UK Ring Size FAQ
Find answers to common questions about UK ring sizes
FAQ Categories
Understanding UK Ring Sizes
The UK ring size system uses letters ranging from A to Z+. Each letter corresponds to a specific inner circumference and diameter measurement. UK ring sizes are also used in Australia, Ireland, and several other Commonwealth countries.
Common UK ring sizes:
- Women: Typically range from J to O, with M being average.
- Men: Typically range from P to T, with R being average.
UK ring sizes differ from US sizes (which use numbers) and European sizes (which use circumference measurements in millimeters). Use our converter to translate between these systems.
UK Sizing & Measurement
Measurement Questions
There are several methods to measure your ring size: 1) Use a ring sizer at a jewelry store, 2) Measure a ring that fits well using our ring size chart, 3) Use a string or paper strip to measure your finger circumference.
Printable ring size charts can be accurate if printed at 100% scale and used correctly. However, for the most accurate measurement, we recommend visiting a jeweler or using a professional ring sizer.
Conversion Questions
US and UK ring sizes use different measurement scales. For example, a US size 6 is approximately equivalent to a UK size L. US sizes typically range from 3-13, while UK sizes use letters from A-Z.
General Questions
Finger size can change throughout the day due to temperature, activity level, and diet. Fingers tend to be larger in the evening and when warm. It's best to measure your ring size at different times of day.
The ring finger is traditionally the fourth finger of the left hand in many Western cultures. However, some cultures wear wedding rings on the right hand. The choice of which hand to wear a ring on is largely cultural and personal.
UK to International Conversion
Measurement Questions
If your ring size falls between two sizes, it's generally better to choose the larger size. This is especially true for wide bands and rings worn in warm weather. You can also consider having the ring professionally sized.
You can measure your ring size at home using: 1) A strip of paper wrapped around your finger, 2) A string marked where it overlaps, 3) A ring that fits well placed on our printable size chart. Remember to measure when your fingers are at room temperature.
Conversion Questions
You can use our ring size converter tool to convert your ring size to millimeters. Simply select your current size system, enter your size, and choose 'diameter' or 'circumference' in millimeters for the conversion.
Fit & Comfort
General Questions
A properly fitting ring should slide over your knuckle with slight resistance and sit comfortably at the base of your finger. It shouldn't be so tight that it leaves marks or indentations, nor so loose that it spins around easily.
Finger size can change due to temperature (cold makes fingers shrink, heat makes them expand), time of day (fingers are often larger in the evening), diet (salt intake can cause water retention), weight changes, and hormonal fluctuations.
Most rings can be resized by a jeweller, typically up to two sizes up or down. However, some designs like eternity bands with stones all around may be difficult or impossible to resize. Materials like tungsten and titanium cannot be resized.
The average ring size for women in the UK is M to N, while for men it's S to T. However, there's significant variation based on height, weight, and hand size.
Special Situations
General Questions
You can borrow a ring they already wear on the intended finger and measure it, trace the inside of the ring on paper, or compare it to a size chart. Alternatively, ask friends or family if they know the person's size, or involve a trusted friend in the surprise.
No, UK ring sizes use alphabetical letters (e.g., L, M, N), while US sizes use numbers (e.g., 6, 7, 8) and European sizes use circumference measurements in millimeters. You'll need to convert between these systems.
Yes, wider bands (>6mm) feel tighter than narrow bands of the same size. You may need to go up a half or full size for wider rings.
You can use a piece of string or paper strip wrapped around your finger, mark where it overlaps, and measure the length in millimeters. Alternatively, you can download our printable UK ring size chart.
Still Have Questions?
Use our tools to find your perfect UK ring size.