From: http://www.stylefeeder.com/how-to/buying-bracelets
Buying bracelets
Bracelets are a fun fashion accessory and very easy to buy. They come in price ranges to fit any budget and a vast variety of styles to fit any preference. Bracelets are excellent gifts, whether for an acquaintance or for someone special.
While shopping for bracelets, try on as many as you can, because you never know how proportionate a bracelet will look on your wrist until you try it.
Silver bracelets
Silver bracelets have been popular for a long time. Throughout history, civilizations have mined silver and made it into jewelry. Silver tiffany jewelry should be marked “.625″ or higher (meaning it is 62.5% silver or more) if it is genuine. Check with your sales clerk if you cannot find the mark. Silver bracelets are often set with stones, but they are also very beautiful without adornment.
Silver is particularly popular among younger generations because it is a more affordable precious metal. In some rare cases, a person can be allergic to silver, and it can occasionally leave marks on the skins that are easily washed off. You will also want to buy some silver polish to care for your bracelet if it tarnishes.
Gold bracelets
Gold is an expensive precious metal. It has an extensive history of representing the top of the line for jewelry and is revered in almost every civilization today. Genuine gold bracelets will be marked with the amount of pure gold content. This number may be 10k, 14k, 18k or 24k. Because 18k gold (18-Karat) and 24k gold (24-Karat) gold are softer than 10k gold (10 Karat) or 14k gold (14 Karat), they are not usually used to make Tiffany Bracelets. Although it is possible to find jewelry made of 18k or 24k gold, it is advisable that you purchase mostly 14k gold or 10k gold as it is stronger.
Gold is the most popular precious metal for individuals with allergies. Because of the value of gold, it is very important that you study the bracelet for imperfections and a strong clasp, and make sure the clasp is secure every time you wear it…you don’t want to lose that bracelet!
Platinum bracelets
In recent years, platinum bracelets have risen in popularity. Platinum is expensive and many individuals find that it is not worth the extra cost. It looks very similar to silver, but does enjoy some of the same characteristics of gold. Many people with allergies can wear platinum. Platinum is also naturally very strong. Make sure that platinum bracelets have sturdy clasps and that you check the clasp each time you put it on.
Gold is the most popular precious metal for individuals with allergies. Because of the value of gold, it is very important that you study the bracelet for imperfections and a strong clasp, and make sure the clasp is secure every time you wear it…you don’t want to lose that bracelet!
Platinum bracelets
In recent years, platinum bracelets have risen in popularity. Platinum is expensive and many individuals find that it is not worth the extra cost. It looks very similar to silver, but does enjoy some of the same characteristics of gold. Many people with allergies can wear platinum. Platinum is also naturally very strong. Make sure that platinum bracelets have sturdy clasps and that you check the clasp each time you put it on.
Once again, it will be important to check the functional components of the bracelet other cheap tiffany jewelry to make sure that it is able to hold the weight of the stones. Make sure that the clasp closes completely and stays closed. High-quality pearls should have a knot in between each pearl. If they do not have a knot in between each pearl, do not buy them.
Precious stone bracelets
Bracelets with precious stones such as diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires may cost you a pretty penny (they can range into thousands of dollars), but they are prized possessions. Precious stones should be set in a sturdy metal, such as gold, silver or platinum. Stones such as diamonds will also list the total carat weight of the stones on the bracelet. A two-carat diamond tennis bracelet means that all of the stones on the bracelet total two carats; it does not mean that each stone is two carats. For comparison, the average wedding ring is a one-carat diamond.
Because of the value of these bracelets, you do not want to take his chance of losing a stone. The best way to avoid that possibility is to buy the best quality you can afford. A well-made bracelet will ensure that your precious stones do not fall out. In addition, an entire bracelet can fall off a wrist without anyone noticing, so make sure that the clasp is secure when you purchase the bracelet and whenever you wear it afterwards.
Other metal bracelets
Bracelets made of other materials are very popular because they are very inexpensive. However, as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for. Other metal bracelets can sometimes leave marks on your skin, and many individuals have allergies to metals other than silver and gold. Just be sure you are aware of your allergies before purchasing one of these bracelets.
Hemp bracelets
Bracelets made of natural materials have gained popularity in recent years. Hemp bracelets are widely available today and cost very little (many are under $5). They are a bold and nontraditional style choice.
Such a bracelet is typically very lightweight and can be very comfortable - just be sure it complements your wardrobe, as hemp is not considered a formal accessory. Check to see what kind of material is used to hold and fasten the bracelet as well. You will want to make sure it is sturdy enough to last.
Bangles
Bangles are becoming an increasingly popular subset of bracelets. They can be delicate and stackable, so you can wear many at one time, or chunky and oversized, which can serve as a statement piece. If you choose an oversized bangle, it’s usually best to wear it as your only accessory. Bangles often have an ethnic or tribal influence and can really make an outfit…wood is a popular material at the moment. Bangles are also more affordable than bracelets made of precious metal, so you can add more than one to your collection!
No matter what your style or price range, you will be able to find a bracelet to fit it. Just be sure to always check your clasp, and enjoy your bracelet.