Before you take the next step and ask for your partner’s hand in marriage, you need to pick out an engagement ring. If you want the proposal to be a surprise, however, you’ll have to find out their ring size without asking directly. The guide below reveals a few tips for discreetly discovering your love’s ring size.

How to Stealthily Obtain Your Partner’s Ring Size

1. Ask a Friend or Family Member

If you’re lucky, someone close to your partner may already know their size. Ask parents, friends, and family members in secret. If nobody is sure, you can also enlist in their help to find out. Next time your partner is eating out with friends, they could all wear rings and casually suggest swapping around the table. This is especially helpful if one or more of their friends has an engagement ring. Even if your partner isn't wearing rings, they can still try on everyone else’s, and hopefully one will be a close or perfect fit. 

2. Borrow One of Their Rings

The best way to find your partner’s size is by looking at the rings they already own. This strategy can be tricky, because you don’t want them panicking over a missing favorite ring. Consider waiting until they're out of town, or choose one they bought recently—to ensure it still fits—but don’t wear very often. You can then take the ring to a jewelry store where they will measure it for you. If you don’t have time to make the trip, trace the inside of the ring onto a piece of paper. The jeweler can determine the right size from the diameter of your circle.

3. Pick out a Gift for "Someone Else"

For an extra sneaky strategy that makes a funny engagement story, take your partner to a jewelry shop to pick out something for “someone else.” Think of somebody who is a similar size to your partner, such as your sibling or parent. Ask for your partner’s opinion on various pieces, like bracelets, watches, or necklaces, then state that you’ve found the perfect ring but don’t know that person’s size. Mention that they might share the same ring size, and your partner should share what they wear. You can then take note of that ring, but more importantly the size, to “save for later.”

When you’re ready to pop the question, find the perfect engagement ring for your partner at Somos Designer Jewelry Gallery. Serving Rockland County, NY, this award-winning jeweler offers the finest in custom jewelry. Owner Marie Somos crafts gorgeous, one-of-a-kind designs that your loved ones with adore, from birthstone necklaces made with ethically-sourced gemstones to engagement rings featuring conflict-free diamonds. Browse her collection of bridal rings online. If you have any questions, call (845) 348-0800.