A Quick History of Bracelets: Ancient Styles and Modern Influences

Originally made of found objects such as wood, stone, bones and plant materials, bracelets have come a long way in both material and design. Many of these historic bracelets were created to serve religious as well as decorative purposes. Today, bracelets are still available for religious purposes as mini rosaries or malas and are being crafted from a wide variety of materials no matter what the purpose.

As developments in production and metal craft evolved bracelets were created from gold, bronze, silver and included jade and other gemstones. For thousands of years bracelets have been decoration as well as a symbol of wealth and prosperity. As detail work became possible the intricacies of bracelet detail became more common.

Bracelets of the Ancient World

In China detailed designs included dragons and phoenixes within the gold bracelet and often included pearls and jade as well as incorporating various metals with these precious stones.

In Greek culture, the bracelets were worn by both sexes for fashion and function. The women would adorn their arms above and below the elbow with wrappings of gold or silver. Often these bracelets would be detailed with animals such as lions or snakes. The men would wear metal or thick leather cuffs along the forearms to protect against blows during battles. These leather or metal bracelets on men were also popular for ceremonial dress as well.

As the Roman Empire spread, so did their sense of fashion. One of the Roman favorites was to work gemstones into the design of the bracelet, often allowing the gem to serve as the eye for the animal worked into the detail. The knot work and interlacing animals were popular designs in Roman culture.

Exotic Influences from the East

India brought bangles to popularity and the ladies there often still wear bracelets to show that they are married. Many would wear multiple bangles of many materials, styles and colors. Byzantine bracelets were designed to sit smoothly on the body even though it is a mesh metal design of interlocking links. Byzantine bracelets are an example of detail combined with simplicity and are still popular today as a classic style.

As lockets came into style, they were incorporated into bracelets as well as necklaces. Usually attached as a charm to a chain or link bracelet these keepsakes often contained a picture or an engraved message or set of initials.

Traditionally these locket bracelets are crafted in gold because of the popularity of the metal during that time. Today it is as easy to find most styles in gold or silver and more frequently in stainless steel and platinum as well.

Modern Bracelets

Materials used today are vastly varied compared with the history of bracelets. From "Livestrong" plastic yellow bracelets to the artist-played guitars string bracelets (both with proceeds going to various charities), the sources of material are limited only by the imagination.

Artists make one-of-a-kind bracelets from many materials and will often make jewelry to order - a popular option for those wanting a personalized touch or a unique item. Many celebrities are looking to antique styles or vintage costume jewelry to dress up their wardrobes, while others rent extravagant bracelets for an evening awards event.