Adjusting Your Wedding Ring: Tips For A Perfect Fit

Wedding rings are often a source of stress for many people, and it can be challenging to find the perfect fit. The best way to ensure a ring fits is to visit a jeweller and get professionally measured. However, there are also ways to measure your ring size at home. Your ring should be snug but not tight, comfortable but not loose. A ring that fits perfectly will slide smoothly onto your finger and over your knuckles without having to be forced. It should fit snugly at the bottom of your finger without feeling tight or causing an indent. Your fingers change size throughout the day and the year, so it's important to measure at different times to ensure a consistent fit. Wider rings will make your finger feel tighter, so consider sizing up for a wider band.

Measure your ring size at home with a measuring tape or a piece of string

To measure your ring size at home with a measuring tape or a piece of string, follow these steps:

Using a Measuring Tape

• Choose a flexible cloth measuring tape for an accurate measurement.
• Wrap the tape around the base of the exact finger that will wear the ring. Make sure it's close to the knuckle so that the ring will be able to slide over it comfortably.
• Note the point on the finger where the end of the measuring tape overlaps.
• Record the measurement in millimetres to get the circumference of your finger.
• To find the diameter of your finger, divide the circumference by 3.14 (or pi).
• Compare your measurements to a ring sizing chart to find your ring size.

Using a Piece of String

• Cut a thin piece of string about 6 inches (15 cm) long.
• Wrap the string around the base of the chosen finger, ensuring it's tight enough not to slip over your knuckle but loose enough to be comfortable.
• Mark the point on the string where it overlaps with the end.
• Unwrap the string and stretch it along a ruler or measuring tape.
• Note the length from one end of the string to the mark to get the circumference.
• To get the diameter, divide the length of the string by 3.14 (or pi).
• Compare the measurements to a ring sizing chart to find your ring size.

If your ring size falls between two sizes, it's recommended to go with the larger size. Your ring should fit snugly but comfortably, and it should be easy to slide over your knuckle without being too loose.

Visit a jeweller to get your ring size professionally measured

Visiting a jeweller to get your ring size professionally measured is the best way to ensure your wedding ring fits perfectly. While there are methods to measure your ring size at home, a professional jeweller will have all the necessary equipment to accurately measure your ring size. They can also advise on the best fit for your finger shape and size.

When you visit a jeweller, they will typically use a measuring tape to take the measurement of your ring finger in millimetres. They will then be able to match this measurement to the closest size on their ring size chart. This method ensures an accurate measurement and reduces the chances of needing to have your ring resized in the future.

A professional jeweller will also be able to take into account any unique characteristics of your fingers, such as the shape and size. For example, if you have a big knuckle and a skinny finger, they may recommend a ring that takes a bit of force to get over the knuckle, ensuring a secure fit at the base of your finger. On the other hand, if you have a small knuckle and a larger finger, they may suggest a firmer fit around the base of your finger to prevent the ring from feeling too loose.

Additionally, a jeweller can advise on the width of the ring band and how this may impact the overall fit. Wider rings tend to make your finger feel tighter, so they may suggest going up half a size for a wider band. They can also guide you on ring stacks, which can affect the fit in a similar way to wider bands.

By consulting a professional jeweller, you can benefit from their expertise and ensure that your wedding ring fits comfortably and securely. They can provide personalised advice and ensure that your ring is a perfect fit, taking into account all the factors that can impact the overall fit and feel of the ring.

Consider the band width: thicker rings may feel tighter than thinner ones

When it comes to wedding rings, there are a few things to consider beyond just finding the correct ring size. The width of the band can impact the overall look and feel of the ring, so it's worth trying on a few different widths to see what works for you.

Thicker rings may feel tighter than thinner ones, even if they are the same size. This is because wider rings take up more space on the finger, which naturally makes them feel snugger. If you're considering a wide ring, you may want to size up to ensure it doesn't feel too tight.

The width of the ring band should be proportionate to the size of your finger. Wider bands tend to suit larger fingers, while narrower bands are more suitable for smaller fingers. The width of the band can also impact the comfort of the ring, especially if you plan to wear it every day. Narrower bands are generally more comfortable for daily wear, while wider bands may be more suitable for special occasions or infrequent wear.

There are no rules when it comes to ring width, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, certain widths are traditionally considered more appropriate for men or women. Ring widths of 6mm and smaller are typically considered women's rings, while widths of 8mm and greater are considered men's rings. That being said, these traditions are not set in stone, and people of all genders can choose a ring width that feels comfortable and looks good on their finger.

Factor in routine bodily changes: temperature, blood circulation, diet, etc

Our bodies are in a constant state of flux, and there are many everyday factors that can cause our ring size to change. Here are some routine bodily changes to be aware of when it comes to your wedding ring size:

Temperature

The temperature of your body and your environment can affect your ring size. For instance, our fingers tend to be larger at night than in the morning, and they can shrink by up to half a size when we're cold. Therefore, it's important to ensure you're taking your ring size measurements at the right temperature.

Blood Circulation

Blood circulation can also impact your ring size. Certain activities, such as sleeping, drinking alcohol, or flying, can cause a build-up of fluid in the fingers, resulting in temporary swelling. On the other hand, if your ring is too tight, it can restrict blood flow and cause a tingling sensation in your fingers. In this case, remove your ring immediately, as this is your body's way of telling you something isn't right.

Diet

Changes in your diet or weight can also impact your ring size. For instance, consuming alcohol or salty foods can lead to temporary water retention, making your fingers feel tighter. On the other hand, if you're dieting or losing weight, your fingers may shrink. While this is generally not a cause for concern, it's important to monitor your ring size. If your ring starts to feel loose, consider adjusting it or consulting a jeweller about resizing.

Other Factors

Other everyday activities, such as running or exercising, can cause your fingers to swell temporarily. Additionally, stress can cause water retention, making your ring feel tighter. So, if you're feeling stressed or anxious, be mindful of how your ring fits and make adjustments as necessary.

Keep your knuckles in mind: the ring should slide over your knuckle without obstruction

When it comes to wedding rings, one size doesn't fit all—and that's okay! Fingers come in all shapes and sizes, and so do knuckles. If you have larger knuckles, you may need to put some extra thought into choosing a ring that fits properly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Firstly, understand that your ring should be able to slide over your knuckle without any obstruction. This is crucial for comfort and to prevent injury. A ring that's too tight can cause discomfort and even restrict circulation over time. To find the right size, consider visiting a jeweller and getting your knuckle measured. They can help you choose a ring that will fit comfortably over your knuckle without feeling too loose on the rest of your finger.

Secondly, consider the shape of your ring. A ring with a rounded profile, also known as a court shape, will glide over your knuckle more easily than a ring with a flat interior surface. Look for rings with a comfort fit, which are designed to be easier to put on and take off. You may also want to opt for a thin shank—a shank with a size of 3mm or less. These rings will be more comfortable and easier to manoeuvre over your knuckle.

Thirdly, don't be afraid to explore alternative options. Hinged rings, for example, are an innovative solution for those with large knuckles. These rings open up and pass easily through the knuckle, then snap securely around the finger. You can also look into adjustable rings, which are split at the back and can be sized to fit your finger flawlessly. Just be mindful that resizing a ring too often can cause damage over time.

Finally, remember that your body is dynamic, and so are your fingers. Your finger shape will change throughout the day and over time due to factors like blood circulation, temperature changes, and what you eat and drink. For example, your fingers may swell in the summer and shrink in the winter, affecting how your ring fits. Keep this in mind when choosing your ring size, and opt for something that will accommodate these natural fluctuations as best as possible.

Frequently asked questions