Besides a wedding or graduation ring, there is a piece of jewelry on the market that has the capacity to signify some of the best moments in your life. Charm bracelets are placed around the wrist with numerous decorative trinkets dangling about. These small pendants are meant to symbolize the things most important to whoever wears them.

Often, charm bracelets are started at a memorable point in a person's life, usually given to them as a gift. This is referred to as a starter bracelet and every once in a while, as new events and memories arise, the wearer will add to their bracelet. A perfect example of this is when an expectant first-time mother receives a charm bracelet. She may add to the bracelet after her child is born during various milestones. Relevant charms include baby booties, pacifier, a tooth, teddy bear and their initials.

The History of Charm Bracelets

Charm bracelets have a history dating back to the Neolithic era and were used as a way to ward off evil. The jewelry form of these amulets weren't fully realized until Egyptian Pharaohs began creating charm bracelets from pieces of metal and precious stones. During the early 20th century, charm bracelets became a feverish fad as Queen Victoria began wearing them. This time, additional items were placed on the bracelets, such as glass beads, family crests and small lockets containing images of loved ones.

The Charm Bracelets of Today

Today, anyone can have an interest in charm bracelets, whether it is for the art of collecting or to display their warm memories. They are given to love ones on the day of their graduation, wedding or sweet sixteen-birthday party. Best friends, mothers and bridesmaids are also common wearers of charm bracelets. A mother may have a charm to represent each one of her children.

Charm bracelets can be obtained from catalogs, department stores, antique jewelers, as well as fashion boutiques. You never know when one will present itself. Charm bracelets and their accessories are often tucked away in hotel gift shops and art shows, as well as flea markets.

Choosing a Charm Bracelet & Charms

There are three main sizes to choose from when picking out a charm bracelet: small, medium and large. This may also determine the amount of links available for a charm. For instance, a medium bracelet provides room for 18 charms. The number of links can always be subtracted or added at any time. Once you have the bracelet, the next important thing is to collect the charms. When choosing charms, you should familiarize yourself with their meanings. For example, a ballerina signifies that your dreams will come true. Elephants stand for cherished memories and a key symbolizes a happy home.

Charm Bracelet Prices

Depending on where you purchase a charm bracelet, you will find that the market is filled with numerous price ranges. Some can cost as little as $5, while others may set you back $500. It is the quality, material and charm detail that often dictates the price of a charm bracelet. Today, Italian charm bracelets are quite popular. The age of the charm bracelet is also a factor. There are vintage pieces that date back to the 1930s that will fetch quite a high price.

Whoever is responsible for creating your charm bracelet will also influence the price. For example, a diamond and platinum charm bracelet from Tiffany & Co costs $15,000 with nature-themed charms attached, such as a dragonfly and salamander. The Louis Vuitton charm bracelet costs $25,000 and features a bottle of champagne and a charm of the world. Often, these bracelets are given as gifts without the intention of charm collecting.