How do I choose the right ring size?

Choosing the right ring size is essential to ensure a perfect, comfortable fit. It's like a piece of clothing that needs to be tailored to your measurements. The Size ring size is defined by measuring the circumference of a circle at the point where the ring will be worn. If you need to find the size of your own finger, you have several options. It gets a little more complicated if you need to measure someone else's finger size, especially if you're doing it secretly. Whatever the situation, we'll guide you and find solutions for you. So choosing the right ring size becomes a simple formality.

How to choose the right ring size

There are several simple ways to find out your ring size. We'll come back to this in more detail in the article, but it's possible to measure your finger circumference using a ring gauge, a string, or simply by calculating the circumference or diameter of an exemplary ring. A quick mathematical reminder before continuing: the circumference is the total measurement of the perimeter of a circle, which in this case is the ring. The diameter, on the other hand, is the straight line defining the distance between two opposite points on a circle.


This is where the famous mathematical formula with the number Pi comes in handy. This irrational number, equal to 3.141, is used to calculate the diameter from the circumference and vice versa. To obtain the diameter of a circle, divide the circumference by Pi. Conversely, multiply it by the diameter to obtain the circumference.


In jewelry stores in France and other European countries, the ring size corresponds to the circumference of the finger. In some other parts of Europe, ring size is determined by the diameter of your finger. Here in North America, ring size is calculated on a scale of 1 to 15 with half points. (ring Size 6, ring Size 6.5, etc.) To obtain the size from the circumference or diameter, you absolutely need a conversion table for Canada and the USA. The conversion is not based on a logical calculation. You can consult the conversion table, also known as the size guide, at the bottom of this article.


Usually, a woman'sSize ring size is between 4 and 9. Men's rings are larger, ranging in size from 7 to 12. There is no standard Size and the size of your finger is not related to your Size or your build.


Graph explaining the circumference of a circle

Circumference

Graph explaining the diameter of a circle

Diameter

Why ring size matters

The importance of ring size should not be overlooked for several good reasons:

  1. Comfort: A ring that's too tight can cause discomfort and even circulation problems, while one that's too loose can fall off.
  2. Aesthetics: A well-fitted ring will enhance your finger and complement your overall appearance.
  3. Emotional: Rings are often given on special occasions such as engagements, weddings and anniversaries. An ill-fitting ring can reduce the emotional impact of the gesture.
  4. Daily activities: A bad ring size can be particularly annoying during your daily activities, such as writing, typing on a keyboard, or any other task requiring the use of your hands.

Risks associated with an ill-fitting ring

An ill-fitting ring carries its own set of risks, including the following:

  1. Skin health: An ill-fitting ring can cause skin irritation, especially if it's made of a material you're allergic to.
  2. Safety: If the ring is too loose, there's a risk of losing it or damaging it by dropping it.
  3. Wear and durability: A ring that's too tight or too loose will suffer uneven wear, which can reduce longevity.
  4. Transformation cost: Although some rings can be resized, it can be costly and sometimes risky to modify the ring's structure, especially if it has stones inlaid all around.

How to measure the size of your ring

There are many ways to measure the circumference of your finger to determine your ring size. Here are a few commonly used methods for measuring your finger for a ring.

String method

  1. Cut a small piece of string.
  2. Wrap it around the base of the finger where you wear your ring.
  3. Mark where the wire crosses
  4. Measure this length with a ruler.
  5. This length is used to calculate the circumference.
  6. Consult the size guide to obtain the finger measurement for the ring.

Exemplary ring method

  1. Choose a ring that suits you or the person you want to give a ring to.
  2. Place the ring on a ruler and measure the inside diameter in millimeters.
  3. Make sure this measurement is taken where the ring is widest.
  4. See our size guide.

Baguier method

  1. Order a free baguier here.
  2. Wrap the plastic strip around the finger in the right place.
  3. Follow the instructions on the envelope.
  4. Watch this instructional video to understand how to measure your finger for a ring.

Note: Avoid virtual ring gauges. They are not accurate and their impressions can distort the data.

A woman presents the envelope of a plastic baguier Flamme en rose.

Free plastic wand

One finger points to the measurement taken on a plastic baguier.

Measurement on the plastic baguier

Professional baguier on white background.

Professional baguier

Jeweller's method

  1. Find a jewelry store you can trust.
  2. Get your finger measurement for a ring with the professional ring gauge.
  3. Jewelers are experienced in accurately measuring ring size.

Whatever method you use, it's always a good idea to check with a professional or test with another method to be sure.


Conversion and equivalence of ring sizes

Conversion and equivalence of ring sizes are crucial considerations when looking to buy a ring, whether for yourself or as a gift. Different countries have different systems for measuring ring sizes, making it difficult to choose the correct size.


Converting from European to Canadian sizes is often a concern for buyers and jewelers alike. A Size ring chart can be particularly useful in simplifying this process. This chart offers a complete overview of the equivalences between different sizes, such as the conversion between the Size 11 ring in the Canadian system and its European counterpart.


In the European system, sizes are generally expressed in millimeters, corresponding to the circumference of the finger. Thus, a European ring size of 52 would be approximately equivalent to a Size 6 ring in Canada. Similarly, a European ring size of 54 would correspond to a slightly larger Canadian ring size, often Size 7.


When talking about dimensions in centimeters, conversion can also apply. For example, 6 cm in European ring size would be close to a size 60, which could be approximately a Size 9 ring in Canada. As for 6.5 cm in ring size, this would correspond to a size 65 in the European system and could be equivalent to a Size 11 ring in Canada.


Smaller sizes such as Size 4 or 5 in the Canadian system often correspond to European sizes such as 47 and 49. A Size ring chart, size chart or size guide will be your best ally in navigating these conversions and finding the perfect size, whether European or Canadian.


Ring size conversion chart

The ring size conversion chart is the ultimate tool for accurately reading ring sizes in Canada. To this we add the United States, which in the vast majority of cases uses the same size guide as its neighbors to the north. 


  • Canada and U.S. Sizes

Circumference

Diameter

Size

46.5 mm

14.8 mm

4

48 mm

15.2 mm

4.5

49 mm

15.8 mm

5

50.5 mm

16.1 mm

5.5

51.5 mm

16.4 mm

6

53 mm

16.9 mm

6.5

54.5 mm

17.4 mm

7

55.5 mm

17.7 mm

7.5

57 mm

18.1 mm

8

58 mm

18.5 mm

8.5

59.5 mm

18.9 mm

9

61 mm

19.4 mm

9.5

62 mm

19.7 mm

10

63.5 mm

20.2 mm

10.5

64.5 mm

20.5 mm

11

66 mm

21.0 mm

11.5

67.5 mm

21.5 mm

12

68.5 mm

21.8 mm

12.5

70 mm

22.3 mm

13

71 mm

22.6 mm

13.5

72 mm

22.9 mm

14

73.5 mm

23.4 mm

14.5

74.5 mm

23.7 mm

15

  • Conversion chart - Canada and U.S. sizes

Circumference

Diameter

Size

46.5 mm

14.8 mm

4

48 mm

15.2 mm

4.5 

49 mm

15.6 mm

5

50.5 mm

16.1 mm

5.5

51.5 mm

16.4 mm

6

53 mm

16.9 mm

6.5

54.5 mm

17.4 mm

7

55.5 mm

17.7 mm

7.5

57 mm

18.1 mm

8

58 mm

18.5 mm

8.5

59.5 mm

18.9 mm

9

61 mm

19.4 mm

9.5

62 mm

19.7 mm

10

63.5 mm

20.2 mm

10.5

64.5 mm

20.5 mm

11

66 mm

21.0 mm

11.5

67.5 mm

21.5 mm

12

68.5 mm

21.8 mm

12.5

70 mm

22.3 mm

13

71 mm

22.6 mm

13.5

72 mm

22.9 mm

14

73.5 mm

23.4 mm

14.5

74.5 mm

23.7 mm

15

It's worth noting that several countries around the world use the ISO 8653 standard to define jewelry ring sizes, including France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Scandinavia, the Netherlands and other continental European nations.

How to determine your ideal ring size

We can't stress this enough: determining the ideal size for your ring is essential to guarantee comfort and style. So how do you know which Size ring is right for you? Here are a few tips to guide you through the process.


First of all, it's essential to measure the finger on which the ring will be worn. Finger sizes for rings vary not only from person to person, but also from finger to finger on the same hand. You can use several methods to find the ideal ring size, as described earlier in this article.


Here are a few points to consider when measuring finger sizes for rings.

  1. Finger temperature: The size of your finger may change slightly with temperature. Try to measure your finger when you are at a normal body temperature.
  2. Time of day: It's best to measure your finger at the end of the day, when fingers are generally at their thickest.
  3. Knuckle size: If your knuckle is significantly larger than the base of your finger, measure the knuckle as well and choose a size that will be comfortable for both.

Knowing how to determine the perfect Size ring is a useful skill that every jewelry lover should master. For optimum accuracy, we recommend consulting a professional jeweler to ensure a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing fit.

How to determine your ideal ring size

A comfortable ring fit minimizes the risk of skin irritation and circulation problems that can occur with a too-tight ring. What's more, a comfortable fit ensures that the ring stays in place without slipping, which is particularly important for gem-set rings such as engagement rings.


A comfortable fit also enhances the aesthetic experience of wearing a ring, since it will blend naturally with your hand without attracting attention for the wrong reasons. A comfortable ring fit is essential for the well-being, durability and elegance of your ring.

How to measure finger circumference

Both the string and baguier methods are effective for finding the finger measurement for a ring. Take into consideration the size of your knuckle so that the ring can slide all the way onto your finger. Use the circumference formula explained in the paragraph on how to choose your ring size to obtain the equivalents in the conversion table.


How to measure your finger for a ring also applies to measuring another person's finger. Repeat the same methods explained in the paragraph on how to measure the size of your ring, taking into account the size of the joint and without squeezing the finger too much. It's easier to shrink a ring than to enlarge it.


Using a ring gauge to determine size

Using a ring gauge is one of the safest ways to measure the circumference of your finger. Once fitted to your finger, simply read the number to find out your Canadian size. Watch this video for a better understanding. We strongly suggest you avoid the virtual ring sizer and order the plastic one. Some jewelry stores send the free ring sizer by mail.


Wondering how to find out your ring size without a ring gauge? Take a piece of string, wrap it around your finger, mark the point where the string crosses, measure the length with a ruler and use the conversion chart to convert the circumference of your finger into Canadian size. It's that simple.


FAQ - Frequently asked questions

1. How do I choose the size of my engagement ring?

Choosing the right size for your engagement ring is a delicate process. You can use both methods at home.

The string method: 

Wrap a thin wire or cord around the finger on which you plan to wear the ring. Mark the point where the wire crosses, then measure this length in millimeters with a ruler. Use a conversion chart to find the corresponding ring size.

The exemplary ring method: 

Use a ring that fits you well and measure its inside diameter in millimeters. Consult a conversion chart to find the corresponding size. Repeat the exercise a few times to make sure your measurements are correct. For the most accurate measurements, we recommend that you consult a jeweler who has high-precision measuring tools and rings. Avoid measuring your finger when it's very hot or very cold, and preferably do it at the end of the day.


2. What is the standard ring size in Canada?

In Canada, there is no standard size as such, since finger size varies from person to person. However, the most frequently purchased ring sizes for women are often between 6 and 7 in North American measurement terms. For men, this range is generally between 9 and 12. However, while there are more commonly sold ring sizes, accurate measurement is essential to ensure a comfortable and secure fit.


3. How do I convert my ring size to US size?

If you start with a Canadian ring size, the conversion is simple, since the measurements are the same. If you don't already know your ring size, measure it. You can use the wire method, the exemplary ring method or consult a jeweller for an accurate measurement. Once you know the circumference or diameter of your ring, use the conversion table to find the equivalent in US size. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right ring size is a fundamental step in ensuring long-term comfort and satisfaction. Whether you opt for at-home measuring methods or consult professionals, it's crucial to take the time to determine the Size ring size that's right for you.


Flamme en rose is an excellent choice for reliable expertise and excellent customer service. On-site experts will not only help you measure your finger precisely, but also understand the subtleties between different sizes and measuring systems. Their professional advice guarantees the best possible choice.