The Origins Of Charms | Lifestyle

by SaritSimayof

Most people would be hard pressed to think of a more versatile piece of jewelry than charms. These delicate yet often very elaborate miniature pieces can be used on charm bracelets, added to hoop earrings or even attached to necklaces as pendants. Silver charms and gold charms alike are popular either as unique additions to a bracelet or chain or as part of a collection of charms.

The great thing about charms and charm bracelets is that each one is individual and different. There are really no guidelines or fashion rules when it comes to how to wear charms. Different types of metals, different styles and even matching with other jewelry are all popular options for wearing charms and charm bracelets.

Charms actually date back to some of the earliest forms of jewelry. The first recognizable use of the charm bracelet goes back to the type of Egyptian Pharaohs. The precious metals were shaped into symbols that were of importance to the wearer of the bracelet as well as the gods. People were buried with their charm bracelets on as a way to provide information that would go with them to the afterlife.

In early Christian times a charm in the shape of a fish was used by secret groups to safely and quietly identify themselves as Christians. The Jewish religion also used amulets that contained very tiny scrolls as ways to keep their faith close to them. It is very likely that these early traditions led to both charms as well as the lockets that are still highly popular in modern times.

Charms continued to be used to keep away bad spirits even into the Middle Ages and up to the Renaissance period. Some of these types of gold and silver charms were very detailed and became the modern good luck charms still in use.

Queen Victoria of England again revitalized the charm bracelet and the use of charms as a fashion accessory in the early 20th century. Charms that included family crests, flags and landmarks from different countries became very popular.

The first and second World Wars also contributed to the fashion trend of wearing silver and gold charms. Soldiers visiting foreign countries wanted to bring home small, easy to carry and pack items, so local jewelry makers fashioned small mementos of the landmarks and objects found within their country. Wives and girlfriends and family members then placed these charms on bracelets in larger collections, more like the charm bracelets we know.

Now modern charms come in a variety of materials. While most are metal they also have additions of cut glass, crystal, semi-precious and precious gems and even different types of beads. There is no doubt that charm bracelets and charms of different types are definitely here to stay.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.

World of Charms is the main place for charms for bracelets. With more than 20 years in the jewelry industry this family owned business is today the main place to buy silver and gold charms and charm bracelets both off-line in one of their many retail stores or online in their website. Check World of Charms verity of styles charms jewelry when looking to buy charms as gifts or for your own bracelet.