To find out what size of a bangle bracelet you need, you simply measure the widest distance between your index and little finger knuckle. This distance is the same as a diameter of a bangle bracelet that would fit you well.
There is no opening or clasp in a bangle, meaning that you need to size it well for it to go through your hand.
Since you put it on through the palm of your hand, you need to consider the width of your hand rather than relying on the size of your wrist itself.
The average size of a bangle bracelet is considered to be between 8 and 8,5 inches in circumference.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to measure the right size for a bangle bracelet.
1. Mark the spots on your hand
Identify the widest part of your hand where the bangle would go through. Mark spots on your index and little finger knuckles with a marker or a pen to make the spots visible enough for the measurement.
Since a bangle bracelet typically has no clasp or opening, you need to consider the width of your hand rather than the size of your wrist.
Your bangle bracelet needs to be wide enough in diameter to be able to go through your hand and end up on your wrist.
2. Measure the distance between the spots
Measure the distance between the spots you just marked on the knuckles of your index and little finger with a ruler or any other measuring instrument.
This is the most accurate way to measure the diameter of the bangle bracelet because it accounts for the size of your hand through which you need to put the bangle bracelet on.
Make sure to put your hand on a flat surface and do not clench your fist as that could potentially lead to an incorrect measurement as you would slightly alter the distance between the knuckles by bending the surface.
3. Consider adjusting the measurements
When you measure the distance between the knuckles, consider adding 2cm to the measurements you take for more comfort.
Since a bangle bracelet traditionally does not have an opening or a clasp that you can extend as you wish, it is necessary to be extra sure about the size of the bracelet you will order.
To do this, take into account the extent to which you can stretch the bangle bracelet. This will depend on the elasticity of the material the bracelet is made from and the thickness of the bracelet itself.
For example, a thinner bracelet will be much more elastic than a thicker one.
The same goes for the material. A bracelet made of a certain material, like leather, is more elastic than a gold or silver bracelet.
Even among metals, certain metals are more elastic than others. A perfect example would be copper and silver. Copper may be more flexible than silver in this case.
When you measure the distance between your index and little finger knuckles, it is always better to add a little extra just to be sure.
It is better to do so in advance rather than have to return the bracelet.
4. Refer to the standard charts for size
Once you measure your hand’s widest area, refer to the standard size charts to understand what bangle bracelet size to order.
To find out what would be your standard size of a bangle bracelet, add half an inch to 1 inch to your measurements and look for your size in the following chart.
Bangle bracelet size chart
Other ways to measure your bangle bracelet size
Here are some other methods to measure your bangle bracelet size.
These methods will help you find your minimum recommended bangle bracelet circumference. You can refer to the standard chart size above to determine your ideal bangle bracelet size.
Paper strip method
You will need a strip of paper, a ruler, and a marker or a pen for this method.
If you have a measuring tape, use the measuring tape method instead.
- Put your hand into a position as though you want to put on a bangle bracelet.
- Keeping your hand in this position, where all of your fingers are touching, wrap the paper strip around the widest area of your hand. This way, you can ensure that the measurement will be wide enough to represent the circumference of a bangle bracelet which you can put on quite comfortably.
- Mark the spot where the end of the paper strip meets the rest of the paper with a marker or a pen.
- Then measure the distance from one end of the paper strip to the marked spot with a ruler while ensuring the strip is on a flat surface.
This is your minimum recommended bangle bracelet circumference. You can add about an inch to the measurement to ensure your bracelet goes through comfortably.
Refer to the standard chart size above to find out your bangle bracelet size.
Measurement tape method
This method is very similar to the paper strip method, only requiring a measuring tape.
Put your hand in a position as though you would want to put on an actual bangle bracelet.
Then, wrap your measuring tape around the widest area of your hand. Read the distance shown by the measuring tape. The distance is your circumference. You can add 2cm or so to this circumference.
Measuring the diameter of a bangle bracelet you already own
Another good way of measuring the size of a bangle bracelet is to measure the diameter of a bangle bracelet you already own.
Simply take any measuring instrument, like a ruler or a measuring tape, and measure the diameter of the bracelet.
Since you already know this bracelet size works for you, you can safely assume that this measurement is accurate.
Conclusion
You can find out the size of your ideal bangle bracelet by measuring the widest distance between your index and little finger knuckle. This distance is the same as a diameter of a bangle bracelet that would fit you well. Consider adding 2cm or more depending on the comfort you want.
You can also find out your ideal bracelet circumference using a paper strip or measuring tape. You simply pose your hand as if ready to wear a bangle and wrap the paper strip around the widest area. Add an inch or less to this circumference for extra caution.
Alternatively, measure the diameter of a bangle bracelet you already own.
Now that you know your ideal size for a bangle bracelet, you can order a custom-made bangle on Jewelers Connect.
On Jewelers Connect, you pick your preferred:
- Length (this is the circumference of the bracelet)
- Size (this is the width of the bracelet – how thick it is)
- Material
Create your free shopper account to have a piece made just for you.