Bangles are known for different names across many different cultures in the world and are considered as one of the oldest wrist ornaments used. They are known to be used not only as accessories by women but also by men. Thee days, bangles are being used for different purposes but mainly in the fashion industry and are seen being donned by celebrities, models and political personalities.

Bangles are traditional ornaments worn by both men and women from South Asian countries. They are known in many different names such as Churi, Urdu, Valayal, and Chura. Some cultures use combinations of bangle bracelets as a means to communicate a message or theme. Depending on the society, this could indicate marital status, coming of age and designation or status within the tribe. Bangles are traditionally worn to symbolize marriage for women. In Indian culture, bangles are used to symbolize marriage. Married women are required to wear as many bangles -which they did not purchase – as they can. Married men on the other hand wear a single bracelet on the arm of wrist which is known as the kada and is customarily given by the bride’s father. Earlier forms of bangles are made of shell, copper, bronze, gold, agate, and chalcedony. A number of these kinds of bangles were excavated from multiple archaeological sites in Asia.

The definition and traditional meaning of the word bangle, is a stiff solid round ring approximately 3 to 4 inches in diameter that slips over the hand and loosely hangs on the wrist. Bangles can be smooth, textured or with set stones depending on ones preference. Glass bangles worn in groups are common among Indian women while their children wear thin gold bangles on their hands and ankles. For most western women on the other hand, wearing bangles is more often a fashion statement. Western cultures tend to reference the bracelet as costume jewelry or a fashion accessory to highlight or accent a desired outfit. Artisans have learned to incorporate the bangle into complete fashion sets consisting of bangle, earrings necklace and watch creating stunning accessories. The most sought after bangle bracelets have diamond, pearl, sapphire and other precious gemstone inlaid into intricately designed 14k yellow or white gold or sterling silver bands.

Bangles have three main types which people can choose from, namely, stretch, incomplete and regular bangles. The first type of bangle is the stretch bangle bracelet. This type of bangle is the stiff solid round ring that easily fits on the wrist. With this type, there is no worry about your getting your bracelet hooked as all you have to do is to slip it over your wrist. Incomplete bangle bracelet is a type of bangle which is not full circle. It has an opening in one side where the user can easily insert their wrist and not have to worry about the clasp. The third and last kind of bangle is the regular bangle which comes plain, with charms or in all different colors and materials. They can be thick or thin or they can have gemstones or engravings. Regular bangles make great accessories for any outfit and any occasion.

A bangle is a piece of jewelry that all women can enjoy wearing no matter what their purpose is. They can come in different designs and plenty of adornments depending on ones preference. Bangles are so easy to wear – just slide them onto and off of the arm. There’s no way to make a “mistake” when wearing bangle bracelets.

Muriel Stockholm loves all kinds of bangles. Muriel’s latest purchase is an Armreif Angebote which according to her is the perfect accessory for all sorts of different outfits and occasions.