Charm Bracelets

Charm bracelets are not a new fashion fad – like so many other forms of jewelry and even body modification have become – and instead it carries a rich history steeped in faith, folklore, and tradition. In days of old, a charm bracelet was considered a premier vehicle for carrying the kinds of amulets - or charms - that would ward off the evil eye counteract the touch of a witch, and cleanse the spirit and body if it got in touch with anything unclean. Sterling silver charm bracelets have been found in the burial offerings of many different civilizations, and the various amulets and additions that were affixed to the charm bracelets have given later generations a good clue as to the religious beliefs, the status of the deceased, and also the fears and hopes the civilization may have held.

In modern days, a sterling silver charm bracelet is oftentimes seen on the wrist of a young girl or even an older girl and many friends will present one another with little charms for special occasions. This kind of silver charm bracelet may hold specially crafted little silver charms, it may hold beads, or it may have affixed to it homemade charms. In contrast, Italian charm bracelets are a new fashion for those who like to add new charms to their bracelets but thus far did not like wearing the jewelry since it had the habit of getting snagged on clothes and other items. The Italian charm bracelet has snap on charms that are displayed on the actual bracelet itself rather than hanging from it.

While charm bracelets are very common on the wrists of girls, young men have found a use for charm bracelets as well. Some like to use them as a wearable travel diary while others like them for spiritual reasons and thus add charms that reflect their beliefs or superstitions. Charm bracelets are made of any number of materials, but metals are the most common. Bracelet charms, on the other hand, may be made up of gold (to match a gold charm bracelet), silver (to match silver charm bracelets), but also bones, stones, twigs, and feathers. Charm bracelet charms include little containers for photo charm bracelets, or special ornaments for a music charm bracelet. Stretch charm bracelets easily fit over the ankle so that the bracelet may be changed into an anklet, while a charm bracelet – silver, gold or platinum – may be coated with a certain material to change its color and texture.