Home » Education

A Short History on Charm Bracelets

Ranked #58,146 in Education, #960,141 overall

History of Charms

The history of using charm bracelets dates back millennia, started with a religious function and even goes back during the prehistoric era. Based on the data from Elizabeth Florence, the president of the Jewelry Information Center, bracelets were first found and worn by Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians and Hittites from 500 to 400 B.C. bracelets were created with lapis lazuli, rock crystal and other locally available gems. They were also inscribed with symbolic designs, like figure of gods, humans and animals. Charm bracelets were mostly associated with magical spiritual powers and they also served as a protective talisman to the wearer.

Charm bracelets have really come along way! From being linked to religious practices to a new way of self expression. They already made their own mark in the hearts of all women.

Charm Bracelets

As the years passed, charm bracelets meaning of religious and spiritual significance diminished and started to become part of the fashion jewelry trend. The Victorians of the 1890s started a new trend with charms due to their love for intricate and elaborate clothing and jewelry. Queen Victoria, who was also considered a fashion setter, helped with the craze by wearing a charm bracelet with tiny lockets holding family portraits.

Then during the Second World War era, soldiers who were stationed abroad acquired charms as part of their souvenirs from European cities and they even brought these trinkets home as their gifts to their wives and girlfriends. The fashion trend for wearing them continued well into the 1950s.

The Use of Charm Bracelets Now

Sterling Silver Tiffany Style Heart Tag Toggle Bracelet

Nowadays, charm bracelets have been used as part of their personal keepsake and are also known for being mass-produced because of the demand for them. Popular themes include birthstone charms, travel souvenirs, horoscope signs, family keepsakes, and even as part of a bride's bridesmaid jewelry gifts. A lot of women even begin collecting charm bracelets during their early childhood, and the charm bracelet grows along with them, showing hobbies, travels, and experiences. A charm bracelet can also include a tiny replica of a sports trophy that was won by her when she was in high school or a tiny wedding bouquet to remind her of her wedding, or even lockets holding family photos.

Why They are Popular

Laura Flower Girl & Junior Bridesmaid Bracelet - Select Colors

Charm bracelets are also popular gifts because they are also affordable. Brides can give them to her flower girl as their flower girl gifts so they can start collecting their own trinkets of memories. An intricate charm can even be found for less than $10, although if you are buying your own and you would want an 18K gold set with gems, you should prepare a possible spending of $100.