Bracelets vs Bangles vs Cuffs... Decoding the Style Differences
What is the difference between BRACELETS, BANGLES, and CUFFS?
Many of you know my obsession with archeology, so imagine my sheer awe when this 40,000-year-old accessory was excavated next to the remains of a Paleolithic girl in Siberia.
Photo credit of the world’s oldest bracelet: Anatoly Derevyanko and Mikhail Shunkov, Anastasia Abdulmanova
The researchers called it a “bracelet”, but I got serious cuff vibes (and a little envy). This observation inspired my own quest to get to the bottom of…
WHAT IS A BRACELET?
Broadly speaking the term “bracelet” can encompass bangles, cuffs, and beyond, but I view bracelets as adornments made with flexible components secured with a clasp or other closure. Today we often think of linked metal chains and gemstones worn on wrists, ankles, or upper arms, but there are so many ways to tie or string an endless array of materials onto our bodies!
WHAT IS A BANGLE?
Bangles are completely solid or closed forms that fit over your hand. Modern bangles often have a mechanical hinge and closure for ease and security. From bone to gemstones to wood to precious metal, our ancient ancestors LOVED a bangle stack as much as we do!
WHAT IS A CUFF?
Cuffs are a close-fitting open piece of jewelry that slides securely over your wrist or upper arm. They can be a thin or wide band of metal, stone, or other material. The design of the archaeological treasure above is as gorgeous and relevant today as it surely was for the ancient Denisovans who created it!
From glamourous to edgy to playful, shop a curation of discerning bracelets, bangles, and cuffs that address your wardrobe needs and reflect your values…
WONDER WOMAN: DEBRA NAVARRO
While Wonder Woman may rock powerful wrist cuffs, Debra’s bracelets are empowering inside and out, as each of her collections honor and celebrate our journey through life as women!
From her signature “tenda” cut that reveals the soul of her colored gemstones to the traceable, ethical diamonds that support young girls, women, and the environment, her bracelets create a positive social impact.
ETERNALLY GOLDEN: GWEN BELOTI
Our Bronze Age ancient ancestors LOVED a bangle stack as much as we do and Gwen’s gold stacking bracelets with diamonds at the end are divine.
Think of these open bangle bracelets as a modern interpretation of torque jewelry!
Make a statement with these minimalist jewelry staples, worn solo or together.
ELEMENTALS: KRISTIN HANSON
Creative freedom, fierce power, continual flow, yet grounded. These are the elemental qualities of water, fire, air, and Earth… and us as women!
Kristin Hanson’s work celebrates the unexpected beauty and wonder of Mother Nature - and us as women.
COLOR AND DIAMONDS ARE ALWAYS GOOD IDEAS: J FINE
Blue, pink, yellow, or colorless diamonds are ALL beautiful bangle ideas as anniversary gifts, birthday gifts, celebrating milestones, or just because! This is especially the case with J FINE, as these handmade diamond bangles are set with rare Argyle Diamonds, responsibly sourced from Australia.
The half eternity bands and the floral bangles are customizable and made to order as singles or sets starting at $4,500.
PRECIOUS AND RAW: FERAL JEWELRY
Susan is known for her wild, yet glamorous design aesthetic that is inspired by Mother Nature’s untamed beauty in unexpected ways.
On point are her Vine and Thorn bangles which are perfect for fierce and fearless women! With thorns scattered with diamonds, this statement piece can be made in silver or gold. They are even more memorable stacked together as a pair of alternating white and yellow gold.
What a gorgeous way to go FERAL!
Meet Susan and her jewelry
SYNTHESIZING THE ANCIENT WITH THE MODERN: DUBINI JEWELLERY
Benedetta’s work celebrates and honors our shared cultural histories and mythologies through jewelry. In the case of her bracelets, she sets ancient coins into modern designs that drip with unique dynamism!
If there was ever a timeless power jewel for the boardroom, this is it!
DM me to learn more about these jewels, starting at $990.
THE BRILLIANT CONCIERGE: YOUR FINE JEWELRY GUIDE
I find discerning jewelry that aligns with your values. Beyond gemstone sourcing, this includes private shopping for:
rings
earrings
necklaces
bracelets
responsibly sourced gemstones
Learn more about this white-glove service.