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Oxidised Bangles
An oxidised bangle is a continuous ring of silver worn on the wrist. Oxidisation is a process of tarnishing the metal, creating a dark surface patina by exposing it to sulphur or sulphur compounds. Oxidisation can change the metal colour to black, dark grey, dark brown, or green. Though silver does tarnish slowly over time when exposed to air, chemicals, perfumes, and salt water, bangles are treated to oxidisation to enhance their aesthetic appeal and protect them from corrosion. While previously sterling silver was the most commonly used metal for oxidised bangles, today, copper, brass and cheaper alloys are used to create the same contrasting effect. The history of oxidised bangles is deeply intertwined with the evolution of metal craftsmanship across ancient civilisations. The circular shape of the bangles, with no beginning and no end, has always represented totality, infinity, eternity and re-birth. Their shape and use have resonated for over 5000 years, from the ancient civilisations of Mohenjo-Daro, Egypt, Greece, and Rome to the Huns and Scythian cultures. Also, native African, Arabian, and American tribes have used oxidised bangles. Copper and bronze were the first metals to be discovered and used by the people of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The excavation of the dancing girl figurine wearing bangles from Mohenjo-Daro indicates that a bangle-wearing culture existed then. It continued through Vedic India between 1500 and 1200 BCE and the Iron Age India from 1200 to 600 BCE, with metalsmiths also crafting bangles from iron, silver, and gold. During these significant eras, metalsmiths made progress in their craft, but it was much later, around 1100 AD, when they discovered they could tarnish some metals manually using sulphur. Since then, oxidised jewellery has played a significant role in Indian adornment. Tribes like the Bhils, Santhals, and Gonds of the states of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and the Chotanagpur Plateau have produced some of the most exquisite oxidised jewellery. Royals in ancient Egypt used oxidisation techniques on silver and gold jewellery. They wore oxidised bangles as a status symbol and to ward off evil. They even buried their mummies with oxidised bangles, necklaces and amulets. The Romans and Greeks, too, used oxidisation to highlight the patterns on bangles. Their metalsmiths created clever contrast in bangles using oxidisation. During Renaissance and Baroque periods in Europe, tarnished silver jewellery was used as mourning jewellery. Further, oxidised bangles were used by the Huns and Scythians of Central Asia and the Navajo and Zuni tribes of Native America. In Ethiopia, Mexico and the Middle East, oxidised bangles have been used for centuries in traditional weddings.
Diving into the Design
The popularity of oxidised bangles has soared among women looking for affordable vintage aesthetics. While buying oxidised bangles, one must consider the differences between modern and traditional oxidised bangles. Both vary in design, motifs, materials, craftsmanship, and overall aesthetic.
Traditional bangles feature ornate designs with intricate layering inspired by culture and religious beliefs. They also represent specific ethnic styles. Traditional oxidised bangles are objects of beauty and adornment. On the other hand, the designs on modern oxidised bangles are more practical and reflect the changing tastes of today's financially independent women. Modern oxidised bangles lean towards minimalistic designs with clean lines and geometric shapes.
The motifs on traditional and contemporary oxidised bangles differ. Traditional oxidised bangles contain motifs inspired by local tribal patterns, flowers and leaves, animals and birds, mythological creatures, deities, and cultural symbols. Modern oxidised bangles have a completely different look as they use motifs that contain abstract shapes and asymmetrical patterns. These motifs only use elements of flora and fauna, the oceans, stars, and the moon. The motifs may also be contemporary symbols of hearts, peace signs, infinity marks, tree of life, pop art, etc.
Materials make a difference as they affect the final pricing of the bangle. While traditional oxidised bangles are sterling silver and sometimes gold, their modern counterparts contain copper, brass and silver alloy. Traditional oxidised bangles contain precious and semi-precious stones, whereas modern oxidised bangles contain semi-precious stones, synthetic stones, or glass.
The fine craftsmanship of traditional bangles makes them heirloom pieces apt for cultural, religious, and traditional events. Traditional oxidised bangles are hand-crafted, have detailed designs, and are heavier and one-of-a-kind. On the other hand, modern oxidised bangles are machine-made using the latest techniques like CAD, 3D printers, etc. These mass-produced modern bangles are versatile, lightweight, practical, more affordable and comfortable for everyday use.
While traditional and contemporary oxidised bangles differ in all these aspects, they share some common elements that bridge the gap between them. For instance, both feature an oxidised finish, have metalwork consisting of engravings, use studded gemstones, draw inspiration from the past, and are pretty versatile in design. Oxidised bangles, whether traditional or modern, are just one example of the rich diversity found in Indian jewellery, showcasing timeless craftsmanship and evolving trends
Occasions
Oxidised bangles are available in plain, studded, engraved, filigree, hammered, and other styles. With oxidised bangles, the possibilities are endless. Traditional and modern oxidised bangles can be worn on several occasions, from cultural events to celebrations and formal events to festivals.
You can adorn a set of oxidised bangles on Diwali, Dussehra, Holi, Navratri, or Christmas. Oxidised bangles reflect India’s rich heritage and are more affordable than gold or silver bangles. On festivals, wear a wristful of oxidised bangles or a statement piece with sarees, lehengas, and salwar kameez. Similarly, you can wear oxidised bangles to wedding functions. Get different styles of oxidised bangles to wear for the mehendi, sangeet, haldi, and reception. Whether you are the bride wearing oxidised gold or the bride’s best friend wearing oxidised silver, you are sure to shine!
Celebrating art and culture is another occasion to dress in traditional oxidised bangles for a unique look. Pair them with other oxidised jewellery like a chunky necklace or jhumka earrings to attend a classical dance performance, a play, or a cultural fair. Oxidised bangles reflect a connection to traditional craftsmanship and can be the perfect conversation starter. Likewise, you can carry off a similar look to other social gatherings like a kitty party or a family get-together. Oxidised bangles are also the perfect accessory for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
Oxidised bangles can be a stylish accessory for office wear and corporate events. A simple modern oxidised bangle should match the formality of your outfit. Whether you're going for a picnic or a coffee date, attending college, or window shopping with friends, oxidised bangles add effortless style to your casual outfits. You can also carry mix-and-match bangles on your travel trip to match boho outfits, beach wear, shorts, and flowy dresses.
Oxidised bangles can beautifully transition from a daytime look to an evening glam party look. Wear the right style and coordinate with other jewellery to get the impeccable look. Whatever the occasion, the subtle sparkle of oxidised bangles can elevate any outfit, whether casual, partywear, ethnic, or Western wear.
How to Style a Oxidised Bangles
Any ensemble you wear must include a few accessories to transform your look. The oxidised bangle’s timeless elegance, modern styles, and affordable pricing have wooed women young and old. So, before you fill your jewellery box with the quintessential oxidised bangles, here are a few styling tips.
Since oxidised bangles add a touch of vintage charm, they look great with traditional attire. Wear a pair of heavy and ornate oxidised bangles with your silk saree, embroidered lehenga, or trendy salwar suit. Oxidised bangles pair well with white, black, brown, olive, navy, and yellow. You can even match any embellished gemstones with the colour of your traditional outfit. Oxidised bangles look awesome in contrasting colours like orange or pastel pink.
On the other hand, oxidised silver or gold bangles look classy when paired with a black cocktail dress or crisp white shirt. Modern oxidised bangles can up the dressing quotient when styled right with Western outfits. Oxidised bangles act as the perfect add-on for monochromatic ensembles. An oxidised bangle cuff can become the focal point of a monochromatic salwar suit or pantsuit.
Remember to mix and match your oxidised bangles. Combining oxidised bangles with other sterling silver or gold bangles is in-trend right now and creates a striking contrast.
One can even mix modern oxidised bangles with contemporary bangles or plain bangles with gemstone studded bangles.
Oxidised bangles are the perfect accessory for festive ensembles. You can go for a statement cuff if the outfit is extravagant and vice versa. If the outfit is simple, stack up to draw attention to your wrist or create a balanced look with an equal number of bangles on both wrists. Also, remember while doing so to stick to a theme. For instance, if the kurti has mango motifs, select traditional paisley design bangles to go with them. Finally, if you are styling oxidised bangles with casual outfits like jeans or summer dresses, limit other accessories. Likewise, for daily use, choose a modern oxidised bangle to be the lady en vogue!
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