Sterling Silver for Rings: Flattering for Every Hand

Sterling Silver for Rings has emerged as a go-to choice for jewelry lovers worldwide, living up to its promise of being “flattering for every hand” with its sleek design, cool tone, and versatile fit. The global sterling silver jewelry market is currently valued at approximately USD 12 billion and is expected to grow. What makes Sterling Silver for Rings so universally appealing? Unlike gold (which leans warm) or platinum (which is often too cool), sterling silver’s bright, neutral tone balances every skin undertone and hand shape: it elongates short fingers, softens wide knuckles, and adds elegance to delicate wrists—no matter your hand’s unique features. Let’s explore what defines Sterling Silver for Rings, why it’s a fan favorite, how to style its most popular designs, and everything else you need to embrace its flattering charm.

What is Sterling Silver for Rings

Definition and Core Composition

Sterling Silver for Rings refers to rings crafted from the globally recognized sterling silver alloy—a blend of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (most commonly copper, though some brands use zinc or palladium). This specific ratio isn’t arbitrary—it’s engineered to solve the biggest flaw of pure silver (99.9% pure):

• Pure Silver Limitation: Pure silver is extremely soft (Mohs hardness 2.5–3), making it prone to bending, scratching, and losing shape with daily wear. A pure silver ring might stretch out after a few weeks of typing or develop dents while carrying a bag.

• Sterling Silver Solution: The 7.5% alloy metals (copper, in most cases) boost the hardness to Mohs 3.5–4, creating a ring that’s durable enough for everyday use. Copper also enhances the silver’s strength without dulling its natural brightness—resulting in a ring that’s both practical and visually appealing.

• Key Authenticity Marker: Genuine Sterling Silver for Rings is stamped with “925” (the industry code for 92.5% pure silver) or “STERLING” on the inner band or clasp. This stamp guarantees the ring’s purity, distinguishing it from silver-plated or fake silver alternatives.

How Sterling Silver for Rings Differs from Other Silver Ring Materials

It’s easy to confuse sterling silver rings with other silver-based options—here’s how they compare:

• Pure Silver Rings (99.9%): Too soft for daily wear; best suited for decorative, occasional pieces (e.g., collector’s items). They tarnish quickly and are prone to damage, making them impractical for everyday use.

• Sterling Silver for Rings (92.5%): The sweet spot—hard enough to resist scratches and bending, pure enough to retain silver’s signature shine. They tarnish slower than pure silver and can last for decades with basic care.

• Silver-Plated Rings: A thin layer of silver (0.5–2 microns) bonded to a base metal (brass, nickel). Budget-friendly but short-lived—plating wears off after 6–12 months, revealing the base metal (which often tarnishes and irritates sensitive skin).

• Nickel Silver Rings: Misleadingly named—they contain no silver at all. Made of copper, nickel, and zinc, these rings are cheap but prone to tarnishing and causing allergic reactions.

Common Design Features of Sterling Silver for Rings

Sterling Silver for Rings comes in a range of styles, but most share these user-friendly features that enhance their “flattering for every hand” appeal:

• Smooth Finishes: Polished (shiny) or brushed (matte) finishes are most common—both highlight the silver’s bright tone without overwhelming the hand. Brushed finishes, in particular, soften the look, making them ideal for wider knuckles.

• Versatile Band Widths: Available in thin (1–2mm) for delicate hands, medium (2–3mm) for average hands, and wide (3–4mm) for larger hands. This variety ensures the ring proportions match the hand, avoiding a “lost” or “bulky” look.

• Adjustable or Standard Sizing: Most styles are available in standard ring sizes (US 4–13) or feature adjustable bands (e.g., open-design rings with a hinge) to fit different finger circumferences—ensuring a comfortable, flattering fit for everyone.

Why is Sterling Silver for Rings so popular

“Flattering for Every Hand” Core Appeal

The top reason Sterling Silver for Rings is popular is its universal ability to complement all hand shapes and sizes:

• Short Fingers: Thin or medium-width sterling silver rings (1–2mm) with vertical designs (e.g., oval gemstone settings) elongate the finger, creating the illusion of length. Avoid wide bands, which make fingers look shorter.

• Wide Fingers: Medium-width bands (2–3mm) or stacked thin bands balance width without overwhelming. The silver’s bright tone draws attention away from width and toward the ring’s shine.

• Knobby Knuckles: Smooth, low-profile sterling silver rings (e.g., bezel-set gemstones or plain bands) slide over knuckles easily and don’t catch on skin. The neutral tone softens the appearance of larger knuckles.

• Delicate Hands: Tiny sterling silver studs or thin bands add subtle elegance without overpowering small hands. Brushed finishes add texture without making the ring look too heavy.

Cool Tone That Complements All Skin Undertones

Sterling Silver for Rings has a bright, cool tone that flatters nearly every skin undertone—unlike gold (which favors warm skin) or rose gold (which leans pink):

• Warm Skin Tones (Olive, Tan, Deep): The cool silver balances warmth, creating a striking contrast. A polished sterling silver ring, for example, pops against olive skin without clashing.

• Cool Skin Tones (Fair, Pink, Porcelain): The silver’s brightness enhances cool undertones, giving the skin a fresh, radiant look. A brushed sterling silver ring looks crisp against fair skin.

• Neutral Skin Tones: Sterling silver works seamlessly—pair it with other metals (gold, rose gold) for a mixed-metal look that feels personalized and trendy.

Durability for Daily Wear

Sterling Silver for Rings is built to withstand the demands of everyday life—no fragile components to worry about:

• Scratch Resistance: The 92.5% silver-copper alloy resists scratches from typing, opening doors, or carrying bags. Even with daily wear, the ring retains its smooth finish.

• Tarnish Resistance (With Care): While all silver can tarnish (a natural reaction to air and moisture), sterling silver tarnishes slower than pure silver. A quick clean every few weeks restores its shine—unlike silver-plated rings, which can’t be revived once plating wears off.

• Hypoallergenic Option: Most sterling silver rings are nickel-free (using copper instead of nickel as the alloy), making them safe for sensitive skin. Over 95% of people with skin sensitivities can wear nickel-free sterling silver without irritation.

Affordable Luxury

Sterling Silver for Rings offers the look of luxury without the high price tag:

• Budget-Friendly: Plain sterling silver bands start at \(30–\)50; styles with small gemstones (birthstones, cubic zirconia) cost \(50–\)150. This is far more affordable than gold rings (14k gold styles start at $150+) but still feels high-quality.

• Value for Money: Unlike disposable fashion rings (which last a few months), a well-cared-for sterling silver ring lasts 10–50 years—making it a better long-term investment.

Popular styles of Sterling Silver for Rings

Sterling Silver Solitaire Ring (Minimalist Elegance)

• Design: A single gemstone (cubic zirconia, birthstone, or small diamond) set in a thin sterling silver band (1–2mm). The gemstone is held in a prong or bezel setting to maximize sparkle.

• Why It’s Popular: Flattering for all hand shapes— the vertical gemstone elongates short fingers, while the thin band complements wide fingers. It’s versatile enough for daily wear or special events.

• Best For: Proposals, everyday wear, or anyone who loves minimalist glamour. Prices: \(50 (CZ)–\)200 (birthstone/diamond).

Sterling Silver Stackable Ring Set (Flexible Style)

• Design: 2–3 thin sterling silver bands (1mm each) with subtle details—engravings, tiny beads, or enamel accents. They can be worn together as a set or mixed with other rings.

• Why It’s Popular: Customizable to hand size—wear 1 band for delicate hands, 3 bands for larger hands. The layered look adds depth without overwhelming the hand.

• Best For: Everyday wear, work, or anyone who loves flexible styling. Prices: \(40–\)100 (set of 3).

Sterling Silver Birthstone Ring (Sentimental Charm)

• Design: A sterling silver band with one or more birthstones (corresponding to a birthday, anniversary, or family member’s birth month). Stones are set in a row or cluster for a personalized look.

• Why It’s Popular: Deeply personal and flattering— the colored gemstones add a pop of color that complements the silver’s brightness. The medium band width (2mm) fits most hand shapes.

• Best For: Birthdays, Mother’s Day, or sentimental gifts. Prices: \(60–\)180 (1–3 birthstones).

Sterling Silver Statement Ring (Bold Glamour)

• Design: A wide sterling silver band (3–4mm) with intricate details—filigree patterns, large gemstones, or enamel designs. The band is often slightly curved to fit the finger comfortably.

• Why It’s Popular: Makes a statement without being bulky. The wide band balances larger hands, while the bold design draws attention to the ring (not hand size).

• Best For: Formal events, date nights, or anyone who loves bold style. Prices: \(80–\)250.

How to wear Sterling Silver for Rings

Pairing with Outfits (By Occasion)

• Everyday Casual:

• Outfit: High-waisted light blue jeans, a white cropped cotton tee, and white sneakers.

• Sterling Silver for Rings: A thin stackable ring set (2 bands) on the index finger. The subtle silver adds polish to the casual look without clashing.

• Work/Professional:

• Outfit: A navy blazer, a light blue button-down shirt, and tailored black trousers.

• Sterling Silver for Rings: A small solitaire ring (CZ) on the ring finger. The minimalist design feels polished, and it won’t distract during meetings.

• Date Night:

• Outfit: A black slip dress, strappy silver heels, and a small clutch.

• Sterling Silver for Rings: A statement ring with a large blue sapphire (or CZ) on the middle finger. The bold design adds glamour, and the silver complements the dress.

• Formal Event (Wedding/Gala):

• Outfit: A floor-length emerald green gown or a silver sequined dress.

• Sterling Silver for Rings: A birthstone ring (matching the gown’s color) on the ring finger. The gemstone adds elegance, and the silver balances the gown’s sparkle.

Styling for Different Hand Shapes (Pro Tips)

Maximize the “flattering for every hand” appeal with these shape-specific tips:

• Short Fingers:

• Choose thin bands (1–2mm) with vertical gemstones (oval, marquise) to elongate.

• Avoid wide bands (over 3mm) or large round gemstones—they make fingers look shorter.

• Wear rings on the index or middle finger (longer fingers) for added length.

• Wide Fingers:

• Opt for medium-width bands (2–3mm) or stacked thin bands—they balance width without overwhelming.

• Avoid tiny bands (under 1mm)—they look lost on wide fingers.

• Choose bezel-set gemstones (smooth edges) over prong-set (sharp edges) to soften the look.

• Delicate Hands:

• Stick to thin bands (1mm) or small solitaire rings—they add elegance without feeling heavy.

• Avoid wide statement rings—they overpower small hands.

• Wear 1–2 rings per hand (e.g., ring finger + middle finger) for a subtle look.

• Hands with Large Knuckles:

• Select rings with a slightly larger size (½ size up) to slide over knuckles easily.

• Choose low-profile styles (plain bands, bezel-set gemstones) that don’t catch on knuckles.

• Avoid rings with sharp edges or protruding gemstones—they can get stuck on knuckles.

Tips for Stacking Sterling Silver for Rings

Stacking is a trendy way to wear Sterling Silver for Rings—follow these rules to keep the look flattering:

• Mix Band Widths: Pair a thin band (1mm) with a medium band (2mm) and a slightly thicker band (3mm). This creates a balanced “staggered” look that fits all hand sizes.

• Add 1 Pop of Color: Mix in one ring with a colored gemstone (e.g., a sterling silver birthstone ring) to brighten the stack. Too many colors will feel disjointed.

• Limit to 3–4 Rings Per Hand: More than 4 rings look cluttered, especially on smaller hands. Focus on 1–2 fingers (e.g., ring finger + middle finger) instead of spreading them across all fingers.

• Match Finishes: Stick to one finish (all polished or all brushed) for a cohesive look. Mixed finishes can feel messy on delicate hands.

Sterling Silver for Rings: perfect gift for your girlfriend

Symbolizes Thoughtfulness and Long-Lasting Love

Sterling Silver for Rings is a perfect gift for your girlfriend because it carries emotional weight—more than a sweater or a bag, it’s a tangible reminder of your affection:

• “Timeless” Symbolism: The durability of sterling silver mirrors the longevity of your relationship. Every time she wears the ring, she’ll think of your bond—whether you’re together or apart.

• Thoughtful Personalization: Choose a style that fits her taste—minimalist solitaire if she loves simplicity, birthstone ring if she’s sentimental, stackable set if she’s trendy. This shows you pay attention to her preferences.

• Daily Reminder: Unlike gifts that are used occasionally (e.g., a vacation), she’ll wear the ring daily—keeping your love close, even on busy days.

Fits Her Hand and Style (No Matter What She Loves)

With so many styles of Sterling Silver for Rings, you can find one that matches her hand shape and aesthetic:

• Minimalist Girlfriend (Delicate Hands): A thin polished solitaire ring (1mm band, small CZ). Simple, elegant, and fits her “less is more” vibe.

• Sentimental Girlfriend (Average Hands): A birthstone ring with her birthstone and yours. The medium band (2mm) fits comfortably, and the personalized touch feels special.

• Trendy Girlfriend (Wide Hands): A stackable ring set (3 thin bands with engravings). She can mix and match, and the layered look balances her hand size.

• Glamorous Girlfriend (Large Hands): A statement ring with a large cubic zirconia. The wide band (3mm) fits her hand, and the bold design matches her style.

Durable for Her Busy Life

Girlfriends are busy—working, studying, traveling, hanging out—and a Sterling Silver for Ring is tough enough to keep up:

• No Delicate Care Needed: She can wear it while cooking, typing, or going to the gym (just remove it for swimming or gardening). It won’t scratch, bend, or tarnish easily.

• Comfortable for All-Day Wear: Thin and medium bands are lightweight—she’ll barely notice it on her finger, even after hours of wear. No heavy statement rings that cause finger fatigue.

• Low-Maintenance: It only needs a quick clean every few weeks to stay shiny. No frequent polishing like pure silver or delicate care like pearl jewelry.

Celebrates Relationship Milestones

Sterling Silver for Rings is ideal for marking key moments with your girlfriend:

• Birthday: A birthstone ring with her birthstone (e.g., garnet for January, diamond for April). Pair it with a handwritten note explaining why you chose it.

• Anniversary: A personalized ring with your anniversary date engraved on the inner band. For milestone anniversaries (1st, 3rd), upgrade to a style with a small diamond.

• Promotion/Graduation: A sleek stackable ring set—something she’ll feel confident wearing to her new job or graduation ceremony.

How to clean Sterling Silver for Rings

Keeping your Sterling Silver for Rings shiny is easy—follow these steps to prevent tarnish and maintain its flattering glow:

Supplies Needed (Gentle and Effective)

Avoid harsh chemicals (they can damage silver or gemstones)—use these mild supplies:

• Mild dish soap (unscented, dye-free—no bleach, ammonia, or citrus, which erode silver).

• Lukewarm water (not hot—hot water can loosen gemstone settings or damage enamel).

• Soft-bristled toothbrush (unused, extra-soft—hard bristles scratch silver).

• Lint-free cloth (microfiber or cotton—paper towels leave scratches).

• Silver polishing cloth (optional—for tarnished silver; look for “non-abrasive” labels to avoid scratching the ring’s surface).

• Baking soda (optional): For tough tarnish—mix with water to create a gentle cleaning paste (avoid using on gemstone or enamel accents).

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Basic Weekly Cleaning (3–5 Minutes):

• Mix 1 drop of mild dish soap with 1 cup of lukewarm water in a small bowl. Stir gently to create suds—avoid heavy bubbles, which can leave residue in gemstone settings.

• Submerge the Sterling Silver for Ring and soak for 5 minutes. This loosens everyday grime (skin oils, lotion, food particles) that dulls the silver’s brightness.

• For plain bands: Use the soft toothbrush to gently scrub the inner and outer surfaces of the band—focus on the inner band, where dirt and oils build up most.

• For gemstone rings: Scrub around the gemstone setting (prongs or bezel) with the toothbrush’s tip—avoid directly scrubbing soft stones (e.g., opals, pearls) to prevent scratches.

• For stackable rings: Separate the bands and clean each individually to remove trapped dirt between them.

• Rinse the ring thoroughly under lukewarm water. Hold it over a strainer to avoid dropping it down the drain—sterling silver rings are valuable, so extra care here prevents loss.

• Pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Gently press the cloth against the ring to remove excess water (don’t rub vigorously—this can scratch silver or dislodge small gemstones).

2. Deep Cleaning for Tarnished Silver (Monthly):

• Light Tarnish (Faint Dark Spots): Use a non-abrasive silver polishing cloth. Fold the cloth around the ring and rub gently in circular motions—focus on tarnished areas until the silver regains its bright tone. No water needed—polishing cloths are pre-treated with mild cleaners that lift tarnish without damage.

• Heavy Tarnish (Darker Patina): Make a paste with 1 part baking soda + 2 parts lukewarm water (mix until it’s thick enough to stick to the silver). Apply a small amount to the ring with a soft cloth, let it sit for 2 minutes (don’t leave it longer—baking soda is slightly abrasive), then gently scrub with the toothbrush. Rinse immediately under lukewarm water and pat dry—this removes tough tarnish without scratching the silver.

• Gemstone-Accented Rings: Skip baking soda (it can scratch soft gemstones like pearls or turquoise). For hard gemstones (diamonds, sapphires), wipe the silver parts with a polishing cloth; for the gemstones, use a damp cloth dipped in soapy water to remove dirt—dry immediately to prevent water spots.

• Enamel-Accented Rings: Avoid polishing cloths (they scratch enamel). Wipe the silver parts with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dry the enamel with a separate clean cloth to prevent discoloration.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Tarnish

• Store Properly: When not wearing the Sterling Silver for Ring (e.g., at night, during swimming), keep it in an airtight jewelry pouch or a lined ring box. Add a silica gel packet to the pouch/box—this absorbs excess moisture (the main cause of tarnish). For stackable rings, store each band separately to avoid scratching.

• Wear It Often: Surprisingly, wearing your sterling silver ring regularly slows tarnish—your skin’s natural oils create a thin, protective layer on the silver. The more you wear it, the less you’ll need to clean it!

• Remove Before High-Risk Activities: Take off the ring before swimming (chlorine erodes silver), gardening (dirt scratches surfaces), cooking (oils and spices build up), or applying beauty products (perfume, hairspray, lotion leave a sticky film that traps grime).

• Avoid Humid Environments: Don’t store the ring in bathrooms or near windows—humidity and sunlight speed up tarnishing. Keep it in a cool, dry place (e.g., a bedroom drawer) for long-term storage.

Frequently asked questions about Sterling Silver for Rings

Will a Sterling Silver for Ring turn my finger green?

Rarely—only if it contains nickel or if the silver is not genuine:

• Genuine Sterling Silver (925): No—pure silver and copper (the main alloy) don’t react with skin to cause green discoloration. Any green tint on your finger is likely from lotion, perfume, or sweat mixing with the silver (it wipes off easily with soap and water).

• Nickel-Containing Sterling Silver: Yes—some budget brands cut costs by adding nickel to the alloy (instead of copper). Nickel reacts with sweat to form green salts, causing irritation. To avoid this, always choose “nickel-free” Sterling Silver for Rings (look for the label or ask the seller).

• Silver-Plated Rings (Mistaken for Sterling): Yes—when the thin silver layer wears off, the base metal (brass, nickel) underneath reacts with skin, leaving a green mark. This is a sign the ring is not genuine sterling silver.

Can I wear a Sterling Silver for Ring in the shower?

No—shower water damages sterling silver over time:

• Moisture Causes Tarnish: Hot, humid shower air and water speed up tarnishing—even a few minutes of exposure can leave faint dark spots on the silver.

• Soap and Shampoo Residue: Body wash and shampoo leave a sticky film on the ring, which traps dirt and makes the silver look dull. Over time, this residue can build up and be harder to clean.

• Gemstone Damage: For rings with gemstones, shower water can seep into settings and loosen stones—especially if the ring has a prong setting.

Remove your Sterling Silver for Ring before showering, and store it in a dry place until you’re done.

How long does a Sterling Silver for Ring last?

With proper care, a genuine Sterling Silver for Ring lasts 10–50 years—many become family heirlooms:

• Daily Wear Rings (Stackable, Solitaire): 10–20 years. You may need to polish them monthly, but the silver itself won’t wear out. For rings with gemstones, the setting may need occasional tightening (costs \(15–\)30 at jewelers).

• Occasional Wear Rings (Statement, Birthstone): 30–50 years. Less frequent use means less wear—these rings stay in excellent condition with minimal cleaning.

• Key to Longevity: Avoid harsh chemicals, store properly, and clean regularly—this extends the ring’s life significantly.

How do I know if a Sterling Silver for Ring is real (vs. fake)?

Check for these 3 simple signs of authenticity:

1. The “925” Stamp: Look for “925,” “STER,” or “STERLING” engraved on the inner band. Genuine sterling silver must be stamped by law to confirm its 92.5% purity. Fake silver often has no stamp, a blurry stamp, or a stamp that rubs off with a cloth.

2. Magnet Test: Silver is not magnetic—hold a magnet near the ring. If it sticks, the ring is fake (likely silver-plated iron or nickel). If it doesn’t stick, it’s a good sign it’s genuine (though some genuine silver-plated pieces may also not stick—so combine this with the stamp check).

3. Tarnish Test: Rub a small, hidden part of the ring with a damp white cloth. Genuine sterling silver will leave a faint black mark on the cloth (this is tarnish); fake silver (or silver-plated) will leave no mark or a discolored streak (from the base metal).

Can a broken Sterling Silver for Ring be repaired?

Yes—most jewelers can fix common issues like bent bands, loose gemstones, or broken prongs:

• Bent Bands: Jewelers can straighten bent sterling silver bands (costs \(15–\)30) or reshape them if the bend is severe. For thin bands (1mm), they may reinforce the metal to prevent future bending.

• Loose Gemstones: Prongs can be tightened (costs \(20–\)40) to secure loose gemstones. If a prong is broken, it can be replaced with a new one—this prevents the gemstone from falling out.

• Broken Prongs/settings: Damaged settings can be repaired or replaced—costs vary by complexity (simple prong repair: \(20–\)50; full setting replacement: \(50–\)100).

• Tip: Choose a jeweler who specializes in silver jewelry—they have the right tools to repair sterling silver without damaging its bright tone.

Is a Sterling Silver for Ring a good gift for someone with sensitive skin?

Yes—sterling silver is one of the best jewelry choices for sensitive skin, as long as you pick the right type:

• Nickel-Free Sterling Silver: Opt for rings labeled “nickel-free”—these use zinc or palladium instead of nickel in the alloy, making them hypoallergenic. 95% of people with sensitive skin can wear nickel-free sterling silver without irritation.

• Avoid “Sterling Silver Plated”: Plated rings expose base metals over time, which often contain nickel. Stick to solid sterling silver (925) for sensitive skin.

• Test It First: If you’re unsure, buy a small, affordable sterling silver band first—have your girlfriend wear it for a day. If no redness or itching occurs, a more detailed style (like a birthstone ring) will be safe.

Conclusion: Sterling Silver for Rings – Flattering for Every Hand

Sterling Silver for Rings is more than just a piece of jewelry—it’s a universally flattering accessory that adapts to every hand shape, skin tone, and style. Its 92.5% silver composition ensures durability for daily wear, while its bright, neutral tone balances warmth and coolness, making it a perfect fit for anyone. Whether you’re gifting a minimalist solitaire to your girlfriend, a stackable set for yourself, or a sentimental birthstone ring for a loved one, it’s a piece that feels personal, timeless, and effortlessly elegant.

As a gift, it’s a thoughtful way to honor your girlfriend’s unique hand shape and style—durable enough for her busy life, low-maintenance for everyday wear, and meaningful enough to remind her of you every time she looks at her finger. And with simple care—gentle cleaning, proper storage, and avoiding harsh chemicals—your Sterling Silver for Ring will stay shiny and flattering for years.

Ready to find the perfect Sterling Silver for Ring that fits your hand (or your girlfriend’s) like a glove? Explore our curated collection today, featuring:

• Everyday Essentials: Thin stackable bands (1mm) and small solitaire rings (CZ or birthstone) – \(30–\)100, perfect for daily wear.

• Sentimental Gifts: Birthstone rings (1–3 stones) and personalized engraved bands – \(60–\)180, ideal for birthdays or anniversaries.

• Bold Styles: Wide statement rings (3–4mm) with enamel or large gemstones – \(80–\)250, great for formal events or date nights.

All orders include free shipping on purchases over $50, a 30-day return policy, and a free silver polishing cloth to keep your ring shiny. For a limited time, get a free personalized engraving (up to 15 characters) on any Sterling Silver for Ring—add your girlfriend’s initials, your anniversary date, or a sweet quote to make it even more special.

Don’t wait to embrace the flattering charm of Sterling Silver for Rings. Shop our collection now and discover how a simple silver ring can elevate your look—no matter the shape of your hand.