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Bracelet Style & Buying Guide
From ritual to casual adornment purposes, people in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt and China have been wearing bracelets for thousands of years. They remain one of the most popular types of jewelry today and come in a range of different styles.
Whether you’re treating yourself to a new bracelet or looking for a thoughtful gift for something special, Zales has everything you need to know to learn how to pick the perfect bracelet.
Bracelet Styles
At their most basic, most bracelets will feature a chain. While sometimes worn on their own, chains included in these popular styles are generally made to support embellishments. Of course, not all bracelets begin with a chain, as you'll discover. Here are some of the most common bracelet styles to consider:
Tennis: Named for the beloved bracelet of a famous tennis star, this style is quite the athlete itself. Nimble and light, tennis bracelets are designed for easy wear without sacrificing any style. Meant to be worn comfortably around the wrist to allow for some movement, they generally attach with a clasp that locks. Gemstones are often featured in tennis bracelets, and diamond tennis bracelets are the most popular.
Bangle: Bangles can range in size and weight. Some are quite wide while others are more slender. Certain bangles don’t feature clasps or closures. Instead, they are wide enough for the hand to pass through yet narrow enough for the bracelet to stay on the wrist. If a closure is part of the design, the bracelet may open and then click shut with a locking mechanism. For the most part, bangles are solid bracelets that do not contain any links, as in a chain. Bangles can be worn individually or as a group.
Cuff: A cuff is one of the most unique styles of bracelets. Generally wide, cuffs tend to cover the wrist and slightly higher, though some can be narrower. Solid metal is the primary material for cuffs with leather being the second most common. Cuffs feature openings rather than clasps.
Charm: With a simple chain base, this bracelet is intended to be customized and personalized with individual charms. Charms can be selected all at once or curated over many years. Choose a cohesive theme for your charm bracelet or curate a meaningful piece of jewelry using charms that signify important moments in your life.
Bolo: Similar to the tie that shares its name, bolo bracelets feature an adjustable closure that tightens and loosens according to the wearer's wrist size. Bolos feature many types of designs and materials but are generally lighter and more delicate compared to other styles.
Choosing the Right Bracelet
From dainty and delicate to bold and statement-making, bracelets can be found in many shapes and sizes. There’s no such thing as the “right” bracelet, but there are a few things that may help guide you in the right direction as you browse your options. Here’s what to consider:
Type of metal: Some people are allergic to certain types of metals, especially nickel and cobalt. 18K gold and higher contain smaller amounts of alloy and platinum and sterling silver are hypoallergenic, so they may be a better choice for anyone with allergies. Gold and platinum can also be more expensive than other metals, so your budget will be a factor as well.
Gemstones: From a diamond-studded tennis bracelet to a bangle featuring a single pearl or sapphire, gemstones can make any bracelet unique. Consider choosing a birthstone or a gemstone that commemorates a significant anniversary to make the bracelet even more meaningful.
Style: While some people prefer delicate bracelets, others are looking for the strong statement that a thick bangle or cuff can make. Consider the occasion and overall personal style of the wearer to narrow down your options.
Jewelry Care
Taking good care of your charm bracelets, bangles and cuffs is the key to ensuring you can wear them for years to come. Learn more about best practices for cleaning and storing different types of jewelry.