Is this bracelet right for you?
Did you know that bracelets have been around for over 7000 years? Archaeological evidence shows that bracelets were worn by the Mesopotamians, Chinese, and Egyptians. However, bracelets may have been made from grass, shells, and tender tree limbs. Now, they are made of gold, silver, and platinum. What’s more, they have diamonds and other gemstones on them. The 20th century also made bracelets easily affordable because of mass production caused by increasing demand. Designs evolved, and styles changed to include charms suitable for different age groups. With men also joining the ranks of bracelet wearers, new designs came into being. The only difference is in the metal used for men’s bracelets. More often than not, they are fashioned out of grey steel, tungsten, and titanium. Although, some still prefer bracelets made in yellow gold.
People are wearing bracelets to support social causes or identify with specific groups in more recent times. Nevertheless, decorative bracelets remain popular and worn as the occasion demands. There are also symbolic bracelets, such as friendship bracelets, lucky beaded bracelets, string or wish bracelets, scripture bracelets, etc.
Still, irrespective of the history or symbolism, a bracelet will only work if it is right for you. Choosing the perfect bracelet can be a tad challenging when so many designs in the market inundate you.
Hear from our in-house experts:
Measure your wrist
Knowing the size of the bracelet you need will be a good start. Measure the circumference around your wrist. The bracelet should be around 3/4ths of an inch larger to be comfortable. While cuffs come under the same category and are worn more tightly around the wrist, you still don’t want it to cut off circulation! And, it shouldn’t be so loose as to slip off your wrist.
Tip: Our adjustable bracelets are great if you don’t really have the time to measure your size 😉
- Suman Kaur, Merchandiser & Designer
Does the style become you?
Typically, bracelets are more easily noticed than rings. And, they can be interesting conversation pieces. There is no right or wrong as far as style is concerned, and it is a matter of personal choice. Still, you wouldn’t want to experience buyer’s remorse. What took your breath away at first sight may not be your style. Before choosing one, a little thought given to bracelet style is always a wise move. Narrow wrists may look better with a delicate style, while a broader one may be able to handle chunkier bracelets.
Do you want a bracelet that you can wear everyday? Do you want a bracelet that’s more statement? Do you want a bracelet that can be stacked with your existing collection? Do you want a bracelet that can easily be removed? These are all good questions to ask while deciding the type of bracelet to wear.
- Kinnari Shah, Head of Design
Quality over quantity
A good quality bracelet may go a little over your budget. It is still worth the cost in the long term as bracelets last forever. The less expensive ones may show signs of wear and tear quite quickly. Pay attention to the metal used in the bracelet, as only pure metals may suit your skin. If there are be diamonds in the bracelet, you can look for the 4Cs – cut, colour, carats, and clarity. Even if the bracelet is for casual wear, quality will show.
- Sumy Thomas, Merchandiser
Too many designs to choose from?
Some designs speak to your personality. Others show your sense of style. It may be challenging to select a design that is just right. So, it would be good to look at the different types, such as plain gold bracelets, diamond bracelets, silver or platinum bracelets. They also come with meaningful designs, such as the Vogue infinity diamond bracelet or the entwined diamond heart bracelet. Both of these are explicit expressions of togetherness forever!
- Shailja Tandon, Merchandiser
Do you have a bracelet for every occasion?
Bracelets are worn all the time. Some of them may be more dressy than others. Some bracelets can be worn even at work, as many of them suit business outfits and can be worn for meetings. Quite a few bracelets are never taken off because they have been given by someone special. If you are into sports, you still don’t need to remove the bracelet as quality bracelets will not be affected by sweat or dirt. If you are ready to party, you have fun and stylish bracelets. And, if it is a wedding you are going to, add that special diamond bracelet to jazz up your outfit.
- Pragya Bharti, Merchandiser
Make your own bracelet.
You can have the name bracelet with your Zodiac sign or your name on it. You can add a few charms that show your interests, such as the Daisy gemstone bracelet or the Leaves Charm diamond bracelet for the avid gardener.
- Suman Kaur, Merchandiser
Finally, are you buying yourself a bracelet or will it be a gift? If you are going shopping, you know what to look for. But, if you know you will get one as a gift, you may have to drop a few hints as to what you would like!
Beware, bracelet designs may overwhelm your senses when looking at a few hundred of them. But, having a few tips at hand can make it a little easier. However, you may just be tempted to buy more than one when you see so many unique designs at CaratLane. A few tips to choosing bracelets are well and good, but nothing stops you from exploring a different style.
