How do you know which ring size to specify when shopping for a ring online? Have you ever been asked what your ring size was and came up clueless?

Some people might not even realise that there are ring sizes to go by when shoping for rings. 

If you are shopping for a ring and are clueless about ring sizes or you are just curious and want to know what your is (for future purposes), then the following steps and guidlines will help you to determine your ring size from the comfort of your home.

Follow steps to help you determine your ring size if you are out of the reach of a professional jeweller. These are easy steps that you can do at home.

1. 1.     Cut a strip of paper or a piece of string. The paper should be no wider than 3/4" and at least 4" long.
2. 2.     
   Wrap the paper or string around the base of the finger to be sized.
3. 3.     
   Mark the string or paper where it completes the circle. It should neither be too tight, nor slip off easily.
4. 4.    
   Measure the length of the paper or string. Measure from the beginning to the mark with a ruler or tape measure.
5. 5.     Find the measurement on the ring chart to find the corresponding ring size.
6. 6.     If all else fails, go to a jeweler (or any reputable jewelry department) and have them size your finger for you.

Tips for Using a Ring Chart

To be sure the right ring size is found…

• Measure the finger in the middle of the day and at normal temperature. Extreme heat or cold can change ring sizes as blood vessels contract or dilate, and the same effect can be measured with mood swings, a woman's menstrual cycle, or after vigorous exercise.
• Consider knuckle sizes. Individuals with slim fingers but thicker knuckles will want to be sure the ring size can accommodate moving the ring over the knuckle.
• Use a 100 percent scale when printing the chart. Many printers will automatically resize images before printing, but resizing a ring chart will make its measurements useless.
• Always round up to a larger size if necessary. Not all jewelers offer half or quarter ring sizes, and if the ring size is questionable between two numbers, it is best to choose the larger size.
• Try several types of sizers if possible. Since all ring size charts can vary, it is best to try more than one style of chart from more than one merchant. Averaging the sizes can create a more accurate measurement than a single chart.

PRINTABLE RING SIZER

Resources:      engagementrings.lovetoknow.com
                           http://www.wikihow.com/
                           wikipedia.com