How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home

The most accurate way to measure ring size at home is to measure the inside diameter of a ring that already fits the same finger. If you have no ring, wrap a thin strip of paper around the finger, mark where it meets, and measure the length in millimetres. Then convert either number with our ring size guide, and send it with your chosen stone, such as Aqeeq or Feroza.

What you need

• A ruler or measuring tape marked in millimetres. A school ruler works.
• A strip of paper about 5 mm wide and 10 cm long, or a piece of non-stretchy thread.
• A pen with a fine tip.
• A ring that already fits, if you have one.

Millimetres matter. Ring sizes step up by fractions of a millimetre, so an estimate in centimetres or inches is too rough. Once you have a measurement, our ring size guide converts it into the sizes jewellers use. We will not repeat the full chart here.

Method 1: measure a ring that already fits

This is the most reliable home method, because the ring has already been tested on your finger.

1. Choose a ring worn on the same finger and the same hand you plan to wear the new one on.
2. Place it flat on a ruler.
3. Measure the inside diameter: the distance straight across the inside of the band, from inner edge to inner edge, through the centre. Do not include the metal.
4. Measure twice, once across and once at a right angle, in case the ring has been bent slightly out of round. Use the larger figure.

If the ring fits but feels slightly tight or loose, note that too and tell us. A ring that "just about" fits is often half a size out.

Method 2: paper strip or thread

Use this when you have no ring to copy.

1. Wrap the paper strip around the base of the finger, where the ring will sit.
2. Pull it snug but not tight. It should slide over the knuckle with a little resistance.
3. Mark the point where the paper overlaps.
4. Lay the strip flat and measure from the end to the mark in millimetres. This is the circumference.
5. To get the diameter, divide the circumference by 3.14. For example, a 54 mm strip gives a diameter of about 17.2 mm.

Paper is better than thread because thread stretches and digs into the skin, which makes the reading too small. If you only have thread, wrap it once without pulling, and hold it against the ruler carefully.

Method 3: visit a local jeweller

Most jewellers in Pakistani bazaars keep a set of sizing rings and a ring stick, and many will size your finger quickly if you ask. Write down the number they give you and the system they use, and send it to us. This is the best option before a wedding or for a heavy ring, when getting it exactly right matters most.

Getting an accurate reading

Fingers change size through the day. A few habits make the reading reliable:

• Measure at the end of the day. Fingers are usually smallest in the morning and slightly larger by evening.
• Measure at room temperature. Cold fingers shrink; in the heat of a Lahore or Karachi summer they swell. Avoid measuring straight after a hot shower or exercise.
• Take three readings on different days if you can, and use the average.
• Check the knuckle. If your knuckle is much wider than the base of the finger, choose a size that passes over the knuckle, even if it is a little loose at the base.
• Measure the right hand. Most people's dominant hand is slightly larger. A ring for the right hand should be measured on the right hand.

Why gemstone rings need extra thought

A gemstone ring is not a plain band. Two things affect the fit:

• Band width: a wide band covers more of the finger and feels tighter than a thin one of the same size. For a band wider than about 6 mm, many jewellers suggest going up by half a size.
• A heavy top: a large stone such as a big Aqeeq or Sulemani agate makes the ring top-heavy, so a loose ring spins round the finger. A snug fit keeps the stone facing up.

For small, faceted stones such as Neelam or Pukhraj, the band is usually slimmer and your standard size will be fine.

If you follow a tradition that names a particular finger for your stone, measure that exact finger. Ring and little fingers can differ by two or more sizes.

Understanding ring size systems

Different countries use different scales. Some number sizes with whole and half numbers, some use letters of the alphabet, and some state the inside circumference in millimetres. Many jewellers in Pakistan use their own numbered sizing rings, and the numbers do not always match from one shop to the next. That is why a millimetre measurement is the safest thing to send. A diameter or circumference in millimetres means the same everywhere, and it can be converted to any scale. Our ring size guide shows the conversions side by side.

If a jeweller gives you a size number, ask which system it is, or better still ask them to tell you the inside diameter of the sizing ring that fitted.

Can a gemstone ring be resized later?

Often yes, but not always easily. A plain silver or gold band can usually be made larger or smaller by a jeweller by one or two sizes. A ring with a stone is harder:

• Heat from soldering can damage heat-sensitive stones, so the jeweller may need to remove the stone first. This is especially true for Feroza, opal, pearl and coral.
• Rings with stones set all the way round the band cannot be resized much without disturbing those stones.
• Stretching a ring thins the metal, which weakens it under the stone.

Getting the size right at the start saves trouble later. For a ring with a valuable stone, a sizing from a local jeweller is worth the short trip.

Common mistakes

• Measuring the outside of a ring. Always measure the inside diameter.
• Pulling the strip too tight. The ring then will not pass over the knuckle.
• Using a ring from a different finger. Even the same finger on the other hand can differ.
• Guessing from someone else's size. A husband's or brother's size is a poor guide to your own.
• Rounding down. If you fall between two sizes, choose the larger. A slightly loose ring can be tightened with a sizing bead; a tight one has to be stretched or cut.

Measuring for a surprise gift

Surprise rings are common for engagements, Eid and anniversaries. To find the size without asking:

• Borrow a ring the person wears on the same finger for a few minutes and measure its inside diameter.
• Press the borrowed ring into a bar of soap or a piece of soft clay, then measure the inner circle of the impression.
• Ask a sister, mother or close friend, who may already know the size or can find out quietly.
• If you are unsure, choose a larger size. Resizing down is usually simpler than resizing up.

Our birthstone gift guide for Eid and weddings has ideas for choosing the stone itself.

Sending us your size

Our ring collection is still being prepared, but ring settings can be arranged on WhatsApp. Send us:

• The stone you have chosen, with its listing link.
• Your measurement in millimetres and the method you used.
• Which finger and hand.
• Your preferred metal. Our guide to silver vs gold ring settings can help.

We will confirm the size before anything is made. Stones are delivered by insured, tracked courier anywhere in Pakistan, with Cash on Delivery and 7-day returns; see our delivery details.

Shop the stones: aqeeq · feroza · sapphire · yellow sapphire · sulemani agate · ruby.