How do I find out my finger size?
In the UK finger size is measured on the ‘Wheatsheaf’ gauge, which uses the letters of the alphabet with half sizes in between. A is the smallest and Z the largest, although we occasionally are asked for a ring in a Z+1 or a Z+2. We once made a pair of wedding rings for a client where his was Z+3 and hers was a more normal J. When laid on the desk hers fitted comfortably inside his. We do not charge for measuring your finger. There are ways of sizing your finger that can be found on the internet but most of them are open to error and we would always recommend always recommend you ask an expert to ensure an accurate measurement.
In other countries different systems are used which involve numbers and care should be taken not to confuse one country with another. We have a chart to convert international sizes.
The measurement of a finger should only be done when the hand is at normal temperature. A hot climate or just rushing around can cause the fingers to swell. In a similar way a cold day may cause the measurement to be too small as the finger shrinks. Pregnancy may also cause the fingers to swell. A wider ring will fit more tightly and should be made half a size larger than a narrow band for the same finger. It can’t be assumed that both hands will have the same corresponding finger sizes. The dominant hand usually has slightly larger fingers.
Another major consideration is the common situation when the knuckle is larger than the finger. This makes it hard to get a ring on and then it is loose when it is in position and may turn on the finger There are various options for this scenario. A ring clip can be attached as a temporary method. This allows some flexibility but is hazardous. If the difference between the knuckle and the finger size is only a size or two, a couple of beads can be fitted to the inside of the band. This allows the ring to go on but then gives it a grip to hold it in place. In some rings it can also act as a counterbalance.
If the difference in the sizes is larger, we would recommend fitting a ‘horseshoe’ spring. This is a small sprung section soldered into the back of the shank that will have the same effect. There are other options which although more expensive can provide a more satisfactory result.
When a knuckle is particularly large which is often the case when arthritis sets in, a ‘Super-Fit’ ring may be the solution. A ’Super-fit’ is a branded product from the USA which we can supply. It works on the principle of a hinged shank which clicks shut and can be released by using a micro-stylus.
Arguably the best innovation in recent times is the ‘Expandable’ ring made by PICCHIOTTI in Italy for which we have the exclusive distribution in the UK. This ingenious design builds a titanium spring into the construction of the ring so that it can be slid over the knuckle and then fits in place.
Some rings are more difficult to alter than others. A full eternity ring, for example, is a continuous row of diamonds. A difference of one or may be two sizes larger can often be achieved by filing out part of the inside of the ring. A delicate setting or delicate stones need special consideration. Also, a large alteration in a ring with pave set stones can cause the stones to pop out if decreasing in size or to shatter if increasing in size.
It may be necessary to have a ring removed from your finger if it has become too tight. This is a painless process which involves special cutting device and only takes a few minutes. However, the finger usually takes a few weeks to recover from the tight-fitting ring so should be allowed to rest before it is measured again. We provide this service free of charge and in a more comfortable environment than the hospital.
