Reference

Rhinestone size chart

SS sizes, millimeters, and how many stones each size takes to fill an area.

Updated November 2026 · Canada

Stone sizeDiameterPer inch (row)Per sq inchPer cm²Typical use
SS41.5–1.7 mm1320632Nail art, fine detail
SS61.9–2.1 mm1114122Fine lettering, dense fill
SS82.3–2.5 mm910216Lettering, fine fill
SS102.7–2.9 mm87812The standard fill size for clothes and tumblers
SS123–3.2 mm76410Same as a 3 mm resin stone; general fill
SS163.8–4 mm6427Outlines, bolder fill
SS204.6–4.8 mm5305Outlines, statement stones on denim
SS306.3–6.5 mm3173Accents, focal points
SS347.1–7.3 mm3132Accents
SS408.4–8.7 mm2101Feature stones
SS4810.9–11.2 mm261Feature stones, costumes

Millimeters to stone size

Reading the chart

Sizes are ranges because every maker cuts slightly differently. The per-inch and per-area columns assume round stones in a honeycomb pattern with a hairline gap, which matches the figures rhinestone suppliers publish. Tight “touching” work fits a few more; scattered designs need far fewer. For your own shape, use the How many rhinestones do I need?.

You will also meet PP (pearl plate) sizes for tiny pointed-back chatons used in jewellery, and plain millimeters for resin stones. Jelly kits are almost always 2–6 mm.

Choosing a size

  • Lettering: SS6–SS10 for small text, SS16 for bold words across a back.
  • Fill: SS10–SS12 (3 mm) is the standard for tumblers, cases and full coverage.
  • Outlines: one size up from the fill.
  • Accents: SS20–SS30 dropped into a smaller fill adds depth.
  • Kids: 5–6 mm resin is easier for small fingers (and never for children under three: small parts).

Glass flatback rhinestones

Foil-backed glass for the most sparkle; glue-on.

BEADSLAND Glass flatback rhinestones, SS10BEADSLAND

Glass flatback rhinestones, SS10

1,440 pcs · glass

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BEADSLAND Glass flatback rhinestones, SS30BEADSLAND

Glass flatback rhinestones, SS30

576 pcs · glass

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BELLEBOOST Glass flatback rhinestones, SS12BELLEBOOST

Glass flatback rhinestones, SS12

2,000 pcs · glass · B7000 glue included

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MEIBITE Glass flatback rhinestones, SS20MEIBITE

Glass flatback rhinestones, SS20

1,440 pcs · glass · E6000 glue included

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Common questions

What size is SS10 in mm?

About 2.7–2.9 mm.

What does SS mean in rhinestones?

Stone size. It is a traditional scale where a larger number means a larger stone.

Is 3 mm SS10 or SS12?

3 mm is closest to SS12 (3.0–3.2 mm). SS10 is slightly smaller.

How many SS10 rhinestones per square inch?

Roughly 75–80 with a hairline gap in a honeycomb pattern; fewer if you leave space.

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