The words “Friends are chosen family” could have become a cliche. Granted, it’s something old and has been reused several times, but that is the simple truth of that bond. Every friend is special to us. When life pressures us down with workload and problems, we run to our trusted ones, be it for advice or a little escape. Such friendships are not limited to places and time either. The intimacy of friendship and gratitude can’t be explained in words. So, the best way to go about this is to probably celebrate the beautiful relationship with a word of jewellery. A cute friendship bracelet that symbolises your beautiful memories, captures your little celebrations is the dearest way to give friendships the best magic.
Origins and cultural significance
Friendship bracelets are always in fashion that we don’t realise how iconic and classic traditions these are. It’s important to understand the origin of friendship bracelets to know their significance. It is a trend that emerged in the early 70s and has continued to be followed and loved by many. But what if I tell you friendship bracelets are much more special and have existed for a longer time, probably even for several centuries? Yes! Handicrafts of such kind were even found in the 13th-century Arab cultures and very old Chinese dynasties.
Friendships are strong bonds and the bracelets seemed to have been a symbol of this beautiful, amazing relationship for as long as history can go. There were also traditions, beliefs and understandings of what a friendship band usually looks like and how long it must be worn. For example, the Native American tribes looked at friendship bracelets with a lot of meaning. They traditionally believed that the colours are chosen to represent a friend.
In addition, friendship bracelets have been given and received as a symbol of a profound relationship between two individuals in numerous cultures than we can actually imagine. These bracelets are traditionally designed by hand using a technique known as macrame knotting. The love and labour that goes into making these bracelets are what is usually believed to show the bond of friendship. Eventually, with time, the friendship bracelets have come to take different forms. If the colourful friendship threads decorated our childhood, the more sophisticated bracelet jewellery have come to define our special bonds in adult life.
Interestingly, earlier, in many cultures, people also believed that if the bracelet is ever intentionally removed (as opposed to falling off naturally), it will be seen as the end of the friendship.
Each friendship bracelet is unique in that it reflects the bond two individuals share. Sometimes, you could include significant details that
● Consider the recipient’s style and preferences.
One of the first things to check is the recipient’s style. We know our friends better than anyone else. If you want to give them something special, find something that they like. It could be in terms of options in metal, based on what they usually wear, their personality and a lot more reasons.
● Material durability and comfort
The kind of material you choose for the bracelet is quite important. How durable is this material and how comfortable will it be for your friend? Ask yourself such questions before choosing the material. You could choose from a wide variety of options like metals, gemstones, threads and a lot more innovative choices. If you want to provide something that's long lasting, you will have to also contribute a little more in terms of budget and research. As previously suggested, think of what kind of material your friend would prefer. If they are more outdoorsy, you could find something that is durable and doesn't get easily affected. Since it's something special, choose a material that can endure wear and tear for quite some time.
● Occasions for gifting (birthdays, special events).
Why are you giving this friendship bracelet? Think of the occasion to choose the kind of bracelet you could gift. It could be because it's your friend's birthday or it could mark a special day in their life. So choose a bracelet type that will also suit the occasion.
● Matching bracelets to personalities
This is another important thing to consider while buying a bracelet. If your friend is someone outdoorsy and you get them a very designer, delicate bracelet, it's a wrong choice. They would probably prefer something that's more simple, sturdy.
While taking a shower, use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap to get rid of filth and grime. To bring back the lustre, you can also use a jewellery polishing cloth.
To keep it from rusting and scratching, store your bracelet in an airtight container with separate sections.
Even the finest jewellery beads can be harmed by excessive heat and moisture exposure, so keep your bracelet away from these conditions.
● Affordability - Not all bracelets of high quality are expensive. Check for affordable and quality ones.
● Budget - Think about your budget before choosing the bracelet kind. In case you have minimum budget but want a metal bracelet, you can opt for stainless steel or silver than gold.
● Durability of the bracelet - The durability of the bracelet is important as you choose a high quality one solely because you want it to last long.
● Brand - You can check many branded bracelets that are known for quality to ensure you get a valuable bracelet.
Thread bracelets is the famous and iconic model of friendship bracelets. Isn't the type we all always loved to gift in school? As old as this traditional bracelet might be, it's the living symbol of our friendships and is any day a beautiful bracelet choice. Braided friendship bracelets are especially famous. They are simple and can be maintained easily.
Among the several bracelet designs in thread, a famous one is the chevron bracelet, which is an arrow shaped pattern using multiple colours. They have specific pattern in which this thread is tied to offer you the best experience.
Unlike the common bracelet varieties of thread bracelets, metal isn't the most obvious choice for a friendship bracelet. That said, it's a much more durable choice. Stainless steel bracelets are especially both affordable and long lasting. All metal bracelets give a more elegant touch. If you are looking for options that will make the gift more worthy and unique, metal bracelets are a great choice. And remember, you can customise these metal bracelets based on your choice and make it a special bracelet that's unique to your friendship.
A beaded bracelet is a cuter version of friendship bracelets. It could be made of simple plastic, beads, glass, gemstones and several other options. Glass beads are classy and beautiful. It is one of the elegant bracelets that is affordable and simple. If you are looking for something more playful, plastic beads can be your bet. You can customise all these bracelet kinds and gift your loved ones a piece of your special memory.
Anything you buy needs some care and maintenance to last long. Your friendship might be low maintenance but your bracelet needs some proper maintenance.
Thread bracelets - thread bracelets might easily accumulate dirt and gather oil over time. So you can soak them in mild soap water, use a gentle brush if needed and wipe it dry with a soft cloth.
Metal bracelets - Metal bracelets will lose their shine over time. So you need to regularly clean and maintain it. Use a soft container to always store it. You can buy a jewellery cleaner to clean it. If not, there is always the technique of lukewarm mild-soap water. Soak it and clean it.
Beaded bracelets - glass and gem beaded bracelets need more care. You can use a wet cloth to wipe it clean. In other cases, soak it for a minimal time to clean it. But consult with the buyer once because some gem or glass might be too sensitive.
Always store the friendship bracelt in a proper space, away from water and sunlight. A cool, dry and dark place is ideal. You can have a jewellery box or pouch which is soft to store your bracelets. When you store it the right way, the jewels will not fade easily.
From thread bracelets to metal ones, each friendship bracelt carries a special meaning. You can buy your friend a quality and valuable bracelet from Sunshine Diamonds. Go ahead, get that favourite bracelet for your favourite person and enjoy your special bond.
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