Commissioning Information>> Sizing Information
Ring Size
If you don't already know the ring size you require, you are welcome to visit me at a craft event or arrange a time to visit my workshop to have your finger measured.
Alternatively, if you are unable to visit me then gauging a ring-size is a service that most high street jewellers will provide free of charge or if you have already paid a deposit towards a commission I can loan you a professional ring gauge (details below).
UK ring sizes are measured from A-Z and in half sizes. I can also take International orders so please let me know what country you are ordering from.
Ring Sizing Systems: Different countries use different ring size systems.
The size of your hands can change over the course of the day and can also be affected by temperature (your fingers will be smaller when it’s cold and larger when warm). It might be best to have your finger measured a few times when they are a 'normal' temperature to ensure you order the best size. Your fingers are likely to be at their largest in the afternoon or evening.
Remember your hands will be slightly larger in the warmer months and smaller in the colder ones. Therefore ideally you want a ring to fit snuggly in the warmer months but not so tight as to be uncomfortable or too loose in the cooler months. If you require further advice about how to make sure you have the correct ring size, please get in contact to discuss things further.
Please note that the width of the ring you are measuring is also another factor to consider as this can also make a difference to the size. Wide rings are usually one size larger than the actual finger size. If you are not able to visit me then I would suggest trying on rings in the width and size you require.
I hope this information has been of help. Ultimately, the ring size is your decision, but I hope this has given you a good guide. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Below is some information about possible ways to obtain the correct size for a surprise.
Ring Sizer Loan
If you have already paid a deposit for the creation of silver prototype or deposit towards a commission I can loan you a professional ring gauge. This is posted to to you directly using the Royal Mail 'Signed For' service.
Please note that the gauge must be returned within 7 days of receiving it using box it was sent in by the Royal Mail 'Signed For' service.
If the gauge is not returned or is returned damaged or broken there is a charge of £50 to cover the cost of replacement.
If you would like to borrow a ring gauge, please get in contact. Please note that I only have a couple of gauges so I might not be able to send one straight away.
Surprise Engagement Proposal?
This can be tricky if you don't already know the correct size but I have a few suggestions on how to gauge this.....
Using an existing ring that fits
If the commission is intended as a surprise for the recipient and you need to find out the ring size, there are a couple of ways to determine this. If there is a ring that the person already wears on the finger it is intended for, the best way to determine the size it to take it to a local jewellers for them to gauge the size. In the UK and a number of other countries it is the fourth finger on the left hand. Make sure it is a ring that has been recently worn as finger sizes can change over time.
Of course they are likely not to have ring that already fits their engagement finger so another option, is to get a size for a ring that is worn on the right hand ring finger. This can give a good indication of size although not full proof. Often the finger size of the fingers on the dominate hand will be will be larger (approximately half a size though this is not always the case!).
Measuring an existing ring yourself
It is possible to measure the inside diameter of the ring to determine the size, but if you do so, please make sure this is with an accurate tool, like a micrometer. A ruler will not be sufficient and will give you an inaccurate reading. Fractions of a millimetre will mean the difference between one size and another. 1mm either way can make a difference of more than two sizes.
Engagement Ring
Something which has been successful in the past is to ask if a trusted friend or family member would take the person shopping under the guise of shopping for a ring themselves but encourage the person to try rings on too with the aim of trying to find out their size that way.
Ring Resizing
It is always best to make the ring to the correct size first, so if you are able to find out the exact size this is ideal. If required, it may be possible to successfully resize a ring within a couple of sizes. However, due to the detailed nature of my work some are more difficult than others and there can be issues in either making a ring larger or smaller, especially if set with gemstones. Therefore it is best to discuss the options on an individual basis and will be quoted for as such. In most cases, it is far easier to make a ring larger than to make it smaller, as sizing down requires removing a section of the band. This is not ideal as this involves cutting, reshaping and soldering the band, which can possibly alter the flow of the design or position of a feature (possibly breaking the flow of a tendril). There is a possibility with settings that the gemstones in the ring can be disrupted and may require being re-set. There is usually a greater cost associated with making a ring smaller than larger. To discuss this further, please get in touch.
There is another option if you decide you would rather wait to have the ring made after your proposal. I can make up a presentation box for you to give to the recipient when you propose. This consists of a printout of the proposed design on high quality paper, along with information about my work. This is enclosed in one of my large 'Georgina Ettridge' branded presentation boxes. With this option the recipient will see the thought and effort that you have taken to think about the ring, but you have the peace of mind that the ring size and design can be checked before it is made.
The presentation commission box is £30 but if for instance you wish me to source a gemstone or have anything else included, this is worked out on an individual basis. Should you proceed with a commission, the cost of the box will be deducted from the total of your commission. If you are interested in this option, please get in touch to discuss this further.
Chains are available in different lengths including 16" (standard length), 18" & 20", which can be selected during the ordering process. If you are unsure, please add to the 'notes' box that this is to be confirmed and it can be discussed after the order has been placed, and charged accordingly.
Longer chain lengths from 22" to 30" are available on request and are quoted for on an individual basis. Please get in touch via the Contact page to discuss your requirements.
A guide to determining the correct chain length:
Either measure a favourite necklace of a length that you like or if you are unsure about which length you require, use a piece of string with a knot in one end and bring the other end loosely around to where you wish the necklace to sit. (Please remember that the pendant will sit below this line - look at the approximate dimensions of each individual piece).
If the necklace is a gift, if you can measure a chain that the person already wears. If this is not possible, please note that 16" is the standard length. If the length you purchase is incorrect I am happy to exchange it, providing the chain is returned unworn in its original condition.
Additional Chains
If you would like more than one length of chain, extras can be purchased. Please Contact me to discuss your requirements.
Bracelet Sizing
If you have a bracelet that already fits you, measure the length of bracelet and make a note of it on the order, so I can make it to your exact size.
Alternatively, measure your wrist and then add 2cm as this will give you the length required. A standard length bracelet is 19cm to 20cm (7.5"-8").
Bangle Sizing
If you have a bangle that already fits you, measure the inside diameter and make a note of it on the order, so I can make it to your exact size.
Measuring your hand
To measure the correct fit, hold your hand outstretched as if you were putting on a bangle and measure the widest part of your hand the bracelet will slide over. The average size is around 19cm-20cm (7.5" - 8.0") depending on how big or small your hand is.
Earrings on hook fittings instead of posts?
All earrings, unless otherwise stated have a 'post' fitting. If you prefer hooks many of my designs can be altered to accommodate this fitting. Please contact me stating the piece you have in mind. There is normally no extra charge for this service.
Can earrings be made into clip-ons?
A lot of my designs can accommodate clip-on or screw back fixing earrings. Please contact me with the design you have in mind and I will be able to advise if it is suitable and the additional cost.
You may also find some of the other
'Commissioning Information' pages of interest including 'Commissioning Process', 'Sizing Information', 'Precious Metal & Hallmarks', 'Gemstone Information', 'Heirloom Redesign' and 'Enquiry Forms'.
I hope these have been of help and I look forward to discussing your commission.
For inspiration please also visit the 'Bespoke Gallery' pages.