NECKLACE AND BRACELET SIZING

When creating each new piece of Southwest Designs Jewelry I try to anticipate the optimal size, or length, for the piece.  For Necklaces I consider a number of factors, including weight, aesthetics, whether the piece has a pendant, and how the Necklace drapes and falls around the neck. Some Necklaces look perfect at 21” while others demand to be longer or shorter. 

Having said that, Necklace length can be a personal preference, and Bracelets present a few additional challenges given the need for them to approximate the circumference of a Client’s wrist. With these things in mind, I’ve included information below that will help you determine if a particular Necklace or Bracelet is the right length or size for you. If you can’t live without that “too small” Bracelet or Necklace “extra two inches,” in most cases I can lengthen (or shorten) pieces for an additional fee. 

NECKLACE SIZING
Southwest Designs Necklaces range in length from 18” to 25-1/2;” some include Pendants that may add another 2”-4” to the overall hanging length.

While I have found these lengths suit most clients, I understand the importance of having a piece look “just right.” If you find a 24” necklace that you’d prefer at 22,” and vice versa, I can often accommodate you. ** Please Contact Us to discuss your request.

** Changes in necklace length of more than 4” -- if feasible -- may require redesign and could be more expensive to execute. In some cases the original stones may not be available, and complementary stones would be used.  All alternations will be discussed with and agreed-to in writing by the Client prior to any work being performed. Please Contact Us for a quote.

To determine if the Necklace length is right for you, compare the stated length to other pieces of jewelry in your possession. Alternatively, measure out a piece of cord approximately 1” longer than the stated Necklace length, and hold it around your neck, ends flush at the back (a Southwest Designs Necklace will have more mass than the cord, so adding 1” is a better representation). If your desired piece has a Pendant, account for that additional 2”-4” in drop.

If Necklace alternations are desired, my standard fees for up to 4” change in length are as follows:

• - Single Strand Necklace - $30 plus net material cost
• - Double Strand Necklace - $45 plus net material cost
• - Triple Strand Necklace - $60 plus net material cost
   

BRACELET SIZING
My current offering of Southwest Designs Bracelets are 7-1/4” to 8-1/4” in length. A good rule of thumb is that the Bracelet should be about 1” longer than the circumference of your wrist.  For a very “chunky” bracelet you might want the difference to be 1-1/4”.

To measure your wrist, place a flexible tape measure just below the wrist bone (where you’d wear your watch).  The tape should fit snugly around your wrist. Note the length, then add 1”-1-1/4” to get your desired Bracelet length. If your wrist measured 6-1/4,” for example, you would want your Bracelet to be at least 7-1/4” to 7-1/2” in length.  Or longer, if you prefer a loose fit. I don’t advise purchasing a Bracelet any smaller than suggested by these guidelines, as it may be difficult to fasten and unfasten the toggle clasp.

If your desired Bracelet is not the size you need, in most cases I can adjust it for you.  I am sometimes limited by having matching stones on hand, but please Contact Us to discuss your options.   My standard alteration fees are:

- Single Strand Bracelet - $15 plus net material cost
- Double Strand Bracelet - $25 plus net material cost
- Triple Strand Bracelet - $35 plus net material cost

Sizing Mishaps
If you followed our sizing instructions, ordered your Bracelet, and found it still didn’t fit, don’t despair.  I’ll find a solution that works for you and that is affordable.  Contact Us to discuss options.

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