Bracelet Size Guide

Bracelets are generally a type of jewelry where size doesn't matter as much. For women, the industry standard bracelet diameter is 7 inches; for men, the standard is 8 inches. Some types of bracelets have clasps that allow the wearer to adjust the size. Other bracelets have links that can be removed by a jeweler to reduce the size. Simply put, most manufactured bracelets are designed so that most people can wear them.

As with just about every rule, there are exceptions. Obviously, wrist size varies and not everyone is "standard" size. Bracelet style selection is an excellent way to allow for simple size adjustments. If a wearer's wrist is too small to wear a bracelet as manufactured, selecting a bracelet with links is a good option. Jewelers can easily remove links to shorten the length. (Note: It's always a good idea to keep the extra links in case the bracelet is eventually passed on to an individual with a larger wrist or backup links are needed in the event repairs are necessary.) For individuals with larger wrists, some manufacturers offer bracelets in multiple sizes. Other manufacturers customize bracelets according to size requirements. Before ordering a custom piece, it is a good idea to have the wearer try the bracelet on because in many cases, wrists at or within 3 inches less than the standard bracelet diameter will fit most standard bracelets.

Ordering Custom Sized Bracelets

If you have a specific bracelet or bracelet style in mind and customization is necessary, several steps need to be taken. First, contact REEDS via telephone, email, live chat or in store and specify your special requirements in regards to bracelet size and style. We'll check with the manufacturer and/or expert jewelers regarding not only the availability, but the feasibility of customizing a particular bracelet in the desired size. If the bracelet can be customized, we'll provide you with a quote and timeframe for completion. Please note that custom orders take time, not only to obtain quotes, but for the customized construction. Custom bracelets cost more than their standard equivalents not only due to the custom work required but also for any additional materials needed, such as extra metal or gemstones. Other factors effecting costs include restructuring the original design to allow for the size adjustments.

Prior to placing an order, it's vitally important to correctly size the wearer's wrist. Measurements may be taken by REEDS in-store professionals or at home utilizing a standard measuring tape or our printable REEDS Jewelry Measurer. (TM)* If you do not have a soft measuring tape, wrap a ribbon around the wrist at the wrist bone, mark the spot where the ends meet, then lay the ribbon against a yardstick or ruler to determine approximate wrist size. Note that certain styles of bracelets without clasps, including bangles, must fit over the widest part of the hand, and you should measure at that part of the hand accordingly.

If you do not have a measuring tape handy, we have provided a printable version: Reeds Jewelry Measurer ™

*NOTE: To view REEDs Jewelry Measurer, Adobe Acrobat reader must be installed on your computer. If you do not have this program, go to Adobe's website and follow the instructions for your computer, platform and language for a free, safe installation.

To use REEDS Jewelry Measurer, you'll need to follow these directions. Before printing, set print options at 100% normal size, with no Shrinking or Expanding to fit the page. Since screen resolution and printer settings vary for every user, these measurements are only approximate. Cut the tool out and tape it together to form a measuring tape. Wrap the tape around the wearer's wrist at the wrist bone and mark the spot where the ends meet to obtain an approximate wrist measurement. See graphic for illustration.

Note that certain styles of bracelets without clasps must fit over the widest part of the hand, and you should measure at that part of the hand accordingly. To get the perfect fit, measure your wrist at the wrist bone. See graphic for illustration.

After obtaining a measurement of the basic wrist diameter, add 3/4" to 1" to that measurement to allow for movement and flexibility. This total measurement should be within the size range of the bracelet. Keep in mind that bracelet style effects fit. Some styles, depending on the type of clasp, provide extra space. In contrast, large gemstones or other adornments may reduce the room for your wrist.

If you are unsure about wrist size and whether or not a particular bracelet is right for you, please contact a sales associate at your nearest REEDS store or chat with our online representatives via our toll-free number or live chat. We'd be happy to help you select a suitable style of bracelet that meets your specific requirements.