Unless you have the tools and the know-how, it's best to ask a jeweller to resize a bracelet that is too big. It usually requires removing links from the chain to ensure a snug fit. And, you'll want to hire a professional so you don't accidentally damage your bracelet.
To shorten an item, the jeweler simply measures how many inches need to be removed from one area of the item. Next, they take out that portion and then reattach the clasp end to the rest of the necklace or bracelet that's been shortened.
The easiest way to make a bracelet smaller is to remove links from a link bracelet. With some bracelets, you can do this yourself. Some bracelets have links that are easy to remove and can be taken out by hand. Others will require you to use wire cutters to cut out the links you need to remove.
There is another option: If the bracelet is overly large, wear it over a sleeve or a glove. A layer of leather or the textured fabric of a sleeve will give the bracelet something to which it might cling, and the resultant closer fit will be much more flattering.
If it's a chain bracelet, they can lengthen or shorten it by removing or adding links and then reconnecting the bracelet using a soldering iron.
Use tape or a rubber band: A simple and temporary solution is to wrap tape or a rubber band around the bracelet to make it fit more tightly. This is a quick fix, but it may not be the most attractive option. Use a jewelry-resizing tool: There are tools available that can be used to resize bracelets.
Use An Earring. Another simple method of shortening a chain necklace without cutting it is to use an earring. Take an earring and put it through two of the links on opposite ends of your chain necklace. Once done, close the earring with the backing.
You just have toopen the ring that connects your chain to your clasp with two flat pliers. Choose nylon-tipped pliers so as not to mark the metal. Remove your clasp. Then remove the extra link or links to get the right length.
Just like tennis bracelets, chain bracelets should be about an inch wider than your wrist.
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.
Chain wear manifests as 'stretching'. This is when the chain link touchpoints between its pins and bushings wear away. Due to chain wear, less material means the chain 'stretches' in length.
Tape Measure Method
Wrap it snugly around your wrist and note the measurement where it meets. Add half an inch to your wrist measurement to find your bracelet size. For example, if your wrist measures 7 inches, add half an inch for a final bracelet size of 7.5 inches.
First, try using clear nail polish or superglue to secure the ends of the bracelet. If that doesn't work, try tying a knot in the bracelet itself. Finally, if all else fails, you can always use tape to keep your bracelet from falling off.
A properly-worn bracelet is loose enough to move with your hand but not so loose that it slips off. One or two fingers should be able to fit between the bracelet and your wrist. The vast majority of jewelry is one-size-fits-all. Necklaces are easy to slide around necks, and earrings are standard.
A good fitting bracelet has a bit of extra space between itself and your wrist... but not so much that it slides up and down your forearm/hand. You should be able to slide 1 or 2 fingers under the bracelet and your wrist. A good tip is to treat bracelets like you would your watch – keep it under your sleeve.
Shortening & Lengthening: Adjusting the length of your chain to fit your preferences isn't too difficult for the average jeweler. For shortening a chain, the jeweler merely cuts the chain down to the requested length, reattaches the end portion (either the jump ring or the clasp) and solders everything shut.
You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the bracelet and your wrist. Depending on your personal preference whether you like a snug fit, comfort fit or a loose fit, you may need to move up or down a size accordingly to suit your preference.
The easiest way to change the size of your gold bracelet is to use a chain bracelet. To lengthen or shorten them, add or subtract the necessary number of chain links. If it's a simple chain with no design features, they can do it in any jewelry shop.
Let Your Local Jeweler Remove the Watch Links
Fees for such services are typically $10 to $15. If your watch is from a high-end brand, sizing is often complimentary and would happen at the time of purchase.
Add a half of an inch to the measured circumference of your wrist to allow for a comfortable fit and that is how you get the right bracelet size. If, for instance, the circumference of your wrist is 6 inches, your bracelet size would be 6.5 inches.