The History Of Handcrafted Bracelets

By Author: carina coronel
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When did bracelets first come into popular use?

Bracelets have been around since the ancient Sumerians first wore them around 2500 BC. Sumerian women wore them to show off their husbands’ wealth; thus, they, along with other ornaments, became symbols of status. Their popularity endured, and became widespread in ancient Egypt in 2000 BC.

During Grecian times, soldiers wore armbands called “bracels” made of leather and studded with metals and stones in the forearms. The modern term came from the Latin “brachium” for arm. The women realized they can craft smaller versions; thus, handcrafted bracelets were reborn.

How has the use of ornaments, particularly bracelets, evolved through the years?

There was a time in the recent past when friendship bracelets were fashionable. In fact they still are. Friends who want to seal the bond with other friends make handcrafted bracelets with the friends’ names, and these become their identifying mark. They are ornamental because they can be made as colorful and as elaborate, but they are primarily symbols of human bond.

Ornaments, particularly ...
... made of stones, have also become increasingly popular in their therapeutic aspects. Gemologists are rediscovering the value of gemstones as containers of energy, and these are being translated into handcrafting jewelry – bracelets in particular, because of their proximity to pulse points. In Chinese medicine, some stones are used to align the yin and yang; moonstone enhances the inner feminine. In Ayurvedic (Indian) medicine, other stones are used to open chakras, or energy centers, to reinvigorate the body. Turquoise is a good example.

Silicone bracelets worn by sports personalities have gone a long way in becoming tools for promoting various causes and charities or campaigning for awareness of social issues. Increasingly however, among the young, bracelets are becoming a personal fashion statement.

How do bracelets signify one’s personality?

The modern human’s affinity for standing out above the rest has led to ever-increasing focus on personalized service and customized care. The same can be said of jewelries, bracelets in particular. Unlike earrings and necklaces, bracelets are worn in less-prominent areas, so a person can exercise as much creativity in customizing their bracelets without being overly made or gaudy in their choice of fashion.

You can have one made with your birth stone, or you can have it made with various trinkets that signify the highlights of your personality. A person born under the sign of Scorpio in the year of the snake can have handcrafted bracelets with miniature figures of scorpion and snake and other insignia that speak more of the person’s individuality and fashion tastes.

What are good choices for materials in customizing bracelets?

For everyday use, semi-precious stones or gems are a safe choice. They are as visually appealing without breaking the budget. Plus, they can be handcrafted to complement the person’s choice of clothing or reflect the person’s mood. If you feel particularly grounded and wise, you can wear turquoise with lapis. Or, if you feel spontaneous, you can have your bracelets handcrafted with opal. The list goes: agate to symbolize courage, amethyst for protection, aquamarine for direction, coral for clear mind, and jade for peace.

Elizabeth is an artist when it comes to designing jewelry. She makes custom made jewelry and beautiful handcrafted bracelets. Check out her handmade jewelry site for more information.