Is the Hong Kong sizing system the same as the Chinese mainland system?

No, they are different systems. Hong Kong has its own traditional sizing system, while mainland China primarily uses diameter measurements in millimeters, similar to the EU system but with different values.

Can I use the Ring Sizer app in China?

Yes, the Ring Sizer app works worldwide including in China. It provides US, UK, EU and Chinese ring size conversions to help you find your perfect size.

Ring Sizes in China: Chinese Sizing System Guide

Q: What is the difference between Hong Kong and mainland China ring sizes?

Hong Kong uses a direct HK sizing system with specific numerical values, while mainland China predominantly uses a diameter-based system measured in millimeters. These systems are not directly equivalent and require proper conversion.

Q: How do I convert my US ring size to a Chinese size?

Use our conversion table or Ring Sizer app to match your US size. US 7 corresponds to HK size 14, for example. For mainland China, convert to the diameter measurement in millimeters.

China has a unique and somewhat complex ring sizing landscape. Unlike Western countries that use a single standardized system, China employs two distinct ring sizing methods depending on the region and retailer: the Hong Kong (HK) system and the mainland China diameter-based system. Understanding both systems is essential for anyone purchasing rings from Chinese retailers or traveling to China for jewelry shopping.

This comprehensive guide covers both systems, provides detailed conversion tables, and explains the differences between Hong Kong and mainland China ring sizes. Whether you're shopping online from an international retailer or buying directly in Hong Kong or mainland China, this guide will help you find your perfect ring size.

The Hong Kong Ring Sizing System (HK System)

Hong Kong has maintained its own traditional ring sizing system for decades. The HK system uses numerical sizes that range typically from 5 to 28, with each increment representing a specific inner diameter measurement. This system is primarily used by jewelers and retailers throughout Hong Kong and increasingly by online retailers serving the Hong Kong market.

The HK sizing system is based on the inner diameter of the ring, measured in millimeters. Each size number corresponds to a specific diameter value. For example, HK size 14 corresponds to a diameter of approximately 17.4mm, which is equivalent to a US women's size 7. The system provides good granularity, allowing for precise sizing.

Many traditional Hong Kong jewelry stores and heritage retailers use this system exclusively. If you're buying from a Hong Kong jewelry house or luxury retailer with Hong Kong origins, you'll likely encounter HK ring sizes. The advantage of this system is its precision and the long-standing reliability of Hong Kong craftsmanship in jewelry.

The Mainland China Diameter-Based System

Mainland China predominantly uses a diameter-based system measured in millimeters (mm). This system is similar in concept to the European system but uses different numerical values and measurement standards. Ring sizes in mainland China are typically expressed as a number representing the inner diameter of the ring in millimeters.

The mainland system is more scientific and straightforward than the HK system. A ring size of 16mm means the inner diameter is 16 millimeters. This system has gained popularity as mainland China's jewelry industry has modernized and expanded. International brands operating in mainland China often adapt their sizing to use this diameter-based approach.

The mainland China system offers several advantages: it's easy to understand, requires no memorization of conversion charts, and aligns with international metric standards. If you're shopping from major online retailers based in mainland China or international brands with mainland operations, you'll likely see sizes presented in millimeters.

Hong Kong to US Ring Size Conversion

Hong Kong Size	US Size (Women's)	UK Size	EU Size	Diameter (mm)
7	4	G 1/2	45	14.3
8	4.5	H 1/2	47	14.8
9	5	J	49	15.3
10	5.5	K 1/2	51	15.8
11	6	M	52	16.3
12	6.5	N 1/2	54	16.8
13	7	P	55	17.1
14	7.5	Q 1/2	57	17.6
15	8	S	58	18.1
16	8.5	T 1/2	60	18.6
17	9	V	61	19.1
18	9.5	W 1/2	63	19.6
19	10	Y	64	20.1

Mainland China Diameter to US Ring Size Conversion

Mainland China (mm)	US Size (Women's)	UK Size	EU Size	Hong Kong Size
15.3	5	J	49	9
15.8	5.5	K 1/2	51	10
16.3	6	M	52	11
16.8	6.5	N 1/2	54	12
17.3	7	P	55	13
17.8	7.5	Q 1/2	57	14
18.3	8	S	58	15
18.8	8.5	T 1/2	60	16
19.3	9	V	61	17
19.8	9.5	W 1/2	63	18
20.3	10	Y	64	19

Key Differences: Hong Kong vs Mainland China Systems

While both systems measure the same thing—the inner diameter of a ring—they use different numerical representations and have different historical origins. Understanding these differences is crucial for avoiding confusion when shopping.

Measurement Standard

Hong Kong uses a proprietary sizing scale developed over decades of jewelry craftsmanship. The HK system doesn't directly translate to millimeter measurements without a conversion chart. Mainland China's system is metric-based, using millimeters directly, making it more universally understandable to international customers.

Precision and Granularity

The HK system typically offers sizes in whole numbers and half sizes, while the mainland system can offer sizing to the nearest millimeter, theoretically providing greater precision. However, for practical purposes, both systems provide sufficient accuracy for ring fitting.

Retail Application

Hong Kong jewelry stores, particularly luxury and heritage brands, typically use the HK system exclusively. Modern e-commerce platforms in mainland China and international retailers often use the diameter system for clarity and universal appeal. When shopping online, always verify which system the retailer is using.

Shopping Tips for Chinese Ring Sizes

1. Verify the Sizing System

Before purchasing, always confirm which sizing system the retailer uses. Look for size charts or conversion information on their website. If it's unclear, contact customer service to ask whether they use HK, mainland diameter, or another system.

2. Measure Your Current Ring

Take a ring that fits you well and measure its inner diameter with a ruler or calipers. This measurement in millimeters can be converted to either the HK system or used directly with mainland retailers. This is often more accurate than self-measurement.

3. Use the Ring Sizer App

Our Ring Sizer app is available worldwide and provides accurate conversions between US, UK, EU, and Chinese sizing systems. Use it to quickly convert your known size to the appropriate Chinese system before shopping.

4. Account for Metal Thickness

Different metals and ring styles have different thicknesses. A thicker band may feel different on your finger than a thinner band, even at the same size. If you're buying a band that's significantly different in thickness from rings you normally wear, consider sizing accordingly.

5. Check Return Policies

Quality retailers, whether in Hong Kong or mainland China, usually offer sizing adjustments or returns if the ring doesn't fit. Confirm the return policy before purchasing, especially for international orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Hong Kong and mainland China ring sizes?

Hong Kong uses a traditional HK sizing system with specific numerical values, while mainland China predominantly uses a diameter-based system measured in millimeters. These systems are not directly equivalent and require proper conversion. HK size 14 corresponds to approximately 17.4mm, while mainland China would express this as approximately 17.8mm depending on the exact sizing standard.

How do I convert my US ring size to a Chinese size?

Use the conversion tables provided above or the Ring Sizer app. For example, US size 7 equals HK size 14 (approximately 17.4mm diameter) or mainland China size 17.8mm. The Ring Sizer app makes this conversion instant and ensures accuracy.

Which system is used by most Chinese online jewelry retailers?

Mainland China e-commerce platforms increasingly use the diameter system in millimeters because it's more universally understood. Hong Kong retailers and traditional jewelry houses typically stick with the HK system. International retailers selling in China often provide both conversions.

Can I use the Ring Sizer app to determine my Chinese ring size?

Yes, absolutely. The Ring Sizer app provides accurate conversions from your US, UK, or EU size to both Hong Kong and mainland China sizing systems. Download the app free on iOS and use it to get your precise Chinese ring size before shopping.

Are HK ring sizes the same across all Hong Kong jewelry retailers?

Yes, the HK sizing system is standardized across Hong Kong retailers. However, individual retailers may have slightly different sizing tolerances or adjustment practices, so always check their specific sizing chart and return policy.

What if my size falls between two Chinese sizes?

Many jewelers in both Hong Kong and mainland China can create custom sizes or adjust rings to fit precisely. If your conversion falls between sizes, contact the jeweler to discuss custom sizing options, or consider rounding to the nearest whole size and having the ring adjusted after purchase.

Related Resources

Interested in ring sizing in other Asian countries? Check out our guides:

Need to convert between other systems? Try our tools:

Conclusion

Understanding Chinese ring sizing systems—both the Hong Kong HK system and mainland China's diameter-based measurements—is essential for anyone shopping for jewelry in China or from Chinese retailers. While the two systems differ in their numerical representations, both reliably measure ring size and provide a path to finding your perfect fit. Use the conversion tables in this guide, leverage the Ring Sizer app for instant conversions, and always verify which system your retailer uses before making a purchase. With these tools and knowledge, shopping for rings from Chinese jewelers becomes straightforward and confident.