Since its discovery in ancient times, silver has been considered a precious metal. Silver bracelets have always been used for adornment for men and women alike. Unlike pure silver, sterling silver is an alloy made with 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper which allows for a harder, longer lasting end product. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular sterling silver bracelet styles that are on trend at the moment.
Popular Sterling Silver Bracelet Styles
Sterling silver bracelets come in a wide variety of styles and shapes including bangle, cuff, link, chain, and charm bracelets. Each of these styles have their own appeal and purpose. If you are considering purchasing a sterling silver bracelet as a gift, use this list as a guide for bracelet styles and their “target” audience.
Silver Bangle Bracelets: Bangle bracelets are one of the most popular sterling silver bracelet styles because they come in a multitude of designs and finishes. Bangles can come in a smooth or textured finish, with various patterns or painted styles. Bangle bracelets can be stacked or worn individually. They are currently popular among Hollywood starlets as well.
Silver Cuff Bracelets: Cuff bracelets are wider than bangles and have an opening on the side instead of a closure. Silver cuff bracelets can be a tasteful gift for older women, and they are generally more expensive that other types of bracelets. A more affordable yet still very popular type of cuff bracelet the granulated style, creating a playful shimmer of light. This bracelet is currently trendy with celebrities such as Lindsay Lohan.
Silver Link Bracelets: These types of bracelets are constructed with closely woven pieces that have an intricate design and lay flat along the arm. A wonderful example of a detailed link bracelet is the Byzantine style link bracelet, which has an intriguing aura due to the historically accurate linking knots. One of the most popular sterling silver bracelet styles for men is the bike chain link bracelet.
Silver Chain Bracelets: One of the most popular sterling silver bracelet styles in general is the silver chain bracelet. These bracelets are classic, timeless, versatile, and work with many types of outfit styles. Chain bracelets can be worn as a plain silver accent or adorned with charms to become a charm bracelet. These types of bracelets make beautiful engagement or birthday gifts.
Silver Charm Bracelets: Although this bracelet style is popular in most metals, the affordability of silver has made them a fashion trend as well as a collector’s item for travelers. Many tourist stops now have charms available with symbols of the area, such as the Eiffel Tower from Paris or a double-decker bus from London. Charm bracelets were very popular in the mid-20th century and have recently reemerged in popularity with teens and young adults.
Silver Single Stone Bracelets: Simple silver bracelets with a single charm or gemstone are also one of the most popular sterling silver bracelets styles today because of the special meaning they can carry. A single stone or charm can carry personal meaning for the recipient, making these types of bracelets exquisite timeless gifts for people of all ages.
Caring for Sterling Silver Bracelets
Caring for sterling silver bracelets is simple when a bit of caution is used. Avoid contact with sprays and lotions such as hair spray, body lotions, and sun block. Always remove silver bracelets before working with bleach, ammonia, alcohol or finger nail polish removers, as these every day chemicals can cause the silver to tarnish.
Proper storage for sterling silver bracelets is also key to avoiding tarnish. A storage drawer or cabinet made for jewelry storage is ideal because it’s a cool and dry air-tight space. Ziploc bags are also a good solution, especially if anti-tarnishing strips are added.
If a bracelet hasn’t been worn for a few months, it may require minor cleaning such as a gentle rubbing with a soft cloth. For more in-depth cleaning of sterling silver bracelets, a soft bristled toothbrush and a little t.l.c. can go a long way. Remember to be gentle and use caution when cleaning any jewelry. When in doubt, consult a professional.
Remember that the most valuable sterling silver bracelets are the ones that are given to us by friends and loved ones. Regardless of the price of a bracelet, it can carry a whole lot of meaning while reflecting your own personal style.