Guía de medidas de cristales y piedras para engastes (SS, PP y milímetros)

Guide to crystal and stone sizes for settings (SS, PP and millimeters)

When working with rhinestones, chatons or settings, it is essential to know the correct stone measurements. However, they are not always expressed in millimeters. Instead, the industry uses two main systems: SS (Stone Size) and PP (Pearl Plate).

In this guide, we explain what they mean, how to convert them to millimeters, and how to choose the right setting.

Different styles of setting beads for rhinestones

What do SS and PP measurements mean?

There are two standard systems used in the costume jewelry and jewelry industry:

SS (Stone Size)

  • Rhinestones
  • Chatons
  • Chaton chains
  • Metal settings

Common examples: SS12, SS16, SS20, SS30.

This system is the modern standard and the most recommended for choosing compatible settings.

PP (Pearl Plate)

  • Very small crystals
  • Pointed back stones
  • Precision technical applications
Rivolis with different types of bases on white table

Conversion Chart: PP, SS and Millimeters

PP SS mm
PP1 SS000 0.80 – 0.90 mm
PP2 SS00 0.90 – 1.00 mm
PP3 SS0 1.00 – 1.10 mm
PP4 SS1 1.10 – 1.20 mm
PP5/6 SS2 1.20 – 1.35 mm
PP7/8 SS3 1.35 – 1.50 mm
PP9/10 SS4 1.50 – 1.70 mm
PP11/12 SS5 1.70 – 1.90 mm
PP13/14 SS6 1.90 – 2.10 mm
PP15/16 SS7/8 2.10 – 2.40 mm
PP17/18 SS8/9 2.30 – 2.50 mm
PP19/20 SS9/10 2.40 – 2.70 mm
PP21/22 SS10 2.70 – 2.90 mm
PP23/24 SS11/12 2.90 – 3.20 mm
PP25/26 SS13 3.20 – 3.40 mm
PP31/32 SS16 3.80 – 4.00 mm
PP33 SS17/18 4.10 – 4.40 mm

How to choose the correct setting

The SS size of the setting must exactly match the SS size of the stone.

  • SS16 stone → SS16 setting
  • SS20 stone → SS20 setting

Conclusion

The SS system is the current standard and allows you to easily choose the correct setting for your crystals, ensuring a perfect fit and a professional finish.

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