Charm bracelets date back to millenia. Though the materials and designs used on them have undergone changes, its core essence has not gone out of style.

Initially charm bracelets were worn due to certain religious requirements. This practice dates back to the pre-historic times. They were known to be first worn from 500-400 B.C. by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians and Hittites. These charms were crafted from lapis lazuli, rock crystal and also locally-available gems, which were emblazoned with symbolic designs, like figures of gods, humans, animals etc. The charm bracelets were closely believed to possess spiritual and magical powers and acted as protective talismans to ward off the evil eye or enemies.

Over the course of time, the significance of charm bracelets lost its religious connotation and was looked at as a form of fashion jewellery. In the 1890’s, the Victorians almost started a renaissance for charm bracelets, due to their affinity for elaborate, flamboyant and intricate clothing and jewellery. Queen Victoria was seen wearing charm bracelet that contained tiny lockets that held family portraits.

Charm bracelets experienced a second revival in America during the Second World War, wherein soldiers stationed in European cities purchased charms as souvenirs which they brought back home as presents for their wives, girlfriends and loved ones. This fashion trend went on into the 1950’s.

Charms have not gone out of vogue entirely, and have gained popularity today as a form of keepsake in a jewellery market that thrives on mass-production. The popular designs observed for charm bracelets are – zodiac signs, birthstone, souvenirs etc. There are people who have a tendency to collect charm bracelets as a hobby which only increases over time. A charm bracelet can be incorporated with tiny replicas of varied things that can hold a memory or a milestone or even lockets.

The price range of a charm bracelet will vary based on the material it is fashioned from. It can be made out of silver or even gold charm installed with gems. Not all charms dangle from chain like traditional charms. There are charms wherein each pattern is joined onto a flat link which can be snapped onto an extensible bracelet. The patterns can comprise of alphabets, symbols, images, precious gems, or even enamel pictures that are painted on them. Charm bracelets can be versatile such as modular bracelets that can be configured to match the wearers moods or outfits. The charm bracelets are conventionally made of stainless steel. The more expensive ones are made of 18k gold. Charm bracelets are available in a standard interchangeable size and it can be customized to the Client’s wrist. This helps to determine the incorporation of the number of links.

Charm bracelets are definitely a favourite among many patrons. However, charms are not just limited to just bracelets, they are also available as rings, chains and even pendants. To understand about the various forms of jewellery, enroll in the 1-year Diploma in Fine Jewellery Design from one of the well-known jewellery training institutes in Cochin.

History of Charm Bracelets