring style keep in mind that these rings cannot be resized. Don’t order one unless you know her size for sure, or you have a jeweler who will guarantee to remake the ring for you in the correct size if you need to. If she's between sizes, go with the bigger size.

7. How Does a Jeweler Resize a Ring?

Resizing a ring means that a tiny little surgery needs to occur on the part of the ring under the finger. They will heat it up, split the band at the back, and either add a bit of metal to increase the ring size or subtract a little bit to decrease the ring size. Resizing can be more complicated, but this pretty much covers the basic procedure.

8. Read the Fine Print

MAKE SURE that you have a ring sizing policy and/or a return or exchange policy in writing. Larger jewelers offer ring resizing policies that include eternity rings. To you it’s a resize, to them it’s an exchange because they need to make a new one. Here’s an analogy: if you buy a fancy Al Capone hat that doesn't fit, sometimes they can stretch it to fit you and other times you need to straight up exchange that piece of flair for a bigger one that will fit your noggin. All those brains you’ve got up there… use them to figure out whether or not your have a solid ring sizing and exchange/return policy in writing. ***Side note: custom designed rings often don’t come with an exchange or return policy, but a simple free resize within 1 size up or down should always be offered.

9. How to Plan for Ring Sizing in your Future

It’s a long a winding road and there are many situations in a person's life that may call for a size adjustment - usually up. Adding a wedding band to the situation increases width, and what do we know about increased width…? Increased with makes rings fit tighter. Maybe your engagement ring hurts going over the knuckle, ouch. And let’s face it, we aren’t getting any smaller as we age. Tissues and joints tend to expand over time and during pregnancies - fun times. How many times in a ring’s life can it be resized? Usually you can resize a ring twice in it’s lifetime. Sometimes more depending on how simple the band is. If there are no gemstone accents, you have a lot more leeway in terms of future resizes. If the band of your engagement ring is spangled in gems, resizes should be limited or avoided in some cases. There is strategy upon strategy with how to deal with this and sometimes things like sizing beads, sizing bars and euro shanks come into the picture. Don’t go cross-eyed, just drop us a line if you have questions about this. We will hook you up with answers.

10. European Ring Sizing

Yep, this question comes up for a number of reasons:

We have clients all over the world. Hey Dubai!
Maybe you are hunting down a super specific designer in another country or you’ve found an antique ring so one of a kind that you simply must ship it from Amsterdam to Wisconsin. Cool. I hear you. I’ve almost done it myself.
Or maybe, just maybe you’re in London and just really feeling yourself and you thought you knew her ring size was a 6, but how do you convert that over?

You can easily Google it or you can use this handy European ring sizing conversion chart. Note, the average UK ring size for a woman is M ½ (6.5)

11. Men’s Wedding Ring Size Pro Tips

The average ring size for men is 8, and that’s for a ring that is about 4-6mm wide. When you go to a jewelry store, most men's rings in the case range from a size 8 to a 9. Men tend to wear just a single wedding band. There are MANY different styles, and NO you don’t have to match your ring to your partner’s. Wear what you want boys! Check out some of our favorite men’s wedding bands.

Little Bird is all about offering engagement ring buying tips. The best way to buy an engagement ring is with our help, so feel free to drop us a line and we will be happy to spend some time on ring size advice.

182 Comments

Shane Lear

9/25/2016 02:25:41 pm

Is it possible to downsize an eternity band from a 12 to a 9 by adding metal? Is there such a thing as a ring guard, if not?

LITTLE BIRD link

9/30/2016 09:55:52 am

Hi Shane! It's going to be difficult to actually size an eternity band at all. A drop down 3 sizes will be tough and the likely fixes may render the ring uncomfortable to wear. You could have the ring rebuilt, or you could try a combination of more metal and possibly a rubber ring guard (easy to find on Amazon). Good luck!

Val

10/2/2016 12:31:47 pm

Can a size 7 ring be resized to an 11 ??

LITTLE BIRD

10/2/2016 02:29:20 pm

Hi Val,

This is a big size jump, but it is still possible with some rings. Is it a simple, plain band? Are there gemstones set into the band?

Ashley

10/9/2016 07:04:56 pm

My ring size is a 3, would I have to have an engagement ring made for me or can my guy get a ring and have it sized down?

10/9/2016 07:07:49 pm

Hi Ashley! Most engagement rings are made to order because every body has a slightly different ring size, metal choice, and all central stones are ultimately unique. So you can order a ring in your size, or you can possibly size a ring after receiving it - just depends on the ring style, whether or not there are lots of diamond accents and how big of a size jump you need to make. Hope this helps!

Danny

10/25/2016 07:17:28 am

Hi Little Bird. I'm about to buy an engagement ring, my girlfriends ring she regularly wears on her middle finger is 16.00mm in diameter. What size in US should I get her for her engagement finger?

Any help would be much appreciated.
Kind regards

10/25/2016 08:45:25 am

Hi Danny! Congrats on your ring hunt! I hope it's going well. As far as the ring size goes, her middle finger ring is about a size 5.5. Usually your ring finger is quite a bit smaller. This ranges for everyone but .75-1.5 sizes is usually the leap from middle to ring finger. This means that she is likely a 4-4.75 on her ring finger. It also depends on which hand of hers is dominant, right or left. If she's right handed, her ring finger will be .25-.50 sizes larger than her left hand (most people wear an engagement ring on the left). So there's some figuring to do. I hope this helps! Feel free to reach out for further detail and support at contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com

all the best!
Danielle

10/25/2016 09:00:06 am

Thanks Danielle, that's really helpful, I'll be able to figure it out from your advice.

I do have one final doubt before I make my purchase. I really like thin bands but some people advise that 1mm bands are not strong enough. I dont want to make the thickness too big because I like the appearance of a thin band but what do you recommend is safe to make sure it lasts longer?

Kind regards
Danny

10/25/2016 09:09:16 am

Hi Danny,

Yep, 1mm is way too small for an engagement ring. Without seeing the whole ring design your envisioning, it's tough for me to give the most specific advice. However, 1.5mm is really the thinnest we would recommend from a structural standpoint. Again, feel free to email images to contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com if that would be helpful!

D

Aishah

11/20/2016 03:58:47 pm

Hi Shane!

I was wondering if you could help me out with the width translation, just a little confusing. My partner wears a size 6.5 and width of the ring is 8mm. According to the formula I should get a size 8 but I know that would be huge! Help please!

Little Bird

11/20/2016 07:58:53 pm

Hi Aishah - Happy to help! This depends a bit on the shape of your partners fingers. A 7.5 might work as well, but you'll definitely want to size up a bit from a 6.5. Is the ring you are interested in getting resizable?

Jeff Gear link

11/27/2016 11:52:40 pm

This is an excellent post about engagement ring sizing. It is really informative. I am based in Europe so am really appreciative of the European size conversion chart you have linked to!
I think your tip about reading the fine print on sizing and getting it in writing from your jeweler is great. I am a jeweler myself and I always want my customers to come away knowing that if there is any issue with sizing it can be resolved once it is all clear from the beginning.
Jeff

11/28/2016 08:21:27 am

Thank you for the note, Jeff! Since you're a jeweler, and we often have clients in Europe, I thought you might want to check this out:
http://www.littlebirdtoldyou.com/little-bird-preferred-vendors.html

With care,
Danielle, LITTLE BIRD

Connor Bertoch link

11/30/2016 07:35:57 am

Thanks for the article on sizing engagement rings. I am getting everything ready to propose to my girlfriend, and I want everything to be perfect. She is left handed, so it is really good that you mentioned to add a half a size to her right hand ring finger size. If I didn't know that, the ring I bought might not have fit her!

11/30/2016 09:08:51 am

Connor! Thank you for the note! Congratulations, you must be super excited. I hope you'll let us know how it goes. Fingers crossed that the fitting is perfection ;)

with care,
Danielle, LITTLE BIRD

Holley Lauren

12/1/2016 10:15:06 am

I'm wondering how big a difference there is between a 5 and 5.25. My wedding band is a 5 and jewelers tell me it fits well, but I really fee like it is just a smidge too tight. I'm afraid in warmer months it will really bug me. Will going up .25 make it too big? It will still be under my engagement ring, so I don't think I have to worry about it being too loose. Maybe it will spin a little, but I don't think I would rather have that than feeling finger claustrophobia.
Thanks!

12/1/2016 10:40:56 am

Hi Holley,

Sounds like sizing up .25 is the way to go. Our fingers can fluctuate .25-.5 just throughout the day, so a .25 jump will not make it too loose if it's feeling restricted. Go for it!

Dawn

12/9/2016 09:39:48 am

Thanks for this post! I have a bit of a sizing conundrum. My half eternity engagement ring is a 5.75 and fits well, a bit loose sometimes, tight but I can still get it off when my hands swell (which is very rare). It's 1.5mm wide.
I ordered two wedding bands, one is totally plain rose gold, the other is an eternity band. They are both 2mm wide. They were also made size 5.75 since me e-ring fits well. But they are a total STRUGGLE to take off. As in my finger is bruised, I had to get oils involved etc. And I planned to sometimes stack all three, but even just one of the bands is hard to get on and an epic fight to get off. I'm having them sized up next week - I was thinking of going for size 6 but will .25 make enough of a difference? Should I go for 6.25?
(my engagement ring was originally a 6.5, way too big. Spun constantly and came off easily which is why we sized down to 5.75). Any advice would be appreciated!

12/9/2016 10:15:06 am

Hi Dawn! I hear you. This can be tough. When you stack multiple rings, they become tighter for sure. The good news: your rings don't all need to be the same size. And you can resize your rose gold band more than once down the line should it ever be too tight. However, you can't easily resize an eternity band down the line. Is your jeweler going to remake it for you this time as part of a free resize policy? If that's the case, then I would size up for the long haul. We aren't getting any smaller over time - so to ensure that you can always wear that eternity band, I would take it up a bit more than you need right now. Maybe a 6.25? That's your call. You can always wear that one toward the base of your finger so it doesn't fall off. And because there's no center gem on that ring, you won't have a spinning rock situation. Does that make sense? As for the rose gold, since you can adjust it later if you ever need to, I would take it up to just a size 6. That way all your rings should fit comfortably. Happy to give you more advice should you need. Feel free to contact me directly: contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com

Linda

12/11/2016 01:04:35 pm

Can a size 6.5 size ring be sized to fit a 7.25 finger

12/11/2016 09:20:18 pm

Hi Linda!

This is certainly not a big ring size jump for most rings. So it's likely that this will be easy. However, it does depend on the ring and it will have to be looked at by a jeweler to verify. You're welcome to send an image of the ring to contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com and we will be happy to give you our opinion.

Liza

12/13/2016 12:53:10 pm

Hi little bird! I have my eye an antique ring that's currently size 5.5. I'd need to size it up to 9.5. It's a simple, plain thin shank on a double prong ring with 2 small single cuts on the shoulders on each side of the center diamond. Do you think this is resizable?!?! I can send you the pictures I have from the seller if helpful.

12/13/2016 03:42:59 pm

Hi Liza!

This could be possible, but I would be able to give a more solid opinion if I could see an image. Feel free to send it to contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com and we'll take a look!

12/14/2016 05:23:33 pm

Thank you - you guys are the best!! Will let you know what I end up choosing to do.

Hope

12/26/2016 08:20:09 am

Hello! I just got engaged and my ring is a size 5. It feels a little loose. It doesn't fall off, but it is fairly easy to slide over my knuckle with little resistance. The thing is, I'm nervous to get it resized to a 4.5--- especially after reading about how adding another ring (wedding band) can make it feel/be tighter. What should I do?

12/27/2016 12:42:09 pm

Hi Hope! Congratulations on your engagement. SO much fun :)

You can try a couple of things. I recommend finding another ring, or a couple thinner rings to stack with your engagement ring to see if increased width does in fact make the fit better.

If you then decide to resize, know that you can always do a 1/4 size adjustment instead of a full 1/2 size.

Without seeing the ring, I don't know how well the piece will take a resize (or multiple resizes over a lifetime), but I recommend asking your jeweler if they think it's ok to take it to a 4.5 or 4.75 now and if it will still be sizeable upwards in the future. We aren't getting any smaller ;)

I hope this helps!

with care,
Danielle, LITTLE BIRD

Marie

12/30/2016 06:29:28 pm

My guy bought me a beautiful slim engagement ring, it's a size 5.25, it still feels a tad loose? But a size 5 is too tight.what should I do.lisa

1/2/2017 05:18:58 pm

Hi Marie,

If you already have the ring in hand, the best thing to do is to visit a local jeweler for specific advice. There is such a thing as an 1/8 size adjustment. OR, you can try to wear the ring stacked with a few thinner bands. The increased width will make it feel tighter and more secure. If you plan to wear another ring with it down the line, such as a wedding band, this is a great way to find out how the increased width aids the fit of the band. I hope this helps!

Cara link

1/3/2017 08:39:35 pm

I am a female & fell in love with a ring that is for a man. I want to wear the ring on my middle finger which is a women's size 8. Would a size 8 in a mans size fit me? If not ,what would the be the size I should get ? I wear a size 8 in a women's ring. Thank you so much for your help. Cara

1/3/2017 08:45:52 pm

Hi Cara! Happy to help. Men's and women's ring sizes are the same. So unlike shoes, you can trust the sizing will remain consistent. Sounds like a size 8 should do the trick. I hope this helps!

1/9/2017 08:10:37 am

Hi :) hoping you can help me. I got a new Vera Wang engagement/wedding set this Christmas after 26 yrs of marriage. I have been wanting to upgrade to white gold for quite a few years. My ring was sized to a 5.5 which is my current ring size, however I felt it a tiny tad too big, although it did stop at the knuckle. Is this normal for a new ring set to feel larger?? I am trying to decide if I should send it out again to be resized to a 5.25 or if I should just keep it a 5.5?? I am having a anniversary band added to the other side which should add some width to it, so perhaps keeping it the 5.5 makes most sense? any insight would be so helpful!

1/9/2017 02:34:00 pm

Hi Marie! Congratulations! 26 years :) Awesome!

It's not normal for a new set to feel larger or smaller, but it's possible that this ring is a different width on your finger and therefore feels looser. It's also WINTER. Never underestimate how the weather can affect the feel of your rings. I would wait till you have more width on the ring to resize them. When will you have the other anniversary ring? Perhaps you'll want to buy a silver ring in a size 5.5 that will be a similar width in the meantime, so that you'll know how the set plays on your hand?

1/9/2017 06:20:48 pm

Hi! Thanks for your reply. I've decided to keep my rings at 5.5 for a few months to see how the summer affects my hands. I am having the anniversary band sized to add onto the set now as we purchased it on Friday. Hoping the width it adds helps to make it feel right ☺
Marie

Mark

1/18/2017 08:09:32 am

Hello. :)
So after 10 years I am finally going to ask my lady to Marry me. I want it to be a surprise and could use some help figuring out her ring size. (Hey that rhymes! Hehe.) Anyways her "Pinky" finger on her left hand is a size 6. Would you suggest getting a size 7 or 7.5 for her ring finger?

Thanks,

Mark

1/18/2017 09:54:40 am

Congrats, Mark! So glad you reached out! Looks like you have a lot to look forward to this 2017. I'm happy to help you figure out her ring size. In order to get you a solid estimate, we need a few bits of info. Go ahead and email your answers to contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com :

1. What is your partner's approximate height and shoe size?

2. Do you have a couple more pictures we can check out?

3. Right or left handed?

4. Do you have an image of the general ring style you are considering? Doesn't have to be the exact one. Just so we can get an idea of the shape and width of the ring you are envisioning for your partner.

We will take a look at your answers and provide you a sizing breakdown!

Jordan

1/24/2017 03:16:20 pm

Hi there! I was hoping you could help me out. My engagement ring is size 5 1/4. It it very hard to get past my knuckle even in cold weather when my hands aren't swollen (they swell a lot in the heat) -- but the ring itself is loose once it's past my knuckle. It feels secure and great. It is pretty much impossible to get it off in the heat of summer. I've been wearing it for a year, and I wear it all the time, and it doesn't hurt from being too tight. I just got my finger sized, and it is a 5 below the knuckle and 5 1/2 at the knuckle. So the question is -- what size wedding band do I go with? The ring I have picked out is a size 7 vintage ring, gold with a row of diamonds on the front. I am totally open to wearing it on top of the engagement ring instead of below if the base of your finger is the smallest (I assume). Should I get the ring sized down to a 5.5, a 5.75, a 6? I have a size 6 ring that fits perfectly on my right hand, and when I am trying them on together on the left it feels find in either stacking order -- maybe a tad too loose on the 6, but it's winter. I'm thinking 5.75? I can't try it on before deciding, unfortunately. Help!

1/24/2017 04:09:26 pm

Oh dear, Jordan! The situation you've described is real! I'm more than happy to get you some specific advice. Shoot me an email to danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com so we can go a bit deeper and have the ability to attach images. I'll help you strategize this!

1/24/2017 04:49:03 pm

Thank you SO much Danielle!! You're a lifesaver! (Well, a ringsaver...) :D

Dusty

2/21/2017 06:04:09 pm

Hi! I'm looking at purchasing a wedding set from Costco. They offer size 5,6, and 7. My future bride is a size 6.5. I'm wondering if it would be better to purchase the size 7 and resize down or buy the 6 and resize up? Also, should I buy both the engagement ring and the wedding band in the same size? I thought that would be obvious, but after reading that multiple rings can make a set feel tighter, I feel like it is worth asking. Thanks in advance!

2/21/2017 10:29:31 pm

Hi Dusty!

Glad you reached out! Do you have a link to the specific setting? Some rings are easier to size up than down, and vice versa.

I generally recommend waiting to buy the wedding band with your partner, so that you can get yours at that time as well. It all depends on your schedule for getting engaged and then married, however. Also, she might prefer a different wedding band other than the exact match. You never know!

Let us know if you can shoot an link to the style you are considering! You can also email it directly to danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

with care,
Danielle

Star

2/23/2017 09:19:48 am

It's my 10 year anniversary. My husband ring has been way too big all these years.He been wraping bandaids, tape, wte he cn thick around it. I want to surprise him finally . I went to jewler it was 10 1/4 size. I got it 9 1/4 cuz jewler said 1/4 s and halfs didn't make much of a difference. Did I jump to far out my tree? Should I gotten half size? I know its easier gettn smaller than to enlarge. Please help. I'm so worried it might be too small

2/23/2017 11:01:17 am

Hi Star! I'm happy to help you think through this. First of all, the ring can likely be resized again. So worst case scenario is that it gets readjusted. Fingers crossed I'm correct in that assumption, as most men's wedding rings can be resized pretty easily by a jeweler. A whole size just is definitely a big change. However, the difference between the original size and the new size is about a 2.5mm adjustment in the inner circumference of the ring. I would imagine that if he can wrap a bandaid around the base of the ring, that this might actually call for a whole size change. So, take a deep breath :) and know that it's likely going to fit! If not, you can always adjust it up a .25-.50 size. I hope this helps ease your worries. Please let me know how it goes! I think there's a chance you nailed it!

Danielle

Emily

3/13/2017 01:43:49 pm

Hi Little Bird,

I found a perfect ring, but it is a size 7 and I wear a 4.5. It is a platinum wedding set combo with diamonds running a little more than halfway down the side. Would sizing down this ring from a sz 7 to a 4.5 going to damage the ring? I have heard that some diamonds may fall out during the process, but are they also likely to fall out after the resizing is complete?

What other risks should I know about?

Thanks,

Emily

4/3/2017 04:06:45 pm

Hi Emily,

Just following up here! I hope you received my email. Let me know if you need any help with this!

with care,
Danielle - LITTLE BIRD

Scott

5/7/2017 07:51:48 pm

Hi Little Bird - I have the same question... almost exactly the same question. I just proposed recently, I could only get a size 7, my fiancee is a 4.5 or about that. The info for the ring says it can be safely sized to a 6, but can it feasibly be sized to a 4.5 or 4.75? Description of the ring is the same, except it's gold. Diamonds about half way down the ring, and it's a bridal set.

Alternately, is there some kind of ring that can fit inside the bridal set to effectively size it down to a 4.5 without actually resizing it?

Thanks!

4/11/2018 06:51:45 pm

I am interested in your opinion on sizing a ring with side diamonds down two sizes. will I be able to tell it was resized? will it compromise the ring or the diamonds? thank you. Marie

Simone

4/1/2017 08:34:26 am

Hi Little Bird,

Thank you so much for the info, I've found it so useful. My question is regarding my engagement ring. According to 2 different jewellers my ring size is 4.5 and my engagement ring is 4.5. My ring has a thin pavé band which is pretty snug over my knuckle. I have to use some force, but on my actual finger is it pretty loose. It twists and slides freely. I was wondering for my actual wedding band should we order a size 4? Or do you think the addition of a 4.5 pavé wedding will help with the "loose-ness"?

4/3/2017 04:08:55 pm

Hi Simone!

Great question! I would recommend getting your wedding band in the same size, 4.5. Will it be an eternity style ring with diamonds going all the way around? Regardless, the increased width will help with the spinning. From there, if the e-ring still shifts because of the center stone weight then you can elect to add sizing beads to lessen that spinning effect. I hope this helps!

4/4/2017 10:59:21 am

Thank you so much for your response! I feel much better about what size to order now. Oh and sorry about not clarifying, the wedding band is not an eternity band. The diamonds extend only half way around the finger, the rest of the band will be solely platinum.

Thanks again!

4/4/2017 01:56:56 pm

My pleasure, Simone! xoxo

Bridal Engagement Rings link

4/20/2017 05:19:18 am

It's definitely worth stopping by, thanks for sharing this great article!

5/10/2017 05:14:03 pm

So glad you came by! xoxo THE BIRDS

Lily

5/10/2017 03:24:52 pm

Hi Little Bird,

I just recently got engaged with a ring purchased online. It's way too large and I went to two stores that said I was a "true 5". However, the band is pretty thin at 1.9mm. It fits pretty snugly on my middle finger (maybe a tad too tight) and still a bit loose on my dominant right hand.

I am unsure if I should resize to a 5 and add beads if it spins or size to a 4.75. I don't like it too floppy but I also don't want it too tight!

Thanks for your help!

5/10/2017 05:13:39 pm

Hi Lily!

Glad you reached out! Can you email me an image of the ring? contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com - also, just confirming that you did order it in a size 5 and it's "way" too large" It sounds like you might be more like a 4.25 if the ring is a size 5. The beads will depend on the type of ring, so I'll check out an image once you send it over. If you are to resize, taking it to a 4.75 likely won't be enough. Is it the issue of getting it over your knuckle? If so, then you might size to a 4.75 AND add beads. Once you add a wedding band, it will stop the spinning as well. It's just what happens if your fingers are quite dainty ;)

5/10/2017 06:02:08 pm

Thanks for your response!

I am sorry I did not mention that the ring I have is a 5.5 (I can shake it off my finger) and the jewelers sized me at a true 5.

Oops sorry for the confusion!

What kind of views of the ring should I send? Happy to do so!

Thank you!!!

5/10/2017 06:04:41 pm

Ah, 5.5. Got it! The top and side view are fine. Thanks!

Brittany Poss

5/22/2017 12:57:41 pm

I am trying to purchase another band for my current ring which is sized at 6.5. The custom order is sized to a 7 and would be an additional charge to resize it to 6.5. Is this too big of a difference in sizing and therefore won't match up correctly?

Thank you in advance!

Jacob

5/22/2017 09:55:30 pm

Hey little bird!!! I was just wondering, my fiancé and myself got a titanium ring for me! It's a size 10 and I'm a 9.5. I wear the ring and it stays on, not really worried that it will fall off, however if my finger gets wet it might come off easily. I'm only 22 so my fingers might get bigger overtime, but I've heard titanium is difficult to resize. How risky is it to stick with this ring? What would you advise? Return it and get a smaller one?

5/23/2017 01:43:14 pm

Thanks for the email, Jacob! I responded there :)

Beverly

5/25/2017 07:27:00 pm

Hi!

I stumbled on this article shortly after my fiance and I found a ring I loved. We found it online and he's understandibly worried about sizing. I've never worn rings, so I haven't the slightest clue where to begin. I know looking at my hand (my dominant I'd my right) that I'm more than likely a bigger size because my fingers are on the cunkier side.

I know the practical thing would be to go to a jewelers and get sized, but my daily life plus some personal anxiety leave little to no time to go see one. Could you please help me?

5/27/2017 09:21:09 pm

Hi Beverly,

So glad you reached out! Please email me directly at danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com and I will help you get as close as possible. It would be great if you could include a link to the ring in your email and then we can take it from there.

Tasha

6/24/2017 10:44:43 am

Hi little bird,

My fiancé gave me his great grandmother's engagement ring when he proposed. It fit fine when I tried it on several years ago and he forgot that, so he went and got it sized up from a 7 to an 8. It's huge now and it's also an antique. When the band was stretched the jeweler didn't engrave the new portion of the metal and now it looks unfinished. Also, I noticed that there is now a small crack in the top of the ring on the metal work (it's an art deco ring), that is most likely from resizing it. I wanted to know if sizing it back down to the original size will damage it further or if I should just wear it on a chain and leave it alone. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

6/26/2017 11:13:04 am

Hi Tasha!

I'm so glad you reached out. What an interesting situation! Yes, it does sound like the ring is suffering a bit from the sizing and resizing again might be problematic. It would be ideal to work with someone to specializes in antiques. Ideally we can get this ring back on your finger! Where are you located? Feel free to email me directly at danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

with care,
Danielle

Sali

7/24/2017 11:46:12 am

Hi. I just had an heirloom platinum ring sized down. (I'm not sure the original size, but it used to fit my middle finger and now fits my ring finger.) The jeweler did not give me my cut out back. I meant to ask about it, but forgot. Is it worth calling to ask for it back? Would they even still have it? It is a very thin band, and I'm sure there wasnt much metal taken out, but I still expected to get it back?

7/24/2017 01:21:13 pm

HI Sali!

This sounds like it was about a 1-1.5 size change. The amount of metal they took was likely 1.5mm by 2-3mm. This is suuuuuper small and most jewelers do not provide the scrap metal from an adjustment like this. It's likely the jeweler does have the metal in scrap pile. They use scrap for repairs, etc but it doesn't have much value. So it's not abnormal that you didn't receive it. If it had a lot of sentimental value, then I would say you might reach out about it. They might be able to tell you which little piece of metal it is. However, rest assured that it has very low value beyond that. The resizing process is high heat and it's possible for metal to melt away during that process, and you didn't have very much to start with.

I hope this helps!

with care,
Danielle

Colby

8/10/2017 10:06:15 am

So my fiancé's engagement ring is two large but the wedding band fits. I went to have the engagement ring adjusted to match the size of the wedding band, but it turns out the wedding band is about half a size larger. I'm seriously scratching my head on this one especially cause the engagement ring is a bit wider, an thus should be larger. Any thoughts?

8/10/2017 11:00:09 am

Hi Colby!

This is a bit odd! It might have to do with the shape of her fingers. She should visit the jeweler with both rings so that they can assess the situation in person and recommend the correct sizing for each. I hope this helps!

Sam

8/31/2017 05:36:38 am

my ring size went from a 5 to a 4 my fiance wants to get me a new ring before the wedding as we have had a 3 year engagement. I still wear the 5 it does not fall off I can just take it off a little easier when washing the dishes. I heard that fingers can change when family planning/ after kids like fingers can swell. would it be safer to stick with a size 5 or should I get the 4 or maybe a 4.5? looking into a band with little diamonds all the way around i know those cant be resized. Also can plain band or solitaire rings only be sized down or can they be sized up too?

8/31/2017 07:47:15 pm

Hi Sam!

I recommend visiting a jeweler to be professionally sized one more time! A whole size change is a big jump and it would likely make a larger difference in comfort. One really can't wear a ring that is a whole size too large for them. So my guess is that a 4.5 sounds good, but it's best to be professionally sized in person to be sure ;)

As for sizing, you can size up as well as down!

I hope this helps and congrats on your upcoming nuptials!

with care,
Danielle

Monica Woodmansee

9/13/2017 01:42:33 pm

My fiance and I were gifted with a very close friends started wedding set. The engagement and wedding band are already melded together. They are both printed with 10KP AM on the inside. They are size 6 but I need about 9.5 to 10. Is that feasible?

9/14/2017 09:48:51 am

Hi Monica!

Glad you reached out! It's hard to say without seeing images of the rings. Are you able to send them to me via email? contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com. Also, were you professionally sized?

Cynthia mays

9/17/2017 04:20:40 pm

If me and Me and my boyfriend wears a 9.5 they dont sell half sizes should I go with a 9 or a 10 on our ring fingers

9/18/2017 09:40:40 am

Hi Cynthia!

The best thing is usually to order the ring in the larger size and then have it professionally resized. You'll just want to make sure the rings can be resized. I recommend confirming this in writing with the company you are ordering from. I hope this helps!

Adrian

9/21/2017 05:28:29 pm

I bought my girl a size 7 Vera Wang engagement ring from a private party. Her ring size is 10.5. The ring has small diamonds down the sides. Can this ring make this big a jump?

9/21/2017 06:10:02 pm

Hi Adrian!

Happy to provide an opinion! Without seeing the ring, it's hard to give a firm opinion. However, I can tell you that sizing a ring up 3.5 sizes is a good sized leap and will likely make the diamond accents a bit compromised. I'm happy to give you a more detailed opinion if you would like to email me an image! danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com :)

Sean

9/26/2017 10:20:09 am

Hi! I'm narrowing in on a size for my wife (unconventional wedding and ceremony - but still want to surprise with a beautiful ring). I took two rings to a jeweler for sizing - one is too big on her and the other is too small, they're both old family jewelry. One jeweler said they are size 4 and 6, the other said size 5.5 and 6.75. They both used the tapered measuring tool right in front of me. The former sounds small, but now I'm confused! Help!

9/26/2017 02:57:13 pm

Hi Sean! I'm happy to help. Ok, if you really want to make sure you're nailing it, here's what to do: can you send me images of both rings? Also, trace both of them on a piece of paper with a thin tipped pencil and find the internal circumference in millimeters. From there, I can help you figure out the right size to go with! danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

with care,
Danielle

sophia carol

10/1/2017 07:30:44 pm

Hi !
Just purchased a 14k , 1.9mm width ring. It is a size 6, but once it gets passed my knuckle it is a bit larger then I would like. It slides around. I was going to have it resized to a 5 3/4. Would you agree with this decision?

10/1/2017 10:03:47 pm

Hi Sophia!

Yes, that might be a good idea but it depends on a few other things... do you currently wear another ring along side yours? Like a wedding band? The increased width will make the ring feel 1/4 size tighter. So something to consider if you're going to eventually wear a band. The other option is that add sizing beads, which is worth considering if your ring is fragile to resize. Do you have a local jeweler who can help you with this?

Hope this is helpful :)
Danielle

Faith

10/20/2017 01:56:43 pm

Hello, I’m planning on buying my boyfriend a promise ring and I used my ring on my ring finger (size 7) as a reference to figure out the size. it was only about 1 size off but, my ring is fairly thin. The ring im trying to get is a 8mm comfort fit, how much bigger do you think I should go up in size?

10/23/2017 09:32:26 am

Hi Faith!

Yay! How exciting. If you think your BF is once size larger than your thin ring and you are imagining an 8mm ring, then I would recommend an 8.5-9.5 for him. Perhaps you strike it down the center and start with a 9. I hope this is close, but the only way to know for sure is to have him professionally sized by a jeweler. Whatever you do, make sure the ring you select can be resized. You can easily ask the retailer to confirm.

Best of luck!

Joe

11/1/2017 09:47:01 am

Hi Little Bird!

I recently got engaged and the band is 2mm sized 6.5.

When we were looking at engagement rings the local jeweler at first thought I was a 6 but then said I was a 6.5 after sizing me.

I’ve had the ring for 3 weeks and my 6.5 ring is pretty loose so far. It doesn't come off on its own but it slides between the base of my finger and knuckle (my knuckles are the biggest part of my finger) when I’m driving or running. The ring comes off very easy, barley touching my knuckle if I keep my finger straight. I also don’t feel comfortable washing my hands with it on. I really thinK it needs to be resized but it’s been in the 40 degrees here and I'm afraid in the summer my finger might swell or that later in life my finger will get bigger. I talked to the online jeweler we got the ring from and they can resize it by quarter sizes. Should I resize to a 6.25? Is it worth it and will I be able to tell a difference? Please advise.

Thank you!!

11/1/2017 03:03:55 pm

Hi Joe! Congrats on your engagement!!

Happy to shed some light on this for you. In order to get the ring resized, you'll likely have to visit a jeweler to drop it off. My recommendation is to get professionally sized while you are there. From the sound of it, you may want to go to a size 6 - a quarter size is pretty slight. Realistically, this is a matter you'll want to dig into in person with a jeweler and the ring in hand. I hope this helps!

Cathy link

11/2/2017 09:17:58 am

So true! I don't know who told men about this ring measuring technique while asleep. Thanks for pointing that out Danielle

11/2/2017 09:23:16 am

btw. could you tell me more about the service you offer?

11/2/2017 12:30:16 pm

Hi Cathy!

I think there's something sort of fun about playing 007 and trying to figure out ring size. My aim is always to make things easier and less complicated. The old measure her ring size in her sleep tactics, well it's pretty complicated and usually doesn't lead to the right size ;)

As for our services, we are unaffliated engagement ring guns for hire. We offer advice and guidance to help folks navigate this process and get paired with the right designer/jeweler based on their vision (which we help them develop). We always start with a complimentary consultation in order for us to 1. learn more about you and to capture the details you already have down, 2. help get you pointed down the right path based on your preferences. From there folks can choose to have us support them further in the process if needed!

Michael Payden

11/10/2017 08:51:52 pm

Hi.

I bought my wife an expensive gold engagement rin less than two years ago. To the best of my recollection, it was sized down from 8 to 7.

Today, the ring split across its bottom. Because of the construction of the upper ring, the ring fell apart into two pieces. Fortunately, this happened at home so the pieces could be found. The ring has never been subjected to anything but normal wear.

Do you have any thoughts as to what might have caused the ring to split?

Thanks.

Mile

11/13/2017 11:20:20 am

Oh no! I'm so sorry to hear this Mile! Rings can react to damage and wear and tear in a myriad of ways. They are like little crime scenes and they need to be inspected under magnification in order to render a diagnosis. Is there a local jeweler where you can take the ring? Perhaps the jeweler who originally resized it?

Wendy

11/14/2017 07:36:34 am

I have a soldered engagement/wedding ring set that I am selling and the prospective buyer wonders if it could be resized from 6.5 to 7.5. There are stones in both bands but not more than half way on the band. Is that doable?

11/14/2017 10:12:30 am

Hi Wendy! Glad you reached out. This is a tough one to make a call on remotely. You'll need to take it to a local jeweler to get an opinion. You're also welcome to send me a few images of this set: contact@littlebirdtoldyou.com - if I see pics, I can give you a better opinion!

Hope this helps!

Marcos

12/10/2017 12:47:00 am

Hi i just bought my girlfriend an engagement ring n its a 6.5 but she is a actual 7 will it fit im a lil Shakey about it.

12/10/2017 04:47:54 pm

Hi Marcos! Glad you reached out! If she is a 7 then a 6.5 will likely be a little snug. Have you considered having a local jeweler adjust the size before you propose? If you want me to weigh in, you can email me images of the ring at danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com :)

Karee

12/21/2017 09:23:35 pm

I received my engagement ring in size 5.5 and it can be taken off fairly easily. It also tends to spin and diamond ends up on side or bottom of finger. I had my finger sized and size 5 does take a little more work to get off. Do you think a half size is enough to keep it from spinning? It is a thin band (less than 2mm). I do plan on getting a matching wedding band later (also thin).

12/26/2017 10:55:03 am

Hi Karee! Congrats on your engagement! The spinning issue is sometimes separate from the issue of a ring being too large for safe daily wear. Shoot me an email and we can continue the convo over there. I have a bunch of questions for you ;) danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

Quynh

1/2/2018 10:16:32 am

Hello! Thank you for your post! I am hoping you could help me out with my ring sizing question. I recently went to a jewelry store and he said I am a size 5. It’s a perfect size snug and can be taken off. But my bf thinks I should size up to a 5.5 to account for pregnancy in the future or swelling of fingers due to weight gain or summer time, etc. I am not sure if I should go with a 5.5 or even do a 5.25? I don’t really like the thought of wearing a ring guard and just want my ring to fit perfectly with a little wiggle room. What are your thoughts on this? Thank you so much!

1/2/2018 10:22:35 am

Hi Quynh! Glad you reached out. It is wise of you both to think about the fit of your ring into the future. If you live in an extremely cold place, or were cold at the time of sizing, well hydrated, etc, then it's possible you will have a moment down the line where the ring is more snug feeling. Our fingers fluctuate by about a 1/2 size during a 24 hour cycle, so there is no such thing as the perfect size that fits "properly" 100% of the time. A 5.25 will be ever so slightly larger, so that's not going to make a huge difference and may account for warmer weather, etc. One of the best things you can do if you are on the fence is to be sized professionally more than once. Seems like overkill, but it's worth it! From there, you'll just need to think about the structure of the ring and how easy it will be to resize it up/down in the future. What does the band of you ring look like? Diamond accented or plain metal. Be sure to ask your jeweler how easy they think it will be to resize in the future.

I hope this helps!

1/6/2018 12:41:27 am

Hi!!

My boyfriend got my a promise ring for Christmas. It was too big for the finger I wanted to wear it on. Son we took it to me resized. We live in Spain. It’s a simple silver band with half way around. It was originally a 14. She used a right mandrel and set of ring sized rings. She told me to get 11. But I was worried that may get too small when I’m warm. So They took it down to a 11.5. As we picked it up at night it was cool. And felt really loose still. It slid off my fingers with ease. Now it’s day time it’s tight. Making me wonder if the 11 would now be really tight. Do you think I should get it made smaller. Or just be very careful at night ?! Is 1/4 size smaller possible?
Thank you

1/8/2018 03:23:51 pm

Hi Ashley! Our fingers fluctuate by about a 1/2 size during a 24 hour cycle, so there is no such thing as the perfect size that fits "properly" 100% of the time. One thing that will make a difference, aside from temperature, is the width of metal on your ringer. Wider bands will feel tighter, thinner bands will feel looser. So if your fingers are fluctuating that much, you might experiment with adding a another stacker to that finger when it's cold. I have two other thin rings that I wear on another hand and when my engagement ring feels a little loose (if it's cold out!) then I move one of my skinny bands over to that finger to increase the width and tighten up the fit. It can take some time to understand exactly how a ring should fit, sometimes months. Give it some time before you make another size adjustment, and see if having a little stacker band on hand will help in the meantime!

I hope this helps!

xo,
LITTLE BIRD

Misty

1/23/2018 01:05:47 pm

Can you resize a 9.5 men wedding band to 11 without adding gold?

1/23/2018 01:11:43 pm

Hi there! Happy to give you some advice! Good question. It depends on the type of metal the ring you have is currently made of. Have you visited a jeweler with it?

2/3/2018 11:31:28 pm

Hey, I got married a few months back and my husband just recently bought a gorgeous upgraded ring for me! However it’s a sterling silver with rose gold accent and is a size 7, I’m currently a size 9. There’s no real diamonds in the band that I can tell, so I’m assuming it would be easy to resize it up?

2/5/2018 10:32:07 am

Hi De! Glad you reached out. I hope the blog was helpful. The best and only way to know if your ring can be sized is to visit a local jeweler. I hope this helps!

Levi

2/5/2018 10:00:53 pm

Hey little bird, I got a ring for my gal for Valentine's day and I got it a size 6 because they didn't have half sizes and she's between a size 6 and 6.5. It's plated in gold so I don't know if it's possible to resize. Should I return it?

2/6/2018 12:09:22 pm

So sweet! Love it, Levi. If it doesn't fit as is, you can likely have a local jeweler resize it, but they will also have to charge to replate the ring as that plate will come off if sized. Also, you need to know the base metal. Does the original retailer have that info? You'll just want to call a jeweler to ask if they resize your particular kind of plated gold first so you don't waste your time looking around town. Perhaps make a few calls before Valentine's Day ;)

Poppy

2/7/2018 04:09:47 am

Hi there....I just bought 2 diamond bands from a lady....they are very substantial not flimsy and 1 carat each in a channel setting and pave set border of smaller diamonds...I wanted to use them as ring guards for my 1 carat solitaire either side...the problem is they are both a size S UK =9 US ? So very large...and I am a size K 1/2...to a comfortable L or so..if need be can stretch it to a M 1/2 or N maximum...would it be possible to resize down to any of those sizes? The stones design does not go right round full circle its basically on top view..left to right with ample room of plain white gold once the design ends. Please what are thoughts I love this design and obviously the lady loved them as her engagement ring sat in the middle also. What could be done here. Thank you in advance. Regards Poppy

2/7/2018 09:43:10 am

Hi Poppy! Glad you reached out! You are welcome to send a few pics to my direct email danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com and I can take a look and give you my opinion. Ultimately, you'll need to visit a local jeweler and have them take a look in person. But I can check them out remotely for sure and you let you know what I think!

Sandra

3/5/2018 12:35:10 pm

Hi, I just recently got engaged and got a size 5.5 in an engagement ring 4mm wide and a wedding band about 3.5mm wide. I have fairly straight fingers without a large knuckle. I feel a little claustrophobic with the ring and fiddle with it a bit throughout the day. But it is easy to take off. But I've got some anxiety about the ring being too tight, but also worried if I size up 1/4 up it'll be too loose. I've also read about the dreaded ring "muffin top" and now am very self conscious about it. Can I send pics of the rings to see what you think?

3/5/2018 02:43:59 pm

Hi Sandra! Congratulations on your engagement! You are welcome to send me images! danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

3/5/2018 03:11:09 pm

Will do! I will send to you now. Thank you.

3/13/2018 11:51:23 am

Hello,

I have found a size 7 that i would like to purchase, but my gf's ring size is a 4.5. would that be too much of a size change that would make the ring uncomfortable? Or if i were to get it re-sized to a 5, would it be too loose?

3/13/2018 12:07:18 pm

Hi Jordan, I’m glad you reached out! I would not recommend sizing a ring down 2.5 sizes in most cases. However, it does depend on the actual ring. The very best thing that you can do is to contact a local jeweler and ask them if they think it is possible. Ultimately, a local jeweler will have to be the one to resize the ring. Is it antique? Or is it a ring that can be made in the correct size to begin with? I do not recommend getting a ring that is half size larger than your partner’s ring size. I hope this helps!

jordan

3/13/2018 01:03:13 pm

The ring i was looking at is a perfect ring but just the wrong size. this is not an antique. It would be from Macy's but they only have it in size 7.

3/13/2018 02:01:29 pm

The very best thing that you can do is to contact a local jeweler and ask them if they think it is possible - perhaps email them an image of the ring. Ultimately, a local jeweler will have to be the one to resize the ring. Hope this helps!

pegi

4/2/2018 11:46:58 am

Hello. I am at work, sitting at my desk and can't stop worrying about my ring. Couple of days ago my fiancée bought it for me while I was still in the USA. It is size 7 and too big for me. Today I went to a jewelry shop here in my country and was told my ring size is 11 and that I should come tomorrow to see with the jeweler if ring can be re sized. It is white gold, half eternity ring (has small stones half way around the band). I am so scared that it might not be possible to have this ring re sized. What do you think, is it possible? Size that I would fit is 6 once converted to US size chart. Please tell me it is possible to resize it. Thank you!
p.s. I love the way you write, read all these comments and your text.

4/2/2018 12:14:31 pm

oh, ring was given to me by my fiancé, not fiancée- sorry.

4/2/2018 02:21:59 pm

Hi Pegi! So glad you reached out! And congratulations to you and your fiancé ;)

It sounds like you are sizing the ring down 1 whole US size, is that right? From a 7 to a 6? If that's the case, I would say it's possible but also very important that you ask the jeweler what their policies are in the case that a small accent comes out. Additionally, I would think about the weather and the fact that you might wear a wedding band with your ring in the future AND the fact that we aren't getting smaller the older we get! So perhaps you would decide that Summer weather plus the addition of another band and age might mean you size down a bit less than a whole size. At any rate, ask how these aspects may affect size when you go in. You might settle at a lesser adjustment, maybe .5-.75 size adjustment.

Is the jeweler you are visiting the same jeweler who made the ring? Is it possible to visit that jeweler?

Regardless, sizing down one size is considered ok. You just need to ask all the right questions so that you are fully informed.

I hope this helps!

with care,
Danielle

Lana

4/15/2018 10:09:23 am

My husband and I have been married nearly 30 years. Due to Raynauds disease, I have lost 2 sets of wedding rings. I used to wear a six. I’ve found a beautiful set for sale that someone is selling that’s a 7. Are most jewelry places willing to resize a ring that wasn’t purchased at their store? And/or can a size 7 ring be resized to a 5.5?

4/16/2018 10:57:31 am

Hi Lana! Congratulations on your 30 year! WOW!

Yes, you can usually find a good local jeweler - often not a chain - who will be able to resize your ring for you. That size difference sounds doable, it just depends on the ring itself. The best thing to do is find someone local who does jewelry repair and take it in for them to look in person. If they are far away from you and you don't want to take the trip, then call and ask if you can send images of the ring first. I hope this helps!

Hannah

6/13/2018 09:35:24 am

Hi Little Bird,

This is an amazing post! Thank you! I wondered if you might have some advice. I'm not having an engagement ring, but a diamond set wedding band in an twisty pattern. I first tried it on in a UK size I, which happened to be the one they had in the shop. My hands were quite warm and I was worried my fingers looked a bit swollen around it, but it was comfortable enough although quite hard to get over the knuckle. The jeweller said it was the right size, but I felt like she was maybe just trying to get me to buy it there and then. So I went to a different branch closer to home and asked to have my finger sized before I tried anything on. They suggested a size J. So I ordered the ring in a J, but now I have it I'm worried it's too big. It is comfortable, but if I shake my hand really hard (like I can't imagine I would ever do in real life) it does come off. I feel like either way I'd be worried it's the wrong size, but I really don't want to lose it!

6/13/2018 12:06:08 pm

Hello there! Well, that does sound like it needs to be adjusted. You shouldn't be able to shake your hand and have it come off, no matter how hard you shake it ;) Is it resizable?

6/13/2018 01:19:19 pm

Thank you! I'm not sure but I will take it in and ask. I seem to be half way between the two (which doesn't technically exist!). Typical!

Zack P

7/6/2018 02:13:27 pm

I love the post on ring sizing, very informative! Never thought that a wider band would make it feel tighter.

I do have a question though. I plan on proposing to my girlfriend, and I know that she is able to wear US sizes 9-10 on her left ring finger. The issue is that she does have some health issues which will cause her hands to swell up quite frequently. How should I size a ring to fit that won’t cause issues? Really wish there were rings made for this specific issue.

7/9/2018 12:32:52 pm

Hi Zack!

How exciting! Congratulations. Sounds like you have a lot to look forward to!

Sizing is difficult for everyone, so you aren't alone. The most important thing will be to choose a ring that can be easily adjusted. So this means you'll want to avoid pave diamond accents in the band. Does that make sense? I would also recommend selecting a ring in the 2mm width range with a tubular or dome shaped band that has a comfort fit inner edge. this will help the ring to be comfortable to wear. Additionally, I recommend you make sure the ring can sit flush with a wedding band. If you ask your jeweler this, they will certainly be able to point you in the right direction.

You're also welcome to take us up on a complimentary consultation to talk through the other properties of the ring you are picturing for her: http://www.littlebirdtoldyou.com/the-bird-call.html

with care,
Danielle
LITTLE BIRD

Montse

7/10/2018 09:24:41 am

Hi little bird, so my girlfriend high school class ring is a size 8 but she says in other jewelry stores that she's a 7 ? What size would she be in a guy ring ?

7/10/2018 09:31:26 am

Hi Montse,

Men's and women's ring sizes are universal. The reason for the size difference could be that they are measuring her left ring finger. If she is right handed, that finger will be approximately 1/2 larger than the ring finger on her left hand. Furthermore, class rings are often wider and wider rings fit my snugly meaning you have to size up. So if it's a wide ring that she wears on her dominant hand then it would make sense that she needs 1 size larger. Based on what it seems is the case, it would be reasonable that she was a size 7. I hope this helps!

Brian

7/11/2018 07:03:51 am

Do you still have the ability to guess a ring size from a photo? Is there a certain place I should send it?

7/11/2018 01:05:45 pm

Hi Brian!

So glad you reached out! I'm happy to help you figure out your girlfriend's ring size. Please email images and answers to danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

1. What is your partner's approximate height and shoe size?

2. Do you have a couple pictures we can check out where we can see her hands and her stature?

3. Right or left handed?

4. Do you have an image of the general ring style you are considering? Doesn't have to be the exact one. Just so we can get an idea of the shape and width of the ring you are envisioning for your partner. No worries if you don't know yet ;)

We will take a look at your answers and provide you a little sizing breakdown!

with care,
Danielle

Praveen Shankara

7/13/2018 09:21:15 am

Hello,

My girlfriend mentioned her ring size is 5.5. But regarding the small increase in the size (maybe with some salted popcorn)... is it recommended to get a 6 just to be safe, or go with 5.5?

7/15/2018 03:17:22 pm

Hi Praveen! Great question. There is no perfect science with sizing and it's possible that once she gets the ring on her finger or adds a wedding band to her hand down the line that she may want more room. You *could* go with 5.75 as 6 is a larger jump. But for now, my recommendation would be to go with what she told you, a 5.5. Confirm with your jeweler that the ring you select can be resized and ask them about their policies so that you are clear. Lastly, you could always have her go get professionally sized again before you decide! I hope this helps!

Michelle

7/18/2018 06:04:53 am

Hello!
I recently got engaged and the ring was too big at first (fiance got me a 7) so I've had it resized down to a 6 based on the recommendation of the jeweler. The problem is, even though it's currently summer and my hands do swell a bit when I'm outside in the heat/humidity, when I'm inside in the a/c it feels WAY too loose. The ring comes off with no resistance and even fell off yesterday. This is making me SUPER paranoid for winter since we only have 3-4 months of hot weather here and the rest of the year it's fairly cool. A 5.5 feels too small...would the 5.75 really make enough of a difference? I'm scared to lose the ring especially since the center diamond was taken from my late mother's ring. We're planning to go back to the jeweler this week...but I really don't want to be without my ring for another week!!

7/24/2018 11:34:41 am

Hi there! I would be surprised if a 6 falls off but a 5.5 it too tight. Is a 5.5 too tight going over the knuckle or too tight when it's down on your finger? That's the question. I think you may want to talk to your jeweler about adding "sizing beads" - they allow a ring to go over the knuckle, but keep it from spinning and moving once it's on. I hope this helps!

7/24/2018 12:21:58 pm

Hello!
I ended up sizing it down to a 5.5 and it now fits SO much better. I've decided I would rather it be a bit more snug when my hands swell than risk it falling off again. Jeweler was nice enough to do a rush job on it so I didn't have to be without it for too long :)

Jen

8/23/2018 08:52:32 am

Hi!
My boyfriend and I recently picked out and ordered my engagement ring. A size 5 is what I thought I would be since that's what fits me comfortably. I tried on a 4 1/2 at the jeweler's suggestion and it was WAY too tight. I had to work really hard to get it over my knuckle to take off. Even though the 5 fit fine, I was told to order a 4 3/4 (there was no sizer in this size). I went with it but now and really worried that it will be too tight. How much of a difference does the 1/4 really make? I'm not sure if I should call to make the change or wait to see if it's okay. It should be ready and a few weeks so I'm not sure if it's too late anyway. Thanks :)

8/23/2018 09:04:30 am

Hi Jen!

A 1/4 size can actually make a difference. When you're on the smaller side, it's an issue of getting the ring over your bone and so having just a little extra room can make all the difference. That said, when you wear two rings on your finger, they will both fit about 1/4-1/2 size tighter once over the knuckle. Therefore, it's possible that a 5 could be slighly loose in the beginning but with the additional wedding band down the line, the 5 might be perfect. Here's what I would do: contact your jeweler and confirm that the ring can be resized up or down and ask what their policy is. Ask if they can make the ring a "tight 5" - this is essentially a 4 7/8. It is possible to create this size, however some - usually larger - jewelers say they can't. Worth checking. I will also say that since you've been professionally sized, likely using the big key ring, I would trust that the 5 might be a bit big. So all in all it is a toss up. BUT DO NOT let this stress you out. You might just have to make a little adjustment one way or the other and that's totally normal for the vast majority of folks out there. In conclusion, I think the 4.75 will fit fine. If you are worried, see about a 4 7/8. No matter what, ask your jeweler what their policy is and how safe it is to resize the particular ring you selected, and most importantly: don't trip, potato chip! It'll all work out.

Erica

9/7/2018 11:17:21 am

Hello! Thank you for this wonderful post! I’m having some serious trouble (anxiety) with my ring size. Originally my fiancé bought a 7 which was huge and I had it resized to a 6 1/4. It’s still a little big but I waited to see what difference the wedding band wold make. I’ve been to 4 jewelers and none of them have a 1/4 size ring sizer thing. I can get a 5 1/2 on but it gave me a little muffin top and I felt like if I left it on for more than a minute it might have to be surgically removed. A 6 slid right on and off. I bought a set of little blue plastic sizers and wore the 6 for 3 straight days. Sometimes it felt good and sometimes it felt tight. I had my wedding band made a loose 6. I got it yesterday and even with both rings on they still feel too big. I wore them inside in the ac and went for a run in hot humid South Carolina. After the run they were a little tighter but still came right off with minimal effort. There is no discernible difference between the two. Since I can tell no difference between 6 1/4 and 6 1/8 I feel like I won’t be able to tell between 6 1/8 and 6 either. I’m now thinking a 5 3/4 might be the best but I’m afraid It will be too small and I’ll ruin my rings with the repeated resizing. Any advice for me? Thanks!

9/9/2018 09:27:57 pm

Hi Erica! I hear you on the issue of not being able to try on 1/4 sizers - I've never seen a 1/4 sizing key in all my years. I don't think they exist! It sounds like 5 3/4 or 5 7/8 might be the way to go. You're right that 1/8 size is basically impossible to notice, a 1/4 a little more so. Do both of your rings have diamond accents? If so, I agree that resizing multiple times is scary. If the wedding band hasn't been resized yet then I might start there.

The one concern I have is that you say:
I bought a set of little blue plastic sizers and wore the 6 for 3 straight days. Sometimes it felt good and sometimes it felt tight.

When it felt tight, did it feel too tight? This makes me think that with two rings at either a 6 or tight six aka 5 7/8 - you might be solid.

It really comes down to what type of rings you have. Feel free to send me a pic at danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

with care,
Danielle

Renard Salvado

9/11/2018 06:05:28 pm

My girlfriend currently is wearing a size 4.5 ring with a width of 2mm.

Im planning on getting her a 4mm ring as a surprise. Do i need to size the ring up? or is it safe to stick with 4.5

9/11/2018 10:15:55 pm

Hi Renard!

Two questions:

what finger does she wear a 2mm size 4.5 on?

is this ring going to be worn on the same finger?

9/12/2018 12:28:23 am

Hi!

She wears the 2mm ring on her left ring finger.
The new ring is meant to be replacing the old one, they wont be worn at the same time.

Thanks for the reply!

9/12/2018 08:31:14 am

Gotcha! Conventional wisdom says that you would want to size up either 1/4 or a 1/2 size. I lean toward a 1/2 increase but this really depends on how the 2mm ring is currently fitting (loose or tight-ish), the shape of her fingers/knuckles. It's important to also confirm whether or not the new ring you are getting can be resized... I hope this helps!

9/12/2018 08:45:20 am

The 2mm ring fits comfortably on her.

Its tight enough that its not falling off, and its loose enough to twist the ring. She often twisted the ring backwards, to protect the detailing on it. Shes never complained about the 2mm ring. She said it fit just right

The ring is made of titanium. Im a little scared to get the wrong one.

9/12/2018 05:41:58 pm

Ah, titanium. Well, in that case you might want to consider a slight size increase because you really can't easily resize it ever and if you plan on her wearing it forever then keep in mind that as we grow old we don't get any smaller... you could check to see if the ring is exchangeable for another size in the event that it's not the perfect fit and if so I would go with a slight size up.

One more question - do her fingers taper or does she have a pronounced knuckle? You can send images to danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com if you want my opinion. This will affect your decision on size for sure.

Aga

9/14/2018 07:47:32 am

I have a 5mm wedding band in size 7. The e-ring I like is 2mm. Here’s the catch: because its band is thinner a 6.5 size fits ok on top of the size 7 band. The jeweler suggested going with a 6.75.....but I can’t stop thinking about going with a size 7, based on what you explained that 5mm plus 2mm will be a 7mm in total and therefore tighter fit. What do you think I should do?

Michelle Bar-Navon link

10/22/2018 12:58:03 pm

Would this ring be able to be resized to a 4?

https://www.etsy.com/listing/579372021/vintage-emerald-cut-yellow-canary-cubic?campaign_label=convo_notifications&utm_source=transactional&utm_campaign=convo_notifications_010170_10683759063_0_0&utm_medium=email&utm_content=&email_sent=1540235239&euid=JEivQ1IkQeE3dpQJafrZsBEJfNa4&eaid=1481264327&x_eaid=abafd8d7a5

10/22/2018 01:26:30 pm

Hi Michelle! I think it’s too big of a jump! But you might ask the seller. Hope this helps!

10/31/2018 01:05:19 pm

Hi!
I recently got engaged (size 5.75) which is very loose on me and can slip over my knuckle with ease during cold weather. Fits fairly well, but spins during warm weather. Our jeweler sized my finger (size 5) and suggested sizing down to a "big 5" with balls. I feared this might be too small, esp during warm weather but trusted his opinion. I got it back and it is indeed very tight now during cool weather so i am afraid it certainly will never fit when it's hot. Would removing the balls solve this or do i need to have it sized up to 5.5? Is that even possible now that i've sized it down. (the band is 18k gold and very thin). Thank you!!

10/31/2018 01:43:19 pm

Hi Ashley! I would start by removing the balls and see how it feels. If there are pave diamond accents, I would hold of resizing till you know how it feels in warm weather and also how it feels next to a wedding band. Increased width will make it fit tighter as well. Hope this helps!

Shanalee

10/31/2018 09:27:41 pm

Hi. I'm living in Japan and recently got engaged. I miscalculated my size because of the stupid Amazon charts so I got a US size 9(it was swimming on my finger) I emailed our jeweler and was advice to get my Japanese size then convert it and send it back to them to get an exchange. I did just that and was a bit unsure between a Japanese size 9 (5 US) and a Japanese size 10 (5 3/8 US) I had to wait a whole month since it's being shipped, now I have the 5 3/8 and it fits tight enough to not fall off even with a very hard shake but it's spinning too much and I hate a crooked ring. I'm thinking to get it sized down to 5.5US which is a Japanese 9.5. I don't want to ship it back to my jeweler because it will take too long to commute to US and back. I also sent a video to your email.

10/31/2018 09:38:32 pm

Can you give me some info on simulated diamonds in terms of how long it will last and whether or not I can wear it like I'd wear any other ring. Can I shower and be rest assured it will not damage my ring? The simulated diamonds is cubic zorconia( not sure I spelt it right) Thanks in advance for your response.

Carmenita

11/20/2018 09:19:02 am

Hi Little Bird

Thank you for the informative post, it's the only one I've read that is really helpful. I'm very worried, my boyfriend proposed yesterday but the ring is way too small, I have chubby fingers you see. I'm in South Africa and the ring needs to be enlarged from a size N to a U, I've checked conversion tables and apparently this is a 7 to 10 1/4 size up. The ring has a twist design with little diamonds on the side until the middle of the band. Do you think this can be done. The jeweller took the ring without any hesitation and said it could be done. Please help

11/20/2018 05:41:43 pm

Congrats, Carmenita! My advice is to ask the jeweler how they will resize it - are they remaking it? Some jewelers will do so when it makes most sense and if there is a written resize policy. You will also want to confirm if they will warranty against manufacturing defects. Sounds like they feel it's possible! You should just ask a few more questions so that you feel confident, too! Hope this helps.

Mike Zint link

11/20/2018 08:37:23 pm

Danielle,
I've looked at this ring in the store and the jewelers say it can be sized to a 5, but the website says 6,7,or 8 available. Which is correct?
Thanks,
Mike

11/20/2018 08:57:17 pm

Hi Mike!

Sounds like they will either make it in a 5 or resize the 6 to a 5. This is something you can totally ask them, just so you are clear! Hope this helps :)

Samantha Barbour

12/21/2018 09:40:48 pm

My boyfriend got my a promise ring for Christmas and I told him that my size was a 13 according to my class ring and every jewelry store he went to told him that there was no size 13. So they recommend him to get the biggest size and size up. Would it be impossible for them to resize it from a 9 to 13?

12/25/2018 11:38:40 pm

Congratulations, Samantha! Truly the best thing you can do is to visit a jeweler to be professionally sized for the finger you plan to wear this promise ring on before you select a ring. Is that possible? Hope this is helpful!

Pat

12/30/2018 12:55:05 pm

This article was super helpful... I am in the process of trying to stealthily determine my girlfriend's ring size. Sadly, all I've got is one of those plastic ring sizes, and my wit. There are 2 rings that she sometimes interchangeably where on her left middle finger. Based on the sizer, I think these are a 7. I also think they are a loose fit. I am pretty certain her ring finger is smaller but I have no idea by how much. It sounds like you're a whizz with guessing... if I send you a photo could you help me out?

12/30/2018 01:29:45 pm

Happy to help! Email me her height and shoe size in addition to a few images at danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

Chau

2/11/2019 07:45:37 pm

Hi little bird,

I've been sized by many jewelers and my size is always a 5. However, my fiance order me an infinity band, ~1.5mm and the band sometimes fits and other times it just simply slips off my finger when I go to take it off. I'm getting my engagement ring from Tacori and have order a 4.75 plus band. I'm bouncing between the 4.75 and 4.75plus. I can fit a 4.5/4.75 overly knuckles, its the fat below that's the bigger issue. When I saw the gemologist recently I could barely get the 5 ring tester off. I'm just a bit hesitant because the 5 can get a quite lose. I'm also not sure how big of a difference there is between a 4.75 and a 4.75plus. What would you suggest?

2/12/2019 06:34:32 pm

Hi there! It all comes down to whether or not your engagement ring will be resizable. You’re free to send me an email directly Danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

Teyah

2/14/2019 01:32:53 pm

Hey! So I just got my finger measured at the jewelry store. I was a bit nervous so when the lady told me I had a 8 - ring size I took it and ran lol. That being said, I don’t actually know what that means, so what is a 8 - (minus) ring size?

2/14/2019 03:45:55 pm

Hi Teyah! That is a 7 7/8 :)

Ayo

2/17/2019 06:47:52 am

Hi,

I've just emailed you a picture of my girlfriend where she's got her hands out. Can you please assist with reviewing and estimating her ring size.

I'm far away from her at the moment and have no other way to figure it out. Looking forward to your swift feedback.

Regards,
Ayo.

2/17/2019 08:50:35 am

Hi Ayo! I have your email and will review in the next 24 hours :)

3/20/2019 09:59:31 am

Hi!

I have a 2mm platinum "comfort fit" wedding band that is sized to a 4.5 that fits comfortably over my knuckle, but is still a little loose, a problem with my finger being way smaller than my knuckle. I recently purchased a diamond engagement ring from an online jeweler that is a simple solitaire platinum 2mm band in a size 4.75. I sized up thinking that since it wasn't a "comfort fit" band I would need it a little larger. However, this ring fits way larger than than the 4.5 wedding band, almost like a 5+. It is very loose and dangles toward my knuckle freely. The retailer only has a 30 day resizing policy, so I'm not sure if my finger will swell in the summer or not. My concern is if I should have it resized now to a 4.5 or wait until the summer and see if my finger swells? Or should I go even smaller?
I'm fine with it spinning, but just not so loose that it feels like will fall off.
Any advice would be great!

3/20/2019 10:15:44 am

Hi Michelle,

If the ring is truly a solitaire then you might just wait and have it sized locally once you know how it will fit. On the other hand, it does sounds like it's quite large and perhaps a 1/4 size down should do the trick! I wish I could be more helpful but without seeing you in person, it's difficult to say. Again, if there are no diamond accents then you can feel free to size it now and again in the future without an issue. Hope this helps!

Camille

4/24/2019 03:35:07 pm

Hi there!

I've been wearing my mom's size 5 rings and while they fit me well, I notice that when you push the ring up from the base, there's barely any space between the ring and the finger. It also feels tight to the point of the ring making indents on my finger whether my hands swell. So the 5 mostly feels a bit or a lot claustrophobic depending on the temperature.

Now we're having a bridal set made for our wedding this July: solitaire engagement ring and pave wedding band, both 1.7mm width. I would like to ask for your advice: do we go for 5.25 or 5.5 for both, considering they will always be stacked?

Thank you!

4/26/2019 05:11:06 pm

Hi Camille! Happy to help if I can. It's worth considering that the total width on your finger will be 3.5mm. If you wear your Mom's ring on the same finger you plan to wear this set on, then I would figure out the width of that ring. If it is in the 1.5-2mm range, then you may want to go with the 5.5 for the wider set. I hope this helps!

5/1/2019 03:02:42 pm

This is very helpful and comforting, thank you so much! I was thinking the same but I was afraid of 5.5 being too loose. >_< I've been getting all sorts of feedback saying different things, but most of them didn't consider the stacking of the rings. Thank you!

5/4/2019 09:20:15 am

I hope it all works out perfectly, Camillle!

Opal

5/3/2019 02:14:25 pm

Hello!

My boyfriend—well, fiancé now!—proposed to me recently and the ring he got was too big for me, which came as no shocker! My fingers, while long, are notoriously thin. We went back to the store today, and he got a great warranty so reordering and resizing is no big deal. My only worry is that the smallest they could reorder in was a 5, and we'll need to get it resized down to a 3.5. It's not a special tension ring or an eternity band, but there are lots of small diamonds on the top. Will such a large resizing affect the ring's hold on its gemstones?

5/4/2019 09:21:49 am

Hi Opal! Congrats on your big news!

A 1.5 size jump down in that size range is a big deal esp if there are diamond accents on the band. I would ask how they will handle resizing the ring and if they will cover it with a warranty. Hope this helps!

6/3/2019 11:37:03 pm

Hi there!

I got my ring size measured in three Jewellery stores, and 2 stores sized me as a 5.5 while another sized me as a 6 (sizing being not tight but still not easily going past the knuckle). All three were sized in succession during the late afternoon. My engagement and wedding rings will be 1.7mm each and will be often stacked unless I'm commuting or traveling, for safety purposes. Would you recommend I get a 5.5 set or a 5.75? I'm scared of getting the size wrong because it's a custom piece.

Thank you so much for your feedback!

6/4/2019 08:16:39 am

Camille, Congratulations!

This is a really tough one to make a call on - 1/4 sizes are tricky! My first thought is that you say wedding bands, does this mean there are multiple? Let's do this: send me images of the rings (or similar) that you are getting as well as how many of each and I think I can help you with a strategy. danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

6/10/2019 10:22:41 pm

Thank you so much! Already sent you the email last June 7, I hope you were able to get it. :) Have a great day!

The Antique Ring Shop link

6/28/2019 05:33:00 am

Because we sell antique & vintage engagement rings and the sizes differ so so much, we usually advice to have it done after popping the question! People do bring their partners rings as examples, but when we ask on which finger they wear it... they generally don't know :)

6/28/2019 07:28:20 am

I agree! Best not to take a shot in the dark on sizing when it comes to antiques!

Brooke

8/26/2019 07:44:20 pm

Hi! My fiancé bought my engagement ring and it was entirely too big so we had a new one made in the size I’ve always thought was my ring size but unfortunately it is too big. It fits my right (dominant) hand perfect but slides up and down with ease on my left. I was wondering if I should resize down to a 4 it’s a (4.25) or hold off and use ring adjusters until the wedding since the band can make it tighter.

9/8/2019 08:45:16 am

Hi,

Thank you for this article. I know this has been an old post and was wondering if it is possible to determine ring size from photos. I had confirmed size 6 is slightly loose, and debating between 4.5 and 5.5. Any help would be appreciated -- thank you!

9/8/2019 10:31:25 pm

Yes! Email me the following answers to danielle@littlebirdtoldyou.com

1. What is your partner's approximate height and shoe size?

2. Do you have a couple pictures I can check out where I can see her hands and her stature?

3. Right or left handed?

4. Do you have an image of the general ring style you are considering? Doesn't have to be the exact one. Just so we can get an idea of the shape and width of the ring you are envisioning for your partner. No worries if you don't know yet ;)

I will take a look at your answers and provide you a little sizing breakdown!

with care,
Danielle

Rhys

11/5/2019 10:54:35 pm

Hi I’m trying to surprise my girlfriend with a proposal is there a way you could estimate her ring size based off a photo of her with me. I know my ring size for comparing hers to mine. My ring finger is a 10 and I’m decently sure my pinkie is a 6.5

11/6/2019 07:43:09 am

Hi Rhys! I saw your email so I'll respond back there ;)