Finding the perfect bangle online can feel like a guessing game, but it’s actually a simple science. In India, we use a unique sizing system—often referred to as the “Anna” system—where sizes like 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, and 2.8 are the standard.
If you’ve ever wondered why a 2.4 fits your friend but feels tight on you, or how to translate these numbers into centimeters (cm) or inches, this guide is for you.
The Ultimate Bangle Size Conversion Chart
Most Indian bangles are measured by their inner diameter. Use this table to quickly find your match.
| Indian Bangle Size | Inner Diameter (Inches) | Inner Diameter (cm) | Inner Diameter (mm) | Hand Circumference (cm) |
| 2.2 | 2.125″ | 5.4 cm | 54 mm | 16.9 cm |
| 2.4 | 2.25″ | 5.7 cm | 57 mm | 17.8 cm |
| 2.6 | 2.375″ | 6.0 cm | 60 mm | 18.8 cm |
| 2.8 | 2.5″ | 6.3 cm | 63 mm | 19.8 cm |
| 2.10 | 2.625″ | 6.7 cm | 67 mm | 20.7 cm |
| 2.12 | 2.75″ | 7.0 cm | 70 mm | 21.9 cm |
How to Measure Your Bangle Size at Home
Don’t have a professional sizer? No problem. Here are the two most reliable DIY methods:
Method 1: The “Old Faithful” (Using an existing bangle)
If you have a bangle that fits perfectly, this is the most accurate method.
Place the bangle on a flat surface.
Take a ruler and measure the inner diameter (the space inside the circle) in a straight line across the center.
Match the cm or inch measurement to the chart above.
Method 2: The “Knuckle Wrap” (Using string or paper)
Since bangles have to slide over your hand, your knuckles are actually more important than your wrist!
Form a Puppet Hand: Tuck your thumb into your palm and bring your fingers together (as if you are sliding on a bangle).
Wrap it: Use a piece of string or a strip of paper to wrap around the widest part of your hand (usually across the knuckles).
Mark and Measure: Mark where the string overlaps. Lay it flat against a ruler to get your Hand Circumference.
Find your size: Look at the “Hand Circumference” column in the table above to find your Indian size.
Understanding the “2.4 vs. 2.6” Logic
You might notice that the difference between a 2.4 and a 2.6 is only about 3 millimeters in diameter. While it seems tiny, that small gap is the difference between a bangle that glides on smoothly and one that requires soap and water to get off!
Expert Tip: If you are buying heavy bridal kadas or thick metal bangles, we always recommend sizing up (e.g., if you are a 2.4, buy a 2.6). Thicker bangles take up more volume and feel tighter than thin glass or thread bangles.
3 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Measuring the Wrist Only: A bangle doesn’t open like a bracelet. If it can’t pass your knuckles, it won’t reach your wrist. Always measure the widest part of your hand.
Ignoring the Dominant Hand: For most people, their right hand (if right-handed) is slightly larger than their left. Measure the hand you plan to wear the bangles on.
The “Morning Measure” Trap: Hands can swell slightly in heat or during the evening. Try measuring in the afternoon when your hands are at their average size.
