Charm bracelets are more than just jewellery; they are an accessory that celebrates the wearer's individuality and accomplishments. Each charm is either reflective of one's hobbies and likes, or a memento from a major milestone. While traditional dangling charm bracelets once dominated the market, two new styles, the Italian and the European, have emerged in recent years. Instead of soldering charms onto a chain linked bracelet, these types of charm bracelets have interchangeable beads or links.

After settling on a style of bracelet, customers should learn about the composition of different charms; some are colourful and made of glass, while others are made from precious metals and gemstones. Becoming familiar with all the options available can help wearers make their charm bracelet the ultimate accessory. When it comes to assembling a charm bracelet and matching charms, wearers must know the differences between the three main types of charm bracelets; moreover, they should follow a simple list of do's and don'ts to ensure they are buying the right charms.

Type of Charm Bracelets

The first piece of information needed when buying a charm is the style of charm bracelet. Traditional charm bracelets dominated the market with its metal links and dangling charms. Italian charm bracelets have flat, rectangular charms that fit around an elastic band. European charms have rounded beads made of various materials that slide onto a metal bracelet. The sections below differentiate between the three main styles of charm bracelets.

Traditional Charm Bracelet

Traditional charm bracelets are a beautiful piece of jewellery, and a full one holds so many nostalgic qualities. The bracelet is chain link and typically made of gold, sterling silver, or other metals. There are an infinite number of charms available from animals to athletics, religious icons to commemorative moments. Charms are given one at a time on special occasions, and then a jeweller solders them onto the bracelet. Of the three types of charm bracelets, traditional model charms are fixed and permanent.

Italian Charm Bracelet

Italian charm bracelets are relatively new to the jewellery market, but they have been well-received by bracelet wearers. Unlike traditional charm bracelets, Italian charms do not dangle nor are they permanent. A typical Italian charm bracelet is made of elastic material and has room for 18 flat, rectangular links. A new bracelet has blank links that are to be replaced by whatever the wearer chooses. The charms are interchangeable and can be rearranged whenever the wearer chooses.

European Charm Bracelet

European charm bracelets take their cue from the Italian models in that the charms are interchangeable; however, instead of flat, square-like links, European charms are essentially rounded beads. Moreover, European charms can be made from glass and enamel, and the bracelet it usually made from metal.