Types of Bracelets

Last week we discussed how to find a bracelet that will fit. This week, we will explore the different types of bracelets.


A bangle is one solid closed piece.  It is usually round.  It is often thin and made of metal, although other materials, like glass, are possible. Bangles are often worn in multiples and make an attractive soft clinking sound when the wearer moves her arm. Unlike the sizing method we discussed last week, the diameter of the wearer’s fist is the critical measurement when choosing a bangle as the bangle must be able to slip on over the hand.

Copper Bangle Bracelet by Nicole Valentine Studio

A true cuff bracelet is semi-rigid and has an opening on one side that allows the wearer to slip her wrist through it. Cuff bracelets are often fairly wide and are frequently made of metal, although other materials are possible. A cuff bracelet is usually worn more tightly on the wrist that other types of bracelets.

Bronze Textured Cuff by Galadryl Design

Charm bracelets are popular because they can often be added to over time. Charms are added to a central chain and can reflect a theme, important events in a person’s life or be an eclectic collection of items. A charm bracelet could make a fabulous gift for a collector – it’s a fabulous way to see and show off one’s collection.

Fluttery Dreams Sterling Charm Bracelet by Studio DTQ

Mail is the ancient art of linking small rings to form a solid, almost impenetrable mesh surface. Maille was used as armour starting around 300 BC. Mail has been modified into chain form and is often made into bracelets. Chain mail patterns vary, as do the metals used to make it. Chain mail bracelets are great choices for men or women.

Copper Box Weave Chain Maille Bracelet by Elegance and Sparkles

Sterling and Gold Half Persion Chain Maille Bracelet by Erika Price

Some bracelets are made up of a series of metal links. The links can be the same or varied throughout the bracelet. The length of a link bracelet can often be adjusted by the maker, making it a great choice for a person with a larger or smaller than average wrist.

Copper Silver Brass Bracelet by AM Designs by Angela

Beaded bracelets are perhaps the most familiar. Beads can be strung, they can be a series of wired links or they can be joined in some other way. Beaded bracelets can be one strand or multiple strands. They are available in a wide variety of colours, materials and styles.

Turquoise Magnesite, Shell Pearl and Sterling Silver Bracelet by Wickwire Jewelry

There are, of course, many bracelets that don't fit into any of these categories, but that are equally wonderful to wear.


Featuring artisan handmade creations by the Starving Artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com and here on ArtFire.

Finding a Bracelet that Fits

Bracelets are a great accessory. I love them because not only can everyone else see the cool bracelet that I’m wearing, so can I.

In order to find a bracelet that fits well, there are two measurements that you need to know:  the circumference of your wrist and the inner circumference of the bracelet.

The circumference of your wrist is how big around your wrist is. When you know that number, it’s easy to know what size of bracelet you want. For comfort, it is usually suggested to wear a bracelet that is about ½” (1.2 cm) bigger than your wrist. This will give you a bracelet that isn’t super tight around the wrist, but that won’t be travelling from your wrist to your elbow every time you move your arm.

Now for the bracelet – the critical measurement for a bracelet is the inner circumference of the bracelet, not the length of the bracelet. Why is that? Often, those two numbers don’t match up. For example, as you can see, the length of this bracelet is 9" (23 cm),

but the inner circumference is only 7 1/4" (18.5 cm).

The materials used in the bracelet affect this ratio. The chunkier the materials, the bigger difference there will be between the two numbers. But even materials that don’t appear very large can lead to a difference between the two numbers, as you can see here.

The length of this bracelet is 8 1/2" (21.5 cm)

The inner circumference of this same bracelet is 7 1/2" (19 cm), which comfortably fits a 7" (18 cm) wrist.

What if, like me, your wrist isn’t average size? Don’t give up on bracelets! Look at handmade bracelets. Even if you don’t find the correct size right off, sometimes the maker of the bracelet can adjust the size of the bracelet if asked, or even custom make a bracelet in a specific size for you.

With all this talk of bracelets, it’s now time to look at a few, don’t you think?

Golden Amber Bracelet by Erika Price

Beadwoven Bracelet - Acid Lime Green by Gwen Beads

Flower Mixed Metal Disc Bracelet by Paintin by Faith

Tiger Eye and Goldstone Bracelet by J3 Jewelry

Sterling Silver Black Leather Macrame Knot Bracelet by Wickwire Jewelry

Featuring artisan handmade creations by the Starving Artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com and here on ArtFire.

Bracelet Season

Today is the first day of Spring in the northern hemisphere.  This means it will soon be short sleeve weather.  And what is the perfect accessory to go with short sleeves?  Bracelets! 

Bracelets can add so much style and personality to a look.  They can be delicate and feminine or big and bold.  They can showcase your favorite item or show off your support for a cause.  You can match a bracelet to your outfit one day and match one to your mood the next.

I love how noticeable bracelets are.  Most of us move our arms around quite a lot during a day so a bracelet is sure to catch the eye of those around the wearer.  Don't be shy to express yourself through your choice of arm candy.

Doesn't this bracelet just call out "spring"?  The pretty flowers and feminine lines are perfect for this gentle season of reawakening. 

Sterling Silver and Purple Lampwork Flower Bracelet by Wickwire Jewelry

I can feel the movement of this bracelet and hear the soft tinkle of the charms as they gently sway in the air.  I would love to have this butterfly garden adorn my wrist.



Flutterby Dreams - Lampwork Sterling Charm Bracelet by Studio DTQ


This bracelet certainly makes a big statement!  Like the Ancient Egyptians, you too can wear jewelry featuring a scarab. 

Scarab Beetle Cuff Bracelet by MC Stoneworks

Perhaps you prefer bats to beetles?  Or maybe you want to remember a visit to a particular place?  This flattened penny bracelet allows you to show off your love for winged creatures.

Pressed Penny Copper Bangle Bracelet: Fruit Bat by The FamiLee Jewels

You don't want to wear a creature but you do love texture?  Then here is the perfect piece.  This copper cuff bracelet has a rich, sophisticated look, don't you think? 

Shiny Bubbles Copper Cuff by Twining Vine Designs

 
How many bracelets do you have in your collection?  Do you wear a different piece each day or do you find yourself going back to the same favorite one over and over again?

Featuring artisan handmade creations by the Starving Artists jewelry Team, the SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com and here on ArtFire.

Once Upon…The Wings of the Wind

My fantasy these days, after a very cold and snowy season, are of flying, soaring, gliding….through lush green pastures bursting with tender new growth, over rushing water falls draining winter’s snows from the mountains, above glimmering lakes full of new life…tadpoles, ducklings, minnows. Obviously, I don’t have wings but I’m in a hot air balloon, taking in the wonderful sights of an exciting new season…dare I say it…”Spring”….Up, up and away…on the wings of the wind.

The talented jewelry designers of the Starving Artist Team have helped to fuel these fantasies with beautifully handcrafted “winged” necklaces, bracelets, earrings, pendants, etc.

Enjoy….

AMDesignsbyAngela

TheFamiLeeJewels

PaintinbyFaith

popnicute

Shiny Adornments

MC Stoneworks

TJR Jewellery

Featuring artisan handmade creations by the Starving Artists jewelry Team, the SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com and here on ArtFire.

Supplies: Focus on Tutorials

Today in the Supplies feature, we take a look at the very informative tutorials written by our eclectic group of SATeam members. From beadwork to wirework, and even chainmaille, there's something new to learn for jewelry makers of all skill levels! Click on any picture to learn more about the item.

The SATeam blog features artisan handmade creations by the etsy starving artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current Etsy shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com

Supplies: Focus on Tutorials

Today in the Supplies feature, we take a look at the very informative tutorials written by our eclectic group of SATeam members. From beadwork to wirework, and even lampwork, there's something new to learn for jewelry makers of all skill levels! Click on any picture to learn more about the item.

The SATeam blog features artisan handmade creations by the etsy starving artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current Etsy shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com

Supplies

Check out these recent SATeam listings for lampwork beads, jewelry components and tutorials! Click on any picture to learn more about the item.

The SATeam blog features artisan handmade creations by the etsy starving artists jewelry team. SATeam members create handcrafted jewelry and beads. More information about our team and its current etsy shop owner members can be found at SATEAM.etsy.com