Swarovski Stone Sizes as well as other crystal, stones, rhinestones, and flatbacks are often given the mysterious PP and/or SS sizing. PP and SS size terminology is a throwback from earlier times but is still extensively used by most industry leaders today. You can use our indispensable Swarovski Stone Sizes Chart to easily convert PP and/or SS sizing in millimeters and inches.
Where do PP size and SS size come from?
Pearl Plates (origin of PP Size)
PP Size
“PP” originated from the technique of pearl sizing. PP literally stands for “Pearl Plate”.
In days gone by, pearls were placed into a set of vertically stacked plates. These plates had a series of graduated punched holes in them. As the pearls fell through the holes, they could then be sized and priced accordingly. The plates acted like sieves in the gauging of pearl sizes.
SS Size
“SS” stands for “Stone Size”.
Jewelers later developed the SS system for sizing stones. It achieved the same purpose (of sizing and pricing) but using a different scale than PP.
PP Size and SS Size Today
Both the PP and the SS sizing conventions continue to be in use today.
- PP size – more popular in jewelry making where smaller sizes (1.8 to 3.1mm) are frequently used
- SS size – comparatively more relevant in the clothing industry where larger stones are employed (up to 11mm)
Swarovski PP and SS Sizing
In general, there is no consistent universal standard for the PP and SS sizing. They are used to indicate a range rather than a specific size.
Modern manufacturers like Swarovski manufacture only high precision stones. Hence Swarovski PP and SS sizing are more more specific and accurate. (See: Swarovski Stones Sizes Chart) However you really need to rely on each specific manufacturer’s chart for real accurate conversions to metric and/or imperial measurements.
Measurement and Sizing Tools for Jewerly Making and Related Arts
Anyone who has spent any time indulging in the pure pleasures of jewerlry making and related arts will know that we rely on all kinds of essential sizing and measurement tools.
Measuring stone sizes is but one of the many measurements we need.
There are all kinds of sizing tools that you will find, sooner or later, yearning to posses. They will make your craft more enjoyable and professional.
