 Italian charms are little rectangular pieces of metal bearing a symbol, saying, or picture that can be link to one
another very easily. What is so unique about Italian charms is that there is a charm for just about every mood or occasion. You generally wouldn't see two people wearing the same exact bracelet. The reasons why Italian charm bracelets are so
popular is that they are relatively inexpensive, easy to wear, and their selections are quite broad. |
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Italian charms date back as far as the Neolithic era. Generally, a person would pick up an unusual stone or piece of wood and carry it with him to ward off his enemies.
The Egyptian Pharaohs found precious stones and metals and they made elaborate jewelry from them. Because the ancient Egyptian people had so little time on earth - about 30 year's - they prepared for a prosperous life after death. With that said, Italian
charms played an important role in the preparation process.
Charm bracelets were used as protective shields and ways of showing one's status.
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 In the 1940's, a series of gumball charms were very popular amongst children. They were made of
inexpensive plastic and were found in gumball machines.
Many themes were common - jungle animals, sports, sailing, and family pets. Also, a number of commercial themes came into play like Popeye, Betty Boop, Mickey Mouse, and the Seven Dwarves.
In the 1950's, the Italian charm bracelets became a very popular accessory amongst girls and women. Special occasions like a girl's sixteenth birthday, graduation, and wedding were made into a charm.
Amazingly, some vintage bracelets sell for a few thousand dollars at auctions! |
During the early 1970's, the charm bracelet began to fade out and got replaced by the disco era and bare gold chains became the new trend. But in the 1980's, the charms reappeared and the charms that had been out of circulation for a few decades were showing
up in antique stores and flea markets.
In 1987, the Italian charms has become one of the most popular and fashionable items in the last decade.
Like its name, Italian charm bracelets were obviously made in Italy. Some different kinds of charms available are animals, alphanumeric, birthstones, Zodiac signs, sports, and the list goes on and on!
Because there are such a wide variety of choices between charms, they appeal to a wide variety of audiences. From ages 8 to 108, kids and adults alike appreciate them. Part of the fun in Italian charms in collecting them and changing them depending on what kind
of mood you are in.
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