Whether you’re shopping for a delicate tennis bracelet, a bold cuff, or a sleek, elegant bangle, you’ll want to make sure it fits comfortably – otherwise, you probably won’t be wearing it much. Use our step-by-step guide to measure your bracelet size at home so that you can shop for bracelets that fit just right—not too tight not too loose—and are a joy to wear.
Standard bracelet sizes explained
When shopping for a bracelet online, some sellers may provide a measurement in inches, millimeters, or centimeters while others will provide a comprehensive size guide that lists wrist measurement (in inches, usually) with a corresponding size: X-small, small, medium, large, X-large, etc. A seven-inch bracelet is considered standard; some seven-inch clasp bracelets will be adjustable to three-quarters or half a size smaller.
How to measure your bracelet size – the essential tools
Do you know the type of bracelet you want? A bracelet that secures with a clasp, for example, will fit more snugly than a bracelet you slide on, such as a bangle. And before you roll up your sleeves and start measuring, you’ll need to gather a few tools:
- soft measuring tape (the one that looks like a ribbon) or a string
- ruler (if using a string)
- pen or pencil (to record your measurements)
- one or two bracelets from your existing jewelry collection (optional; more on that below)
How to measure a clasp bracelet you already own
Already have a clasp-style bracelet in your jewelry collection that fits well but you don’t know its exact size? Measure it to find out! Simply unhook the clasp of the bracelet and lay it outstretched on a flat surface. With a ruler or tape measure, measure the length from one end to the other. Then compare that measurement to the seller’s bracelet size guide and add it to the cart accordingly.
How to measure a bangle you already own
Place a straight ruler over the bangle and measure across its middle from one inner edge to the other. The measurement in inches/cm/mm will give you the correct size of the bangle’s internal diameter. Then, refer to the seller’s bangle sizing chart to find the corresponding bangle size.
Some sellers will list bangle sizes as the inner circumference of the bangle, while others will list the size as the inner diameter of the bangle. If you need the circumference measurement, multiply the diameter by 3.14 (a.k.a. pi, the ratio of the circumference of any circle to the diameter of that circle).
How to measure wrist circumference for a clasp-style bracelet, cuff, hinged or open bangle
To measure for a clasp bracelet, link bracelet, cuff, or any style that opens and does not need to slide over your entire hand for wear, you’ll need to measure the circumference of your wrist. Use the instructions below to get an accurate measurement.
- Wrap a soft measuring tape or piece of string snugly around the broadest part of your wrist (between the wrist bone and the base of your hand). Be careful not to pull too tight or leave it too loose.
- If you’re using a measuring tape, note where the ends overlap.
- If you’re using a piece of string, mark the spot where the two ends overlap with a pen or pencil. Then, measure that section of string against a ruler or tape measure.
How to convert wrist measurements into bracelet sizes
To determine the best bracelet size for your wrist, use the following formulas:
- For a snug fit (won’t move much) add ¼ (0.25) to ½ (0.5) inch to the measurement.
- For a comfortable fit (will move but not drape down past your wrist), add ¾ (0.75) to 1 inch to the measurement.
- For a loose fit (will drape down your hand a bit) add 1 to ¼ inch (.25) to the measurement.
How to measure for a bangle
When it comes to measuring for a bangle or other non-adjustable bracelet, it's the size of your knuckles—not your wrist!—that determines your bangle size.
To help you choose the perfect bangle size, follow the instructions below:
- Fold your fingers together, tucking your thumb inward towards your palm making sure it touches the base of your pinky finger.
- Wrap a measuring tape or piece of string around the widest part of your hand (base of your knuckles) and mark where the two ends overlap. If using a piece of string, lay it out on a flat surface and use a ruler to measure the length up to the mark. This is your circumference measurement.
- Refer to the seller’s bangle sizing chart to find the corresponding bangle size and add it to the cart accordingly.
If the seller lists bangle size according to its inner diameter, you’ll need to do a little math: Just divide your hand circumference by 3.14 (a.k.a. pi, the ratio of the circumference of any circle to the diameter of that circle).
Having a bracelet that fits properly is a must—you won’t wear it otherwise! And if it’s too big it could slip off your wrist. Once you land on the correct size and purchase a bracelet accordingly, the next step is to protect your investment by obtaining personal jewelry insurance through Jewelers Mutual. It’s an affordable option that covers loss, damage, and mysterious disappearances. You can receive a jewelry insurance quote in just 30 seconds by clicking the button below.
