How to Measure Ring Size: 6 Methods + Online Calculator
Measure an existing ring, your finger, or use a professional ring sizer. The calculator converts your result directly to EU, US, and UK sizes.
In a nutshell
The most accurate way to measure is with a ring that fits well on the correct finger: multiply the inner diameter in millimetres by 3.14 to get an approximate EU ring size. If you don't have a ring that fits, a strip of paper or a professional ring sizer will do. Our ring size calculator converts the measurement directly to EU, US, and UK sizes.
Interactive Tool
Ring Size Calculator
Enter your measurement and instantly get your ring size in all standard sizing systems.
Not sure which size to choose? Order the Velur Ring Size Set and try on the graduated sizing rings at your leisure at home.
Prefer to measure offline? Download our ring template as a PDF:
Download the ring template (PDF)Not sure about the size?
Send us a message on WhatsApp—we'll help you find the right size for free.
WhatsApp ConsultationPart 1
3 Open Measurement Methods
These methods are useful if you want to determine your own ring size or if the surprise isn't a secret.
Measure an existing ring
This method is very accurate if the ring fits well on the correct finger. You'll need a ruler; using a caliper will allow you to measure the inner edge even more precisely.
- Choose a ring that fits well on your ring finger.
- Place it flat on a ruler or graph paper.
- Measure the inner diameter in millimetres (from inner edge to inner edge).
- Enter the value above into our calculator or multiply it by 3.14. The EU size refers to the inner circumference in millimeters; the measurement is described in ISO 8653:2016.
Paper Strip Method
The easiest method if you don't have a ring that fits on hand. All you need is a strip of paper, a pen, and a ruler.
- Cut a narrow strip of paper, about 5 millimetres wide and 10 centimeters long.
- Place it where the ring will eventually sit. If the knuckle is noticeably thicker, take an additional measurement there.
- Mark the spot where the paper overlaps.
- Measure the length in millimetres—that is the circumference of your finger and also your ring size (EU).
Take the measurement at normal room temperature and at various times of the day. The strip should fit snugly but not cut into the skin. Repeat the measurement over two to three days and compare the readings.
Use a ring sizer
A professional ring sizer consists of metal rings of varying sizes that you try on one after another. This way, you’re not just checking a number—you’re also seeing how the ring slides over your knuckle and fits on your finger.
- Order the Velur Ring Sizer Set.
- Try the rings on the ring finger of your left hand.
- The ring should slide easily over the knuckle, but not be too loose.
- Read the ring size directly from the measuring ring.
Part 2
3 Secret Methods
Are you planning a surprise proposal? These tips will help you figure out your partner's ring size without her noticing.
Borrow a ring from the jewellery box
The most reliable secret method. If your partner owns any rings, borrow one that she wears on her ring finger. Measure the inner diameter with a ruler and enter the measurement into our calculator.
Important: Pay attention to which finger and which hand she wears the ring on. Even the two ring fingers can differ in size; you can't reliably determine a general half size based on that alone.
Trace the ring onto paper
If you can't take the ring with you: Place it on a sheet of paper and trace the inner edge with a sharp pencil. Then measure the diameter of the circle and multiply it by 3.14.
Alternatively: Press the ring briefly into a piece of modeling clay or soap, and measure the impression later when you have time.
Ask friends or family
Your best friend, your mom, or your sister often know more than you think. Sometimes they know your ring size right away—or can discreetly ask during your next shopping trip together.
Tip: Ask your confidant to go with your partner to a jewellery store to try on rings “just for fun.” That way, you’ll find out the exact size without raising any suspicion.
No worries about size
For most Velur engagement and wedding rings made of solid gold, free resizing is available within 180 days of delivery. Typically, the ring can be resized by one to two sizes; the exact range depends on the model. Learn more about resizing
Overview
A Comparison of All 6 Methods
| Method | Accuracy | Secretly? | You'll need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Measure the ring | 9/10 | No | Matching Ring + Ruler |
| strips of paper | 7/10 | No | Paper + Pencil + Ruler |
| Ring Sizer | 10/10 | No | Order a Free Sample Set |
| Borrow a ring | 9/10 | Yes | Ring from a jewellery box |
| Trace the ring | 7/10 | Yes | Paper + Pencil |
| Ask friends | 6/10 | Yes | Confidential Advisor |
Reference
Ring Size Chart
German ring sizes correspond to the inner circumference in millimetres. Here you'll find the conversion to US and UK sizes.
| Diameter (mm) | EU / DE | US | UK |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15.3 | 48 | 4.5 | I |
| 15.6 | 49 | 5 | J |
| 15.9 | 50 | 5.5 | K |
| 16.2 | 51 | 5.75 | L |
| 16.5 | 52 | 6 | L½ |
| 16.8 | 53 | 6.5 | M½ |
| 17.2 | 54 | 7 | N |
| 17.5 | 55 | 7.5 | O |
| 17.8 | 56 | 7.75 | P |
| 18.1 | 57 | 8 | Q |
| 18.5 | 58 | 8.5 | Q½ |
| 18.8 | 59 | 8.75 | R |
| 19.1 | 60 | 9 | S |
| 19.4 | 61 | 9.5 | S½ |
| 19.7 | 62 | 10 | T½ |
| 20.0 | 63 | 10.25 | U |
| 20.4 | 64 | 10.75 | V |
| 20.7 | 65 | 11 | W |
Good to Know
What factors influence your ring size?
Your ring size isn't a fixed number—it changes depending on the situation. Here are some factors you should be aware of:
Time of day
Fingers can swell throughout the day. So don't just measure once; compare measurements taken at different times of the day.
Temperature
When it's cold, your fingers contract; when it's warm, they swell. Room temperature provides the most reliable result.
Ring width
Wider bands usually fit more snugly than narrow ones. Therefore, for bands that are about 6 millimetres wide or wider, the size should be checked using a ring sizer of a similar width.
Physical Changes
Pregnancy, weight changes, or exercise can affect your ring size. That's why most Velur solid gold engagement rings come with a free resizing service within 180 days of delivery.
Important to Know
Pro Tips for Accurate Results
When and how should you measure?
The thickness of your fingers varies throughout the day. They’re thinner in the morning and when it’s cold, and thicker in the evening and when it’s warm. So measure them several times at different times of the day and calculate the average. Ideally, take 2–3 measurements on different days.
When in doubt, go bigger
If you're between two sizes, choose the larger one and ask for advice before placing your order. Whether and to what extent a ring can be resized later depends on the setting, the band, and the style.
Left or right hand?
In Germany, the engagement ring is traditionally worn on the left ring finger. Be sure to measure the hand on which the ring will eventually be worn: the left and right hands may be different sizes.
"The right ring size slides gently over your knuckle and then fits comfortably—without constantly slipping."
— Velur Jewellery Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ on Ring Sizes
Is there a standard ring size for women?
No. A one-size-fits-all standard size is too imprecise for an engagement ring. Measure the ring from the correct finger, use a ring sizer, or ask for advice based on a photo and any rings you have on hand for comparison.
How can I secretly find out my girlfriend's ring size?
The most reliable discreet method is to borrow a ring from her jewellery box and measure its inner diameter. Alternatively, you can ask her best friend or mother for help. Read our 3 discreet methods for detailed instructions.
What is the difference between ring size and diameter?
The German ring size corresponds to the inner circumference of the ring in millimetres. The diameter is the distance across the ring (from inner edge to inner edge). Conversion: Diameter × 3.14 = ring size. Example: 16.5 mm diameter × 3.14 = ring size 52.
Can I have the ring size adjusted later?
For most Velur engagement and wedding rings made of solid gold, free resizing is available within 180 days of delivery. Typically, the ring can be resized by one to two sizes; the exact range depends on the model. Learn more about resizing.
How do I convert a U.S. ring size to an EU size?
Use our ring size calculator at the top of the page—select the “Convert Size” tab and enter your US size. Or check our ring size chart. Example: US 6 = EU 52.
If I'm not sure, should I order a larger or smaller size?
If you're right between two sizes, go with the larger one and ask for advice beforehand. A ring should slide over your knuckle, but it shouldn't slip down permanently once it's on.
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