How to choose a ring: size, width and setting

A ring is the only piece of jewellery where the size is non-negotiable — and the only one whose size changes during the day. That is why most disappointing ring purchases come down to fit, not taste.

Why the same size fits some days and not others

Fingers are not a fixed size. They are slimmer in the morning and in the cold, and fuller in the evening, in hot weather, after salty food and after exercise. The difference can be a whole size.

• Measure in the evening, not the morning. A ring that fits in the evening will fit all day. It doesn't work the other way round.
• Don't measure when your hands are cold. Cold fingers give a size that is too small, and come summer the ring won't go on.
• If your fingers swell regularly, choose a size that slides over the knuckle with slight resistance rather than freely.

Width changes the size

A wide band sits tighter than a narrow one in the same size — it covers more of the finger and follows its shape less closely. In practice, that means sizing up.

• Up to 3 mm — your measured size.
• 4–6 mm — usually half a size up.
• Over 6 mm — a full size up, especially if the band has straight edges.

Don't guess your size: our size guide has a calculator that lets you work it out on the spot.

Browse: All rings, Classic rings, Gold-tone rings, Silver-tone rings, Men's rings.

Stone and setting

The setting is what holds the stone in place, and it decides whether a ring can be worn every day.

• Prong setting. The stone is visible from every side and sparkles more, but the prongs catch on knitwear and hair.
• Bezel setting. The stone is surrounded by metal. Nothing snags, and the stone is better protected — the best option for everyday wear.
• Flush setting. The stone sits level with the surface. The safest choice for work and sport.

Which finger

There are only two practical rules: a ring on your writing hand wears faster, and a wide band gets in the way more on your index finger than on your ring finger.

If it's an engagement ring, we've written a separate guide to finding out someone's ring size without giving the game away: engagement rings.

Where a ring shows wear first

Not on the outside, but on the inside. It's the only part that constantly rubs against the skin — which is why gold plating wears through there first, even when the top of the ring still looks brand new.

How the different platings compare and how long they last: jewellery plating explained. How to tell surface build-up from worn plating: if your jewellery has darkened.

Gold plating has its own rules: caring for gold-plated jewellery.

Frequently asked questions