How Should An Engagement Ring Fit On Your Finger?
Keep reading below to help yourself answer… how should an engagement ring fit on your finger?
Finding the right fit
Defining the ‘perfect fit’
Unfortunately, there is never going to be a ‘perfect fit’. This is because our fingers change size with the environment and our daily activities, which is completely normal. It is important to understand that your ring will not always fit the same way.
When sizing rings, it is better to be too tight, rather than too loose – the goal is for it to stay on. If it is easy for you to pull your ring off, you’ll be much more prone to it coming off accidentally when rummaging in your handbag, between the sofa cushions, or pulling off a pair of gloves. Many rings are lost due to them being too loose.
A ring that fits well won’t squeeze the skin or feel like it’s going to fall off easily. A gentle tug should move the ring over your knuckle and the ring should not tip one side or the other. It should sit straight across. Remember, it is completely normal for there to be a slight indentation when you take your ring off – just not a permanent one.
Finger type
Not everyone has the same finger type so be sure to keep this in mind. Hands come in all shapes and sizes and not everybody has the fingers of a professional hand model. The way your ring fits will depend on your finger type:
Knuckles Bigger Than Fingers
Take a look at your left hand for a second. If your knuckles are bigger than the finger on either side, ring sizing may be a bit trickier. You will need to ensure your ring will fit over your knuckle, but not too big to be loose on the finger itself. Your knuckle will bear the responsibility of keeping your ring on in this case. If there is a notable size difference between the knuckle and finger, your ring will most likely spin when you wear it – especially engagement rings as they tend to be more top-heavy. This is not a problem though, as having sizing beads added to the inside of the ring is a simple solution. They ensure a comfortable fit, and prevent some spinning of the ring.
Fingers Bigger Than Knuckles
If your fingers are bigger than your knuckles, you may need to pink a ring tighter than you think, as you won’t have the knuckle barrier of safety. If you find the snugness uncomfortable, choosing a narrower band may help.
Top tips:
Get sized early afternoon, after lunch, before dinner
This is the best time of the day to be sized as your finger will be at its largest, most stable size.
Always get a second opinion
Always get a second opinion. This may seem like a lot of work but it is most definitely worth it. You’ll be wearing this ring for years to come so it is much better to be safe than sorry. The more opinions, the better.
Ring sizing
How to Guess Your Partner’s Size
In modern days, many people opt to have their partner involved in the selection process, however some still choose to maintain the element of surprise. People often base the measurement off of one of their partner’s current rings, forgetting that most people never wear rings on their ring finger until they are engaged. Using this method will mean that the sizing will be inaccurate as every finger is a little different.
If you are completely unsure, it may be good to have someone on the inside, e.g. a friend to take them on a shopping trip consisting of a quick pop into the jewellers, or a colleague to ask a subtle question! Just ensure this is someone you would trust with your life, of course.
No matter what, it is definitely best to guess a few sizes too big as the ring will at least fit on your partner’s finger for the proposal. The element of surprise will still stand and you can always take the ring back to the jeweller for resizing if you need to.
Signs your engagement ring is too small
- The ring won’t turn. You should be able to spin your ring with a little effort. If you can’t, submerge your hand in iced water for 10 minutes, and try again. If this still won’t work, it is too tight.
- You’ve got a muffin top. If your finger bulges out above or below the ring, your ring is too small.
- Your ring is creating a permanent indent. This is a classic sign that your ring is too tight and needs to be sized up.
- You can’t remove your ring. If you need butter, olive oil or Windex to remove your ring on a regular basis, it’s time to resize.
- Your finger tingles or hurts. There should be no discomfort and definitely no tingling.
Remember: It is completely normal for your ring to be extra snug in the morning, after exercising, travelling or a night of drinking.
Getting your ring resized
A ring being resized either two sizes up or two sizes down should be no problem. Any more than this may require a new custom band, as the resizing may compromise the ring’s integrity. Be wary that frequent resizing is not good for the metal. Also, be cautious about buying an eternity band with diamonds around the entire band if you are unsure of the exact size. Eternity bands often can only be resized a quarter size up or down if there’s enough excess metal, otherwise you may have to pay for the ring to be completely remade.
Resize / exchange policies
Lastly, make sure that you have a solid resizing or exchange policy in writing. Custom designed rings often include a free resize, one size up or down.