The length of a necklace drastically affects how it looks when you wear it. Always pay attention to necklace length when you're purchasing jewelry, and be aware of how different necklace lengths look on you.
Most pendants can be switched to longer or shorter chains, but don't assume this is going to be easy unless you get a good look at both the pendant loop or jump ring connecting the pendant to the chain and the size of the clasp. Some small pendant loops/jump rings and/or large clasps require pliers to manage a chain switch. (I'll post a tutorial about that soon.)
For non-pendant style necklaces, sizability is variable. If you see links, your chances are good. Take it to a jeweler, unless you're very confident in your ability to alter it yourself.
Always know your ring size.
Here are several ways to determine your ring size at home it. (You should also be able to get sized at any jewelry store.) Remember that your fingers are different sizes - a basic tip, but it's good to remember that you probably have small range of sizes to choose from.
Some rings can be resized, but not all - it varies based on delicacy, material, and design. Never assume a ring is resizable until a jeweler takes a look at it.
(Please note: It's rare to see bracelets sized as S, M, L, and such a thing would definitely vary by maker. The above image is included for hilarity only. )
A standard women's bracelet is 7-8 inches. Personally, I have tiny wrists. I would lose an 8 inch bracelet in less than a minute, and with a 7 inch one I have to be careful not to make extravagant hand gestures.
Know your wrist circumference, and know what size of bracelet you prefer. Measure your favorite bracelet or use a piece of string to measure the size you'd like your bracelets to be, and then remember that number. You can also use
these printable rulers to do the same thing.
Remember the bracelet needs to both fit over the widest part of your hand (unless it has a clasp) and stay on your wrist once it's there. Most link bracelets can be resized, at least to some degree, but most bangles can't.
As for earrings, just pay attention to the details. Always take note of how large and long the earrings are. Are they 5 inches long? Measure that out with a piece of paper and hold it up to your ear. If that's not what you want, then don't buy them.
Also always be sure to take note of what kind of backings the earrings have. Are you okay with hooks/studs/screwbacks/clip-ons? Some earring backings can be changed, but not all.
(Image source. If you appreciate this reference, let me know so that we can be friends.)
Brooches have pretty much the same guidelines as earrings - look for measurements and, if you can't picture it, make a piece of paper the size of the jewelry you're considering buying. That can help make it real enough for you to tell if it's the size you want, too small, or too big.
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