What Are Bracelets?
Bracelets are decorative items that are worn around the wrist. They can be made from a variety of materials, including metals like gold or sterling silver.
Throughout history, bracelets have often held a meaningful significance to their wearers. They have been used as protection from the elements and spirit forces. They have also been a sign of marital status and rank.
History
Bracelets have been a favourite jewellery item for thousands of years. Evidence of bracelets carved in stone has been unearthed from prehistoric sites across Europe, and the style was popularized by Victorian jewellery designers. Today, bangles and other styles of bracelets can be made from a wide variety of materials. From the more basic, plastic-based ones to more expensive gold and silver bangles, these accessories are worn by both men and women.
Throughout history, the design and style of bracelets has varied according to cultural styles and fashion trends. They were often a symbol of wealth, as well as a sign of allegiance or faith in some cultures. They have been worn to guard against evil spirits or harsh weather, and even to encourage the winter sun to turn to spring sooner rather than later.
The modern trend of silver bracelets has taken hold as many prefer the more affordable metal to traditional precious metal jewellery. Silver is easy to work with and has a unique beauty all its own. Its lustre and shine are unmatched by any other silver jewellery, making it an excellent choice for bracelets. The popularity of silver has also influenced other bracelet designs. For example, in the 1930s and 1940s, designers began to add Bakelite and plastics to bracelets. They also introduced new shapes like slender bangles and beaded strands that were a favourite of teen girls.
Materials
Bracelets can be made from a variety of materials, from natural to man-made. The most common materials include metals (especially precious and semi-precious), leather, beads, woven or braided cords and stones. Natural materials have been used since prehistoric times and may Custom fashion accessories include insect secretions, wood, rattan, plant fibres, bone, horn, shell, teeth and tusks, agate, jasper, carnelian, quartz, and other gemstones. Glass and faience are popular as well.
Many bracelets skip the clasp altogether and simply slip on over the wrist. These bracelets, called bangles, are typically round in shape and have a more open look. They can be crafted from either a single piece of metal or multiple pieces joined together to create a bangle style bracelet.
Elastic cord is a common choice for quick and easy beading projects. It is strong and can be knotted to secure a bracelet, but it also works great for weaving beads with other material. When working with elastic cord, it is important to pre-stretch it before beginning a project to ensure that you have enough material for the entire bracelet.
Waxed cotton cord is another excellent option for beading projects. It is durable and versatile, and it comes in a wide range of colours. This cord is good for stringing beads and can be finished off with foldover crimps or end caps.
Styles
Bracelet styles and materials vary greatly, as do the meanings associated with them. Depending on the type of bracelet, wearing it may symbolize love, luck, faith or even good health. For many, it is also a way to connect with one’s spirituality. In fact, there is a whole culture behind the tradition of bracelet wearing.
For example, a shamballa bracelet is a symbolic piece of jewelry that represents enlightenment. Similarly, the beaded bracelets of the Tibetan Buddhists are a sign of purity and spirituality. Bracelet gifting is a common practice among couples, and a great way to celebrate an anniversary or milestone.
Most bracelets are made out of metal, although other sturdy materials such as natural and faux gemstones and beads, textile materials, stone, wood or plastic can be used. Metal bracelets are the most common and can be crafted into a wide range of designs.
The rigidity of the bracelet is also important. Rigid bracelets are known as bangles, and they can be made into open or closed cuff styles, hinged or tension based. Bangle bracelets can also be woven to create a more elaborate and intricate design, Enamel Painted Bracelet but they are most commonly sold in the form of single solid cylinders. In contrast, the more flexible bracelets are called link or chain bracelets and are shaped in to a variety of shapes and widths.
Meaning
Throughout history bracelets have held a special significance in both secular and religious circles. From guarding against evil spirits or the harsh sun to outwardly representing marital status, to encouraging winter to turn to spring sooner rather than later, bracelets have been an integral part of one’s personal style and identity.
Today, bracelets continue to serve a multitude of purposes, from a simple fashion accessory to a tool for self-improvement and wellness. Bracelets made from natural and synthetic gemstones and beads, leather, textile materials, metals, stone, wood and shells are available in a wide array of colors and styles to suit everyone’s personal taste.
The bracelets worn by men and women often carry a meaning that is unique to their culture or tradition. For instance, in Ancient Egypt a bracelet was believed to be a gift from the Gods. In the Middle Ages a bracelet was an expression of one’s social rank. Royalty wore elaborate gold and silver bracelets while lower-ranking members of society opted for base metals.
In Latin America, new mothers wear azabache bracelets (a string or chain with a black and red charm in the shape of a fist) to protect their babies from the mal de ojo, a curse thought to be caused by excessive admiration or envious looks by others. In the United States, stylish medical-alert bracelets are used to alert medical professionals to a person’s allergies or other health concerns.
