The
size of the finger is often recorded by what is known as the Allen
gauge, a tapering stick numbered from 1 to size 13 in half sizes. To
this stick is attached a chain, and pendant to the chain is a series of
rings of graduated sizes. When it is decided which ring of the series
best fits the finger, it is slipped on the gauge and its size
ascertained. If size 6 is a little tight and 6-1/2 a trifle loose, this indicates that 6-1/4 is the correct size.
In measuring the finger for a ring, by Engelmann's Ring, Finger and Millimeter Locking Gauge, the ring is set over the outside perpendicular
ends of the gauge (see plate). These are then separated to their
fullest extent, so that they touch the ring on both sides. The exact
size of the ring is thus indicated on the scale over the mark on the
movable upper part of the right-hand end.
To
measure the size of a finger, the ends should be separated sufficiently
to permit the finger to pass through the aperture between them. They
are then to be closed so as to touch lightly—not pinch or squeeze—the
flesh of the finger. When this has been done the ends are locked, and
if the knuckle passes easily through the aperture, the right size has
been found. This is recorded on the scale in the same way as in the
ring measurement. In measuring the finger of either a child, boy, girl,
or woman, who has not a large or high knuckle, a safe rule is to add a y2 ring-size to that which has been indicated by the measurement.
The
width of the metal ring-shank is ascertained by placing its lower,
centre part between the two inside perpendicular ends, and the exact
dimensions will be made apparent on the millimeter scale. Where the
shank is tapered, the maximum and minimum widths must be taken, and
these must both be stated in ordering a ring.
