Bracelet & necklace length guide
A bracelet should move but not slide over your hand, and a necklace should sit where it flatters your neckline. A tape measure and two minutes are all you need.
Measuring your wrist
- Wrap a soft tape measure, or a paper strip, around your wrist just below the wrist bone, where a watch would sit.
- Note the measurement in centimetres without pulling it tight.
- Add ease to suit the style you prefer (see the table).
| Fit | Add to wrist | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Snug | +1 cm | Tennis bracelets, fine chains for stacking |
| Comfort | +1.5–2 cm | Most link bracelets, everyday wear |
| Loose | +2.5–3 cm | Charm bracelets and chunky links that need to drape |
As a guide, the average adult woman’s wrist measures 15–16.5 cm, so a 17–18 cm bracelet fits most. Bangles are different: measure around the widest part of your hand with your thumb tucked in, as the bangle has to slide over it.
Necklace lengths explained
| Length | Name | Where it sits |
|---|---|---|
| 35–38 cm (14–15") | Choker | High on the neck. Pairs well with open necklines and strapless tops. |
| 40–42 cm (16") | Collar | On the collarbone. The most popular length for pendants. |
| 45 cm (18") | Princess | Just below the collarbone. Suits crew necks and V-necks. |
| 50–60 cm (20–24") | Matinee | On the upper chest. Works over high necklines. |
| 70–90 cm (28–36") | Opera | Mid-chest. Can be doubled as a choker. |
Layering made simple
Keep about 5 cm between each chain so they sit in separate tiers and do not tangle. A classic three-layer combination is 40, 45 and 50 cm, with the heaviest pendant at the bottom. Read more in our article on how to layer necklaces like a stylist.
Neck size matters
The same 45 cm chain sits higher on a larger neck. If you usually wear shirts with a collar size above 16", go up one length. Adjustable chains with an extra loop at 42 and 45 cm let you change the fit with your outfit. Most of our pendants come with one.
Care advice, personalised. Every piece is different. Add yours to the usgoldapp care planner and get a plan written for its metal, carat and stones in seconds.