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. A bangle can be gold, crystal or leather, formed from minerals like amber or jade, beaded together with enamel or acrylic bead and even tied together with bamboo. Modern bangle designs incorporate a hinged and clasp system that opens and closes around the wrist. A bangle can be thin or chunky in design depending on the individual taste and fashion statement.
The difference between a bangle and a standard bracelet is a bangle bracelet is solid and rigid in material design; in comparison, standard bracelets typically incorporate a flexible link or sting design. To slip the bangle on you compress the hand placing the thumb towards the little finger and gentle slid the bangle over the hand. The width of bangle is slightly smaller then the hand preventing it from falling off.
The word bangle dates back to 1787 and derives from the Hindi bangli and earlier Hindi bungri referring to glass. On an historical note, earlier versions of shell and copper bangle rings have been discovered on several archeological sites in India dating back up to 2500 years. Today bangle jewelry merchants sell their products in many open street markets. Wearing of bangle jewelry is common in India especially among the Hindus who wear bangles as a sign of marital status. Married men will sometime wear a single bangle called a kada. It is also customary for the father of a Sikh bride to give the groom a gold ring.
The practical use of jewelry to symbolize status and wealth predates modern civilization. In primitive cultures, valuable materials formed into bangles and necklaces where transported and worn by women, the type of material and the number of discs going up the arm indicated status within the community and accumulative wealth. Even today, 14k gold and crystal bangle remain the traditional favorite among Indian women. Ladies take great pride in displaying their prized antique and vintage possessions during festival and wedding ceremonies.
While bangles are synonymous with Indian culture they are also used symbolically in other Asian and middle eastern countries. 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. The material used to create the bans can range from shells, wood, copper etc… A skilled and imaginative artisan will utilize any material that he or she can mold into a rigid band. Ladies still prefer 14k gold and sterling silver bands with intricate artistic designs etched into the rings. Men’s bangle jewelry remains traditional, simple and plain in design.
Despite the historical value and traditional use of the bangle in Indian culture, high quality gold and crystal bangles are slowly being replaced with cheaper acrylic and enamel products. It is also becoming less common to see women with multiple sets of rings covering the entire forearm in lieu of a single set on each arm. This is unfortunate because cheap imitations take away from the distinct jingling, almost magical sound a high quality bangle makes. Cheaper plastic-type products tend to be dull and hollow sounding. The more expensive semi-precious gemstones like garnet, amethyst and onyx are being substituted with rhinestone type bead material.
Most western societies do not have the same symbolic or traditional appreciation when it comes to the bangle. Instead, western cultures tend to reference the bracelet as costume jewelry, 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. The material used ultimately determines the cost, 14k gold is more valued the silver, additional factors include the unique color or the glass, pink and rose color is preferred, and the detail and artistic designs etched or engraved into the rings. There actually is a town in northern India that still makes these amazing glass pieces.
Today most bangle bracelet have glass or rhinestone type stones taking away from the past glamour and beauty. The type of materials and style will vary depending on where the bangle is manufactured. Most low quality custom grade bangles are mass-produced in south Asian countries. Specific designs and metals are unique to the region the bracelet is made. Many gemstones are common in some regions and extremely rare in others. Due to this reality, the cost of a specific style will vary from one location to another. Bangle bracelets are common in both gold and silver. The 14k bangle is very popular but sterling silver bangle bracelets are more affordable. If you want to find a perfect gift give her a charm bracelet and attach a heart, butterfly or flower charm. Best advice is to shop around and perhaps find a local designer that is willing to barter and give you the best regional price.
Why buy when you can make your own. Depending on your skill and resources, you can easily create your own bangle bracelet. Creating your own designs can be a fun craft hobby for the entire family. To make a simple rhinestone bracelet just cut a piece of wire about 8 to 10 inches long and add what ever color bead you desire and clamp the ends. A trick to get the right size is to measure around a flattened hand and add extra for the width of the bead being used. This should make the bracelet tight slipping over the hand and loose around the wrist. Have fun with young children by molding rings out of clay or paper-mache. Color or paint then to create unique designs or gifts. If you are handy with jewelry tools you can buy sterling silver or gold wire and apply different bending styles to create all types of designs.
