Best Guess Ring Size for Engagement Rings
Sometimes there is no way to measure without spoiling the surprise. Here is how to make the best possible guess and keep your options open.
Quick answer
Order a US 6 / UK L½ for a woman with average hands, or a US 6½ if her hands are broader. Choose a solitaire or plain band so it can be resized after the proposal.
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Inside circumference, mm
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Matched inside diameter 17.30 mm · circumference 54.35 mm
Improve the guess with what you know
- Slim, small hands: try US 5 to 5½ (UK J½ to K½).
- Average hands: US 6 to 6½ (UK L½ to M½).
- Broader or taller build: US 7 to 7½ (UK N½ to O½).
- Compare her hand to yours: if her ring finger is roughly the width of your little finger, measure yours and go from there.
Choose a resizable design
Plain bands, solitaires and three-stone rings resize easily. Full eternity rings, channel settings, tension settings and rings in tungsten or titanium usually cannot be resized at all — the whole ring has to be remade.
Ask the jeweller in writing whether a free first resize is included. Many offer one within 30 to 90 days of purchase.
After the proposal
Get her measured properly within a week or two, at room temperature and in the afternoon. Then book the resize. Until it is done, a plastic ring guard will keep a loose ring from slipping off.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to buy an engagement ring too big or too small?
Too big. She can wear it until it is sized, and sizing down is the cheaper, easier direction for a jeweller.
How long does resizing take?
Typically one to two weeks for a simple band, longer if stones must be reset.
Keep reading
For an expensive ring, confirm the size with a jeweller before ordering — see the ring size FAQs for resizing advice.