BRACELETS – A BRIEF HISTORY

The name bracelet derives from the Greek brachile meaning ‘of the arm’. Bracelets have many uses – including jewellery ornamentation,  protection (spiritual e.g. evil eye or physical e.g. arm guard in archery), religious adherence (e.g. Sikhs iron bracelet) and even medical information (allergy or illness identification). In recent decades bracelets have been employed for festival admission, fund-raising events and solidarity.

The oldest identified bracelet thus far was discovered in 2008 at a Russian archaeological excavation site in Denisova Cave in Siberia. It has been carbon dated to 40,000 years ago! It is believed that bracelet ornamentation began with the use of bone, shell and wood. Metal, rock and crystal versions followed. With the discovery of precious metals in the Bronze Age came the refinement in design that has persisted to the present day.

Egyptian and Mesopotamian bracelets date back to 7000 years ago. Their designs were varied – from cuffs and bangles to torcs and hinged bracelets. Often highly ornamented with intricate carving and the use of precious stones such as Lapis Lazuli, these bracelets were worn by nobility and religious figures. Chain bracelets date to that time also. Gold bracelets were given to Roman soldiers who showed valour in battle.

Metal charm bracelets first appeared around 3000 years ago – so are not a modern development. However, Queen Victoria promoted the charm bracelet as she loved to wear and gift them. Popular modern charm bracelet manufacturers, including Pandora and Thomas Sabo, continue the tradition to this day.

Novel iterations of the bracelet include the ’tennis bracelet’  (a diamond line bracelet) dubbed thus by tennis star Chris Evert who dropped hers on court at the 1978 US Open. Bangles are popular also and may be a single hoop or hinged. In certain parts of India, the number and type of bangles worn by a woman indicates her marital status. Whether plain or embellished with engravings, crystals and/or gems these designs are popular the world over.

Bracelets may be standalone or part of a jewellery ‘set’.

Whatever your taste in jewellery, it is sure to be sated by one from the wide variety of bracelets available today.

Be sure to visit https://www.tcityjewelers.com and check out the range that Wade has designed and crafted.