The 5 best styles of sterling silver bracelets today

 

Silver has been considered a precious metal since its first use in ancient times, and silver bracelets have always been popular as an adornment, for both men and women. But before we discuss the 5 most popular silver bracelet designs, let's review what "sterling silver" is because the term is often misunderstood. Sterling silver, or standard silver, is an alloy of 92.5% silver with 7.5% copper. This combination is harder than pure silver, allowing for greater durability over jewelry. Many sterling silver jewelry is covered with a thin layer of fine silver to give it a shiny finish. Pure silver does not tarnish, but sterling silver does. So I conclude this article with some tips on how to care for sterling silver jewelry.

Popular designs of sterling silver bracelets

Silver bracelets include various styles such as bracelet, bangle, link, chain, and charm bracelets. Each has its own appeal and also its own types of customers. If you are considering gifting a silver bracelet, check out these designs and your "target" Cartier Bracelet.

Bangle Bracelets - Available in designs ranging from smooth finishes to textured, patterned, and painted styles. The popularity of cuff and bangle bracelets encourages the wearing of multiple bracelets at the same time. Popular with teenagers and currently the star scene in Hollywood. Great for the young at heart!

Cuff Bracelets: These fashion bracelets are wider than bangles and have a slit on one side to slide over the arm. Silver bracelets can be a tasteful gift for an older woman, but they are also more expensive than other types. Another popular, but less expensive type of bangle bracelet is grainy, which creates a fun light glow. This bracelet is currently in fashion with celebrities, like Linsay Lohan.

Link Bracelets: These are tightly woven pieces that are intricately designed, but are gently crafted to lie flat along the arm. A wonderful example of a detailed link bracelet is the Byzantine style link bracelets, which have a mysterious aura due to the historically accurate binding knots. For men, a well-woven link bracelet that resembles a chainmail is popular with many men, thanks to the resurgence of Roman culture in our fictional movies and amusements.

Silver Chain Bracelets - Perhaps the most classic style that works with most outfits and is available in the widest variety. These chain style bracelets can be turned into charm bracelets by adding embellishments to the chain links or they can be used as a simple silver accent. These are great for engagement gifts and coming of age.

Charm Bracelets - Popular in most metals, but the affordability of silver has made these bracelets 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. These were very popular in the mid-20th century and have recently become popular, especially with young teens.

Other types of charm bracelets are simple silver bracelets with a single charm, such as a gold-filled pearl or gemstone that has a special meaning for the recipient. These bracelets can be found with a single charm or with a variety of stones and even engraved tokens that became popular in Victorian times.

Caring for sterling silver jewelry

Now that we understand the basics of silver bracelets, how easy is it to maintain? Caring for silver is easy when you have a little caution. Any time contact with sprays and lotions such as hairspray, body lotions, and sunscreen can be avoided is beneficial for jewelry. Always remove silver bracelets before working with bleach, ammonia, alcohol, or nail polish remover. Many of these everyday chemicals can cause silver to tarnish.

Simply using silver regularly can prevent deep tarnishing. Proper storage of silver bracelets is also key to avoiding tarnishing. A jewelry storage drawer or cabinet is a good option, as they provide the cool, dry, and airtight spaces that work best. Even resealable plastic bags can be a good solution, especially if anti-tarnish strips are added.