Understanding Rhinestone Sizes

The Beginner’s Guide to Rhinestone Sizes

Are you new to using bedazzling crystals? Then you may be scratching your head over rhinestone sizes. While jewelers use carats, faux gem manufacturers use something called “ss”. If you’re not familiar with this measurement, you may have difficulty determining which size you need.

Many years ago, rhinestones were a naturally occurring resource found along the banks of the Rhine River in Europe. Sparkling quartz pebbles, prospectors measured these according to their stone size. Later, this measurement became shortened to ss.  

Over time, this natural resource became depleted. However, people loved their gemstones, so manufacturers found a way to produce them in the factory. Today, many manufacturers produce different rhinestone sizes, but they still use the ss measurement. 
​

Which Rhinestone Size Should I Use For My Project?

Manufacturers vary in the variety of sizes they produce. While they all use the ss measurement system, some companies have a larger selection of rhinestones sizes. Some produce only the most popular sizes such as 12ss, 16ss, and 20ss. Others, like Swarovski,  create crystals from the tiniest 3ss size to the large 40ss size.

​The smaller the number next to the “ss”, the smaller the rhinestones. For example, a size 6ss rhinestone is about the size of a head of a pin. A size 34ss is slightly larger than an eraser on a pencil.  Until you become familiar with the variations, it can be confusing. Thus, most companies will list the millimeter size alongside the “ss” size. Which size you should use depends on the type of project you’re working on.

Small size crystals are perfect for nail design. Rhinestone nails are very trendy and fashionable. After applying nail polish, use nail glue and topcoat to secure the rhinestones onto your fingernails.

Typically, costume designers like to use bigger rhinestones on dance and skating apparel. Generally, using big crystals will give you a flashier shine. Incorporating several different sizes allows for a serendipitous, unforeseen play of light. Sometimes you may need very specific sizes. Many people like to bling out the Nike symbol on their sneakers. To do so requires a very specific set of rhinestones. 
​​

Rhinestone Sizes - Stone Size to Millimeter Conversion Chart

When determining the best size for your project, it’s helpful to know the millimeter size. Most suppliers offer a rhinestone conversion chart. For your convenience, below is a reference diagram comparing ss to millimeters:


ss            mm                        ss        mm                           ss        mm
3            1.4                           8        2.35                           20        4.7
4            1.6                           9        2.65                           30        6.41
5            1.8                          10       2.85                           34        7.17
6            2.0                          12       3.1                             40        8.54
7            2.15                        16       3.9                             48       11.11     
​

Another aspect to consider when ordering rhinestones is the area you’re planning to cover. Although larger bedazzling gems are more expensive, they do cover a larger area than smaller crystals. Fewer rhinestones also means less work for you.

Adding rhinestones to clothing, shoes, or nails adds explosions of light. Bedazzling jewels grab your attention with each twinkle of a facet, demanding attention. Undoubtedly, this is why so many fashion designers use them.

Rhinestones Etc. has a large selection of sparkling, bedazzling gems for all your bling needs.  Browse our online store to find your color and size.