How to Choose a Ring as a Gift

Ring size is usually the first concern when buying a gift. Yet even a perfectly fitting ring can remain in its box because it feels awkward between the fingers, clashes with favourite jewellery or has a stone that sits too high.

It helps to change the order of your decisions: first establish what kind of ring the recipient will enjoy wearing and on which finger, then choose the size.

These tips apply to Christmas presents, birthdays and anniversaries—including a ring given without a marriage proposal.

First, decide which finger the ring is for

It sounds like a small detail, but it affects almost everything else.

Some people wear delicate rings on their ring finger; others prefer a more substantial design on the middle finger. The same ring can look different in each position and require a different size.

Notice whether she already wears a ring on the finger you have in mind. Will your gift replace it, sit alongside it or go on the other hand?

Do not rely on her moving the ring to another finger if the size is wrong. A different finger may mean a different size and wearing preference. Choose with a particular position in mind.

The side view matters as much as the view from above

A product photograph naturally draws attention to the stone or decorative shape. When worn, however, the height above the finger matters too.

If she frequently puts on gloves, reaches into pockets or works with her hands, establish whether she likes raised settings. A prominent stone may suit her perfectly, but the design should fit her habits.

Ask to see the ring from the side. Look at:

• How high the decorative element sits.

• Whether any parts project outwards at the sides.

• How wide the band is between neighbouring fingers.

• How the inside is finished.

If you are shopping online and there is no side photograph, contact us. Ask about the height, width and construction of the particular design.

For someone who does not want a coloured stone, explore the sculpted silver ring or the yellow gold ring with an interwoven knot. A stone-free design is not automatically low-profile, so check that separately.

Will it accompany a wedding ring? Compare them together

Matching the gold colour is not enough when choosing another ring to wear with an engagement or wedding ring.

The band heights and space around the settings matter too. Two rings may look lovely individually yet overlap or rub against each other when worn together. A wider combination can also feel tighter than a single ring.

If they will sit together on the same finger, try the particular combination whenever possible. For a surprise gift, bring front and side photographs of the existing ring and its measurements.

For an anniversary, consider the yellow gold ring with a row of natural diamonds or the yellow gold ring with laboratory-grown diamonds. Have the suitability of the actual pair assessed before choosing one to accompany her current ring.

She will see a coloured stone throughout the day

People mainly see their earrings in a mirror. They see their rings while typing, drinking coffee and travelling to work. Choosing a colour she truly enjoys makes sense.

It does not have to match her birth month. If she loves purple and chooses coloured jewellery herself, the silver ring with an oval amethyst may be a useful direction. For someone who prefers more decoration, explore the amethyst ring with a cubic zirconia halo.

When comparing them, cover the prices and picture both on her hand. Which resembles the pieces she chooses herself? That can be more useful than looking for the largest stone within your budget.

Consider band width alongside size

A narrow and a wide ring in the same labelled size may feel different. A wider band can feel tighter.

If you are establishing the size from an existing ring, use one of similar width where possible. If you only have a thin ring to measure but want a wider design, explain that during your consultation. Do not automatically add a fixed number of sizes: the internal profile and the recipient’s hand matter too.

This is useful when considering the three-tone gold ring or another more substantial design. A size taken from a very narrow band provides a starting point that needs context.

How to establish the size of a gift ring

An in-store measurement is the most reliable option. For a surprise, use a ring the recipient comfortably wears on the same finger of the same hand.

Have it measured or establish its inside diameter at home. Measure the opening from inner edge to inner edge, excluding the metal, and compare the result with the Princess Jewellery size chart.

If you cannot establish the size, ask about the options for your chosen ring before ordering. Our frequently asked questions state that one free size adjustment is included for most standard designs. The feasibility and extent of any adjustment still need to be confirmed for the particular ring.

Do not assume an open band is universally adjustable. Adjustment must be part of the intended design; a gap in the construction does not guarantee it.

If it is not a proposal, give the gift a clear context

A ring can be a gift from parents, a friend or a partner. It does not have to mean a marriage proposal. In a romantic relationship, however, a small ring box may create that expectation.

You do not need to avoid diamonds or limit yourself to understated designs. A simple sentence can make the occasion clear: “I chose this for your birthday because I know you love these shapes.”

For a gift, start with the ring collection. If you are planning a proposal, explore the engagement rings.

Wait before engraving if you are unsure

A name or date can make a ring feel more personal. First, establish the size and whether the design suits the recipient.

Custom alterations and engraving can affect exchange or return conditions. Read the exchange information and the particular personalisation terms before ordering.

If you are still estimating the size, write your message on a card and consider engraving later. Confirm in advance that engraving is possible for the ring you choose.

A good ring choice rests on a few specific details: the intended finger, the height and width she finds comfortable, and whether she will wear it alone. With that brief, choosing among silver rings, gold and coloured stones becomes much easier.