If you're looking for a single, elegant piece for someone who doesn't wear a lot of jewelry, charm bracelets are right out. For someone who does like to jingle, though, they can make unforgettably thoughtful gifts, especially because they're usually themed.
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Things to look for in this type of bracelet:
*Strong connectors. Sturdy jump rings are good, soldered or split rings are better, wire-wrapping is best.
*Fullness. My bracelets are generally delicate, classy pieces with evenly spaced, mostly symmetrical arrangements of charms, simply because I prefer to wear that type myself. If you're buying for someone who wears bold, artistic, over-the-top jewelry, consider sellers like these instead.
*Easy clasps. See the comparison of lobster and toggle clasps below.
For truly easy wear, consider a memory bracelet instead. These bracelets simply wrap around the wrist and hold in place. They're a great choice for people with arthritic or clumsy fingers, and they're stylish and current on everyone -- a memory-wire cuff imitates the shape and thickness of a large cuff bangle, without the annoying size and movement.
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Things to look for in this style:
*Bead size. Are the differently-sized beads arranged in a pleasing pattern? Small beads make these very delicate, larger ones make them bold statement pieces.
*Length. Generally speaking, you want at least one coil with significant overlap. If the bracelet is shorter than the circumference of the wrist, the bracelet may be uncomfortable on the thin skin of the inner wrist. It takes many, many coils for these bracelets to be too thick, and keep in mind that the diameter of the unstretched wire is usually smaller than that of a wrist!
*Dangles and charms. Elements that hang from the body of the bracelet, if any, should all hand in the same direction. I usually put them all on the last coil so they can hang gracefully over the hand.
Many kinds of lobster claw bracelets are traditional, adjustable and very secure. Many people find lobster clasps hard to fasten, though, so they're best as gifts for those who don't live alone and will have help accessorizing. An adjustable lobster clasp and chain closure is perfect when you aren't quite sure of the recipient's size.
Available here.
Things to look for in this type of bracelet:
*Clasp size. If buying in person, make sure the clasp is sized to slip easily through the fastening ring or chain.
*Length. Make sure you're not buying a child's bracelet for a large-boned woman, or vice-versa! Adjustability is best if you're really unsure of size; most people's wrists are about seven inches around, give or take an inch.
The last word in easy fastening is toggle bracelets. Consider them for anyone who might have difficulty with a lobster clasp. They hang easily in necklace racks by the hoop side of their clasp, and many absolutely beautiful toggles are available to designers.
Available here.
Things to consider when purchasing this type of bracelet:
*Clasp style. Toggle bracelets tend to rotate; the clasp should match the rest of the bracelet in metal and in style. The best toggle bracelets incorporate the clasp into the design.
*Stiffness. This isn't something you can worry about when ordering online, but if you're considering buying in person, flex the bracelet. If it flexes easily, it will hold up to wear longer than a very stiff one.
Other things to keep in mind:
*Various types of add-a-bead bracelets are on the market, from the Italian link bracelets to newer Biagi bracelets, slide bracelets and many others. Starting or adding to a collection may be very welcome! Many Etsy sellers provide beads or links for these styles, so you can still buy handmade.
*For people with large hands, bangles and cuff bracelets are often the bane of our existence. If you choose this style, make sure you buy them large enough!
*Screw clasps don't really work for bracelets, as they're nearly impossible to connect and stress the stringing material.
*Most Etsy sellers, me included, are very willing to do custom work. Nothing makes a gift better than knowing it was specially commissioned with you in mind!
Armed with this information, you can choose a bracelet that your loved one will love.
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