As far back as the Neolithic
era, humankind chose to carry unusual stones or a piece of wood as protection
from enemies or evil spirits. During the time of the Egyptian pharaohs, the
first recognizable charm bracelets and necklaces appeared. These were elaborate
pieces of jewelry made of precious stones and metals. Charms were also used to
identify an individual to the gods in the afterlife.
Much later during the Roman Empire, Christians identified one another with the
"ichthys," or fish charm, they carried beneath their garments to gain
entry into secret worship meetings, held sometimes in the catacombs. Medieval
kings and knights used charms with incantations for protection. Charms could
also represent family origin, political standing and profession. During the
Renaissance as superstitions faded, charms began to lose favor with the more
wealthy and educated. However, in the early 20th century, it was
Queen Victoria who began a charm bracelet trend among the European noble class
during her reign. The Queen took to wearing a bracelet with tiny charm pictures
of her children.
Charm bracelets again found an
audience at the end of World War II. Soldiers returning home from overseas brought
along trinkets made by local craftsmen to give their sweethearts. The charms
represented miniature replicas of notable locations, such as the Eiffel Tower
or Big Ben. Stateside jewelers quickly caught on to the trend and began
fashioning charms for all occasions. Within a decade, the charm bracelet was
the must-have accessory for girls and women. Charm bracelets became popular
gifts for 16th birthdays, graduations, weddings, and births of
children. These tiny links to one's personal history became deeply valued for
their sentimental and material worth.
More recently, Italian charms
became the rage at the turn of the Millennium. A departure from the traditional
hanging trinkets, these bracelets snap into the bracelet rather than dangle
from it. The flat, modular charms link together to form a bracelet, keychain or
other accessory. Zoppini and Nomination are two popular makers of Italian charm
bracelets. Fashion gurus like Louis Vuitton and Juicy Couture have also
launched their own Italian charms.
Meanwhile, in both Europe and
North America, a new modular charm bracelet trend has emerged. These modular bracelets consist of a chain
onto which various beads or charms can be placed. Charms are made from gold,
silver or Murano glass. The bracelet's design allows the wearer to interchange
the charms and create a totally unique look. Beads can also be worn on necklaces,
rings and earrings to make a complete set.
The modular jewelry concept
enjoyed acclaim in Europe before coming to the States. Inspired by Greek
mythology, it combines versatility with fashion to establish beloved charm and
bead bracelets. This jewelry concept also encourages creativity and
individuality through its beautiful designs.
Women can create their own look and style for
every whim or special moment. For example, you can design the Bohemian
romantic, the elegant chic, the raw grace, the 60's flower power, the charmed
sophisticate, the billionaire, the simplistic minimalist, or the pure feminine.
Modular jewelry can be used to reflect a change in mood or to express
personality.
Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry
the full line of Pandora Jewelry. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and
Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more
information, contact Lewis Jewelers at 877-88-LEWIS or visit
www.pandorabraceletsusa.com. |
