If you’re still in the process of building your jewelry collection, you’re likely, at least at some point, going to want to add some bracelets into the mix. Even if you don’t wear bracelets all that often, a comprehensive jewelry collection includes at least a few bracelets that are suitable for a variety of occasions. To help you pick the best options for your wardrobe and personal preferences, here are all the basics you need to know about purchasing bracelets as a beginner jewelry collector.
The Different Types of Bracelets
Start shopping for bracelets and you’ll immediately realize that you have a lot of options — and we mean a lot. Here are just a few of the types of bracelets you’ll have to choose from.
Bangles
Bangles are a classic option. Straightforward and stackable, bangles are a trending option for their versatility. Thin or clunky, single or multiple — however you wear these bracelets, you’ll find that they work in just about every occasion, with any outfit.
Cuff Bracelets
Cuff bracelets are nearly just like bangles, but instead of forming a full circle, they have a small opening on one side. Cuffs can, like bangles, come in small or wide sizes, but most are wider than your average bangle. If you like a somewhat chunkier look, you may prefer a cuff to a bangle. Cuffs are also not as stackable as bangles, and are often best worn solo, due to their size.
Chain Bracelets
Chains are likewise classic options, and they have the extra advantage of being both trending at the moment, as well as classic enough that they’ll remain a staple piece of your wardrobe for decades to come. Chains are available in a wide variety of styles, which we’ll discuss in just a moment.
Tennis Bracelets
Tennis bracelets are a little more specific. These sophisticated, classic bracelets nearly always feature a row of square diamonds, forming a thin, single-strand bracelet. Tennis bracelets can be worn with both casual and more formal outfits and are gaining new popularity with new generations.
Charm Bracelets
A chain bracelet with an upgrade, charm bracelets are a great way to show off your personal style, interests and personality. Charm bracelets — and charms really on every piece of jewelry — are really trending right now, but don’t go for a charm bracelet just due to this fact. The bracelets may go out of vogue within a few seasons, so, if you buy a charm bracelet, make sure you choose one with personal significance or meaning.
Pearl Bracelets
Pearl bracelets are exactly what they sound like. While pearl necklaces may be slightly more popular thanks to their classic style, pearl bracelets are a bit more understated and a great way to show off your love of pearls without the need for a dressier necklace and, accordingly, outfit. Pearl bracelets work well with even casual outfits, but, like their necklace counterparts, also fit in with your more formal attire.
The Different Types of Chains
So what if you decide you’d like to go for a chain bracelet? As mentioned, there are lots of different chain styles out there — even more chain styles than there are bracelet styles, arguably. Here are some of the most popular.
Cable Chains
You might be most familiar with cable chains. A more delicate, lightweight version of the curb chain, which appeals more to men, cable chains are basic, with oval links that are flat, for a necklace that lies flush with your skin. The chain is durable and works well with a variety of styles, and can be worn alone or with pendants or charms.
Rope Chains
Rope chains have a rope-like appearance. The metal pieces twist around one another to provide texture and weight that you won’t find with a cable chain. While these chains are a bit thicker and heavier than cable chains as a result, they’re a nice option to wear alone, if you want some visual interest, but nothing overly busy.
Box Chains
If you prefer straight lines and geometric shapes to the curves you see in most chain designs, you might prefer a box chain. You can find box chains, with their square links, in both narrow and wide sizes. The narrower sizes are more suitable for narrower wrists.
Snake Chains
Snake chains feature linked metal pieces that resemble snake scales, in appearance, movement and reflection. The flexible bracelet must be worn alone, versus with a pendant or charm. Because the links are so tightly fitted together, the chain is ideal for those wearers who want a durable, casual bracelet that won’t snag on objects and that won’t easily break.
Of course, these aren’t the only chain styles that you’ll find out there, but just a few of the basics. As you expand your jewelry collection, you’ll discover even more chain styles and, possibly, a fast favorite.
Are Bracelets Good Investment Pieces?
Adding a bracelet to your jewelry collection isn’t just worthwhile because it helps round out your wardrobe options. Bracelets also make good investment pieces — if you buy the right ones.
As is the case when investing in any piece of jewelry, if you’re shopping for a bracelet as an investment piece first and an accessory second, you can either look for a bracelet that will fetch a high resale price due to the raw materials used in making it (such as the gold, diamonds, etcetera) or a bracelet that will fetch a high resale price due to its value as a fashion piece alone. For the latter, you’ll want to look for rare vintage pieces, pieces from in-demand designers or pieces that were made in limited quantities. For example, if you’re looking for specific bracelets that are holding their value well on the current resale market,
Who What Wear recommends Hermes’ Collier de Chien bracelets, which are currently holding 66% of their value on the resale market, as well as Cartier’s Juste un Clou bracelets, a classic option that is always in demand and can be sold at 106% of the retail price.
Buying a Bracelet as a Gift?
Of course, there’s no need to buy jewelry with investment in mind at all. It’s perfectly fine (and fun!) to buy jewelry simply for the pleasure of it. If you’re buying a bracelet as a gift to celebrate a major milestone or life event (or you’re hinting for a gift for yourself), you won’t go wrong if you take a few key factors into consideration.
For example, take your recipient’s lifestyle and tastes into account. Do they frequently wear casual outfits? Or are they always dressed to the nines? Do they prefer lots of flashy, colorful accessories or is their wardrobe a little more subdued? Whatever the case may be, narrow down your bracelet style selection based on these factors.
Once you know what style bracelet you’d like to purchase, consider your recipient’s tastes in terms of precious metals and gemstones, as well as their wrist size. All of these factors will help you narrow your options, so you pick the perfect bracelet for their individual style.
The Perfect Jewelry Collection Starts at Yamron
So where can you go to find not only a wide selection of bracelets from top brands, but also helpful jewelers who know the latest trends and the best investment pieces on the market? Just stop by the Yamron boutique in Naples, Florida. There, you’ll find jewelry, including a wide assortment of bracelets, from top designers such as Cartier, David Webb, Seaman Schepps, Roberto Coin and more.
Sources & Recommended Further Reading
