What is a Bangle?

What is a Bangle?

A bangle is a type of bracelet that is designed in a firm, circular shape. Bangles are one of the oldest forms of bracelets around. They are made in many different materials, ranging from the cheap and cheerful plastic bangle that is available in a range of colors and styles to the stylish and elegant platinum or gold bangle. There are many beautiful bangles to suit any personality, style or pocketbook that will make your outfit more interesting. Let's find out more about this popular form of jewelry. You never know - you might just find the bangle you are looking for!

A Quick History of the Bangle

Bangles are probably one of the oldest forms of jewelry. Because of their easy shape, they could be made from inexpensive and expensive materials alike, which means that anyone could own or wear a bangle. Centuries ago, bangles were also carved from a solid piece of wood or bone, with intricate carvings added to the overall design. Other bangles were made using metals such as bronze or silver that were heated up and poured into a cast. The bangle could then be fitted with precious or semi-precious gemstones. Incredibly, such bangles from previous centuries are still being found, and there are many beautiful examples in museums worldwide. In some areas of the world, bangles made from precious metals are still given to children to keep for their future as they can be kept and sold in later years.

How to Wear a Bangle

The beauty of bangles is that they can be worn in many different ways. If the bangles are narrow, for example, you can stack many on the same arm. This is especially effective if you combine many bangles of a similar metal but with different designs. Plain bangles mixed with jeweled bangles is an attractive style. Wearing bangles in this way can dress up a summer outfit, turning it into ethnic, or Boho summer style. Wearing a few precious gold or silver bangles with a stylish evening outfit will also complement the overall look of the outfit, particularly if this is for a formal function, dinner party or evening reception.

The Round Bangle

The plain round bangle is a popular style. They are easy to slip on and off because there is no fastening required. However, you do need to be extra careful not to wear one that is too large for your wrist or you risk losing it. Aim for a bangle that will slip over your wrist with a little pressure. You can make this easier by putting some dish soap on your hands before putting your bangle on. Round bangles are available in a range of designs, from contemporary designs that give the bangle a range of shapes or angles to the more traditional and classic design, such as this 14k Yellow Gold Classic Bangle with Diamonds. 

Torque Bangles

Torque bangles are among the oldest design of bangle. These are circular but have a gap in the bangle, with each end finished with a solid end or similar design. These are among the easiest bangles to fit because of the small gap in the bangle.

Cuff Bangles

Cuff bangles are shaped, as you would expect, like the cuff of a sleeve. These were also traditionally worn and made over many centuries and in many civilizations. Examples of cuff bangles have been found in ancient Egypt; in later centuries, another type of cuff bangle was also made in leather. These days, contemporary jewelry designers are making a range of cuff bangles that will suit any modern outfit. This type of cuff bangle will dress up a plain outfit and turn it into something extraordinary. Sometimes, all you need is one well-designed evening dress, and then you can let jewelry, such as a well-designed cuff bangle like this Elephant Cuff Bracelet, enhance the outfit for you.

Engraved Bangles

Engraving on jewelry is something that has been done for centuries, but it has become very popular in recent years. You can find many examples of loving and affirmative messages that are now engraved on bangles and worn with pride. Some online retailers will also engrave names and messages to order on a bangle, which makes a gift to a loved one even more special. It is also possible to have a special date or favorite symbol engraved on a bangle.

Bangles are a wonderful addition to any jewelry collection, and with the many types and styles of bangle that are now available, there will always be something extra-special to wear for any occasion.