Ring Size Chart South Africa: How To Measure Your Ring Size at Home

Finding the perfect fit shouldn’t be guesswork. In South Africa, ring sizes use letters (A–Z with half sizes), which map to the inner circumference/diameter of a ring. This quick guide from Karoobling explains our local system, gives easy at-home measuring methods, and includes a handy size chart and conversion notes so you can shop with confidence. South Africa follows the UK lettering system for ring sizes, with each half-size stepping up by roughly 0.75 mm in inside circumference. Larson Jewelers+1

Quick Methods to Measure at Home

1. Measure a ring you already wear

   • Place it on a ruler and note the inside diameter (mm).

   • Match that number to the letter size in the chart below. This is one of the simplest, reliable methods. Silver Image Jewellery

2. String or paper strip method

   • Wrap a non-stretchy string around the base of your finger (snug, not tight), mark the overlap, then measure the length in millimetres.

   • Match that circumference (mm) to the chart letter. This method is widely used by SA jewellers for at-home sizing. American Swiss

Pro tips
• Measure at the end of the day when fingers are largest.
• Measure 3 times and use the average.
• If you’re between sizes, go up half a size—it’s usually more comfortable. Sterns

South African Ring Size Chart (Common Sizes)

Below are popular SA sizes with approximate inside diameter and circumference equivalents. (South Africa = UK letter system.)

• L ≈ 16.3 mm dia ≈ 51.2 mm circ

• M ≈ 16.7 mm dia ≈ 52.5 mm circ

• N ≈ 17.1 mm dia ≈ 53.7 mm circ

• O ≈ 17.5 mm dia ≈ 55.0 mm circ

• P ≈ 17.9 mm dia ≈ 56.2 mm circ

• Q ≈ 18.3 mm dia ≈ 57.5 mm circ

• R ≈ 18.7 mm dia ≈ 58.8 mm circ

• S ≈ 19.1 mm dia ≈ 60.0 mm circ

• T ≈ 19.5 mm dia ≈ 61.3 mm circ

• U ≈ 19.9 mm dia ≈ 62.5 mm circ

• V ≈ 20.3 mm dia ≈ 63.8 mm circ
  (Values aligned to local SA/UK charts that map letter sizes to diameter and circumference.) diamondrings.co.za

Typical ranges (guidance, not rules): many SA women’s sizes fall around L–N, and men’s around R–V. If you’re gifting and unsure, these are common starting points. Danielle Camera Jewellery

International Conversions (SA ↔ US)

South Africa uses letters (UK system). The United States uses numbers. Roughly:

• M ≈ US 6¼ | N ≈ US 6¾ | O ≈ US 7 | P ≈ US 7½ | Q ≈ US 8 | R ≈ US 8½ | S ≈ US 9 | T ≈ US 9½
  These conversions are approximate because ring profile (comfort-fit vs standard) can change feel. diamondrings.co.za+1

FAQs South Africans Ask About Ring Sizing

Do South African and UK sizes match?
Yes. SA follows the UK letter system (A–Z, with half sizes). Larson Jewelers

How big is a half size?
About 0.75 mm increase in inside circumference per half step. That’s why being “half a letter” off can feel noticeable. Shiny Rock Polished

Will wider bands feel tighter?
Often, yes. For chunky or very wide bands, many shoppers go ½ size up for comfort. (Fit style matters; comfort-fit interiors can also affect feel.) Hanover Jewelers

What if my size fluctuates?
Heat, cold, salt, and time of day all affect finger size. Measure at the end of the day and avoid measuring right after exercise.

Still not sure?
Choose an adjustable style or chat to us—Karoobling can help you pick the right fit or a flexible design that adapts to small changes. (We stock durable, water- and tarnish-resistant adjustable rings perfect for everyday wear.) Karoobling

When to Get Professionally Measured

At-home methods are great, but if you’re planning an engagement, eternity ring, or heirloom piece, pop into a jeweller for a professional sizing to confirm your letter. Many SA jewellers recommend a quick in-store measurement before custom/once-off pieces. Victoria's Jewellery

Shop Confidently with Karoobling

Karoobling is an online jewellery store in South Africa offering meaningful, modern pieces—built for real life. Explore adjustable and classic ring styles, plus everyday waterproof/tarnish-resistant designs for effortless wear.