How to Measure Your Bracelet Size + Size Chart

A bracelet that does not fit either spins around and slides about, or pinches your wrist. In this guide you will learn how to measure your wrist, how much room each type of bracelet needs, and how to find your size in the chart.

Why does bracelet size matter?

A bracelet should be comfortable and stay on securely. One that is too loose can snag or get lost, while one that is too tight is uncomfortable and puts stress on the clasp and links. Most bracelets cannot be resized the way rings can, so it is best to measure carefully from the start.

How to measure your wrist

1. Take a soft tailor's measuring tape or a thin piece of string.

2. Wrap it around the widest part of your wrist, around the wrist bone. The tape should be neither loose nor tight.

3. If you are using string, mark the point where the two ends meet with a pen. If you plan to wear a stack, measure where each bracelet will sit.

4. Lay the string flat and measure its length up to the mark in centimeters with a ruler. This number is your wrist circumference.

5. Find that number in the chart below. If you fall between two sizes, choose the larger one.

Bracelet size chart

The "suggested length" column is for chain and charm bracelets and is your wrist circumference plus 1.5 to 2 cm of comfortable room. If you prefer a looser fit, add a few more millimeters.

How much room does each type need?

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• Chain and link bracelets: wear them slightly loose so they can move. Your wrist circumference plus 1.5 to 2 cm usually works well.

• Bangles and cuffs: they should fit snugly but not be too loose. For a solid bangle, the size of your hand at its widest point matters, because the bangle has to slide over it. Measure your hand around the knuckles with your thumb tucked in.

• Tennis and stone-set bracelets: wear them close to the wrist but slightly loose so the stones stay facing up.

• Charm and pendant bracelets: allow a little extra room, since the weight of the charms pulls the bracelet down your wrist.

Professional tips for accurate measuring

• If you wear the bracelet next to a watch, measure at that spot and allow a little extra room.

• Your dominant wrist is usually slightly thicker. Measure the wrist you will wear it on.

• Avoid stretchy or very soft string, as it gives inaccurate numbers.

• Measure at two or three different times. Your wrist can swell slightly in warm weather or after exercise.

• For a gift, lay one of their bracelets out in a circle and measure its inner length.

If you are between two sizes, always choose the larger one. A slightly loose bracelet is easier to adjust than a tight one.

Frequently asked questions

How loose should a bracelet be?

For a chain bracelet, you should be able to slide one finger comfortably between the bracelet and your wrist. Bangles and cuffs should sit more firmly without squeezing your wrist.

Is wrist size different from bracelet length?

Yes. Wrist circumference is the measurement of your wrist itself, and the bracelet needs to be slightly longer because it wraps around the wrist and the clasp takes up some length.

Can a bracelet be made larger later?

Chain bracelets can usually be enlarged by adding links or an extension chain. Solid bangles and cuffs can hardly be resized, so take extra care when choosing them.

If you are unsure about choosing a size or designing a custom bracelet, get in touch with Aurel Studio and we will be happy to guide you.

You may also like our guides: to find your ring size, read this article, and to choose the right necklace length, read this article.