What Does a Bracelet Symbolize?

“A kiss on the hand may feel very, very good, but a diamond and sapphire bracelet lasts forever,” said actor-writer Anita Loos. Of all the jewelry pieces that women (and men, but we won’t go there today!) own and wear, bracelets are probably the most universal and popularly loved too!

So, there are varied opinions about the origin of the word bracelet. Some say it comes from the Greek word ‘brachile’, which means ‘of the arm’. Others believe it originates from the Latin word ‘brachium‘, which just means ‘arm’. Irrespective of the name’s history, bracelets have been worn for a few thousand years now — from the Egyptian civilization to the Indus Valley settlement.

Today, they’re a significant sartorial accessory more than anything else. Whether you want your fun and quirky personality to shine through, or you’re looking to channel a classic and elegant vibe, there’s always a bracelet to help you achieve the desired style.

What Does a Bracelet Symbolize?

Where do we begin? There’s such a lot to say on this since different cultures and generations have interpreted the symbolism of bracelets in various ways, but we’ll try to keep it short. A friendship or a love bracelet, for instance, is self-explanatory; it cements the bond between two people — one who gifts it and the other who wears it. In some cultures, bracelets have come to be regarded as a sacred talisman for good luck. The ancient Greeks wore them in battle (go, Achilles!), to protect their wrists during the war.

Then there are charm bracelets bearing the symbols that resonate with each wearer — right from the sign of their zodiac to the initials of their loved one or the objects and sentiments that hold special meaning in their lives. Indigenous tribes across countries still use bracelets with semi-precious stones as healing tools. In China, jade bracelets are gifted as a token of love and affection, while in India, they wear bracelets with black beads to ward off the evil eye.

Surprisingly, some slight part of the symbolism behind the bracelet is not that positive. Historically, it has also been indicative of and closely linked with slavery, while at the other end of the spectrum, women used to wear it to flaunt their social and financial status.

Conclusion

Decoding the right bracelet design and selecting the one for you might seem tricky and overwhelming initially, given the numerous options at your disposal. But if you approach the task with a mix of instinct and choice, you’ll find yourself choosing the most exquisite one. Gabriel & Co has a fabulous and vast collection of bracelets to suit every occasion and budget, so do not think and discover your favorite picks.