Why Do Wide Rings Require Larger Finger Sizes?

Today, we'll be discussing why wide flat rings run small, and some general information to help you find the correct finger size for wide rings. Every person's finger is different so this information will not be accurate for every people or for comfort fit rings. Always have your finger size verified at your local jeweler. Over the past fifteen years, we've noticed some buyers struggle to find their correct finger size when ordering a wide ring. Unfortunately, the information available online does not accurately explain why a larger size is needed. The most common explanation is an increase in ring circumference measurement is the cause and that is not true. While some rings that are wider might have a larger circumference, many do not and they still require a larger finger size compared to their narrower counterpart. An increase in the surface area covered by a wider ring is another reason we often see. And while this is technically correct, it doesn't explain why a larger ring is required. As the width of you ring increase, it rest closer to your larger diameter knuckle or finger joints due to the curvature of the finger bone. As the ring width increases, so will your finger size. See Size Charts below.

 

Wide Ring vs Regular Ring Illustration:

Large hands or long fingers:

It is also important to note that this rule does not apply to everyone, as those with larger hands or longer fingers may be able to wear the same size for both.  It's possible that you can wear the exact same ring size whether it is a narrow band or a wide one up to a certain ring width. Again, I always recommend having your finger sized for a wide band at your local jeweler. Look at the illustration below. 

Long Finger vs. Short Finger Illustration:

                           

Regular Ring Sizing Chart Illustration:

The best way to get an accurate ring size measurement:

Trying to get an accurate ring sizing yourself with a string, or a piece of paper is risky and those plastic ring sizers that are adjustable are difficult to get an accurate result. The most accurate way to determine your finger size is with a metal finger gauge with a competent jeweler. They are marked in whole and half sizes and all jewelers have them. A narrow ring gauge is used to determine the finger size for thin rings up to 4 mm in width. Many wide ring gauges only go up to 8mm. If you are buying a wider ring, make sure you tell the jeweler so he can use the correct gauge.

The average length of a men's ring finger averages 69mm but ranges between 42mm & 96mm in length. If your finger size is closer to the lower end of the scale, I'd recommend the following size adjustment if you had your finger sized with a narrow ring sizer gauge: The correct size rings 8mm to 12mm wide increase your finger size half a size. The correct ring size 13mm to 18mm wide, increase your finger size by one full size. If your finger is greater than the average length, you may not need a larger size for rings 8mm to 12mm and an increase of only a half size for anything wider, but you should have your finger size checked by a competent jeweler before purchasing a ring with a wide ring sizer gauge at your local jewelry store. 

Wide vs Thin Ring Gauge: 

 

Factors that can affect your ring finger size: 

 

1. Water Retention: Fluid buildup in the body, leading to swelling in the hands and fingers and affecting the size of your ring finger.

2. Physical Activity: Intense physical activity or manual labor can cause your fingers to expand, making it difficult to wear your rings.

3. Medical: Conditions, such as arthritis, or edema, can cause swelling in the hands and fingers, affecting the size of your ring finger. 

4. Temperature: During the winter months, the cold weather can cause your fingers to shrink, making it difficult to wear your rings. In the summer, warm weather can cause your fingers to expand, making it easier to wear your rings.

5. Nutrition: A diet that is low in certain nutrients, such as iron, can lead to smaller finger size or salt can cause swelling.

6. Age: As you age, your skin loses elasticity and your ring size over time will be affected.

7. Weight changes: Rapid weight gain or loss can affect the size of your ring finger.