Is it better for a ring to be snug or loose?

A well-fitting ring slides over the largest knuckle with mild resistance, then sits comfortably at the base of the finger without sliding around. Two simple tests confirm the fit. The slip-paper test: a thin slip of paper should pass between the band and the skin at rest with the ring on. The rotation test: you should be able to twist the ring 90 degrees on the finger with light effort, but it should not spin freely under its own weight. If both pass, the size is right for the current state of the finger. Sizing fluctuates by roughly half a size between morning and evening for most people, so the perfect fit always has a little give.

If you have to choose between a hair too snug and a hair too loose, slightly snug is the safer call for an engagement ring. A loose ring spins on the finger, which tips the stone to the side, hides it from view and exposes the prongs to repeated knocks. It also drops off in winter when fingers shrink, which is the most common reason a ring is lost. A slightly snug ring still slides over the knuckle and settles into place, even if removing it takes a few extra seconds. Wedding bands sit closer to neutral, since they do not have a raised head that needs to stay upright.