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Planning to propose but worried about raising suspicion? You may have to be sneaky to get their ring size. But how do you get a reliable measurement without spoiling the surprise? Here’s how you can determine their ring size without setting off alarm bells. 

how to secretly measure ring size

It’s likely your S.O. already has a ring that fits like a charm. Ideally, you can “borrow” this ring and have it measured. Unfortunately, if it’s a staple in their jewelry collection, they may quickly notice it’s missing.  
If you can’t get an existing ring out of the house, try tracing it on a piece of paper. You can then take the paper to Helzberg and have it measured for size or use our convenient online ring sizing chart. You can even take things further by using putty or soap to make an accurate impression of the existing ring. Just be sure to clean the ring when you’re finished. 

ask a friend or family member for help

If you both share a trustworthy confidant, consider asking them about the mystery ring size. Your fiancé-to-be isn’t likely to suspect that you recruited someone to help with your proposal. This will allow your accomplice to acquire the information more directly.

work with a jeweler

The only truly accurate way to guarantee an engagement ring fits is to get a professional measurement using a finger-sizing gauge. Unfortunately, this can be hard to arrange if you’re trying to shop secretly. One way to avoid suspicion is to put a decent amount of time between the measurement and your proposal. 
For example, you could take them out to eat and then do a little impromptu window shopping. While browsing, casually suggest that you enter a local Helzberg store to look around. You can then have their finger measured just in case you want to purchase a gift sometime in the future. 
Even if they suspect something, wait several weeks to pop the big question. You can even throw them off the track by following through with your excuse and thrilling them with a surprise “wow!” gift before you propose. 
With all that said, even if you brazenly ask their ring size, they will never know when that monumental moment is coming. This can generate pulse-pounding anticipation and deep feelings of excitement which can elevate the experience. 
Whether you decide to be sneaky or direct, you should try to get their ring size before you start shopping. If possible, bring that special someone with you to a Helzberg Diamonds near you and have one of our consultants use a finger-sizing gauge to get an accurate measurement. You can also use our ring sizing guide to help you get a good estimate of their size from the comfort of home.