How to find your ring size with a tape measure or ring sizer

If you have a piece of inelastic string, ideally dental floss, a ruler or measuring tape, and a pen, you can get your ring size. Better yet, have someone else help you for an even easier process.

1. Wrap the string around the base of the finger in question.
2. Mark the spot where the tip of the string reaches the rest of the loop.
3. Measure the demarcated length of string in millimeters.

• 44.1 mm = Ring size 3
• 45.4 = 3.5
• 46.7 = 4
• 48 = 4.5
• 49.2 = 5
• 50.5 = 5.5
• 51.8 = 6
• 53.1 = 6.5
• 54.3 = 7
• 55.6 = 7.5
• 56.9 = 8
• 58.3 = 8.5
• 59.4 = 9
• 60.7 = 9.5
• 62 = 10
• 63.3 = 10.5
• 64.5 = 11
• 65.8 = 11.5
• 67.1 =12
• 68.3 = 12.5
• 69.6 = 13

If you regularly measure fingers for ring size or you really don't trust your own accuracy when it comes to the string and measuring tap method, there are dedicated tools you can use to measure your ring size.

The first, and the easiest tool to use, is simply a collection of 27 stainless steel rings, each of which has its size marked on the link. The rings are connected to a wire loop so they stay together. Once you figure out which ring fits you the best, you have your size.

Another option is to get a ring-sizing tool called a mandrel. A mandrel is a long dowel with an increasing girth and ring sizes marked along its expanding length. Just take whichever ring you already own that's the most comfortable and slide it onto the tool to find your size. You'll know the size by the marking on the mandrel where it stops.

Any jeweler worth his or her wacky jewelry appraising monocle thing will help you find your ring size for free, though of course they'll be hoping you buy something. So if you've got the time and you want to be sure it's right, just turn to the experts.