For best prices and early deliveries, WhatsApp us at. 918488070070

Cart
Oxidised Bracelets

Oxidised Bracelets

Historians and archaeologists have traced the earliest bracelet to 7,500 BC. Excavated in Turkey, it was carved of obsidian, a natural glass commonly used to make blades and arrowheads. Archaeologists even found evidence that people wore bracelets made of bone, stone, wood, and shells in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China. In 5000 BCE, Egyptians used bones, stones, wood, and coloured glass with feathers to make bracelets. But, much later in the Bronze Age (2000 to 1400 B.C.), when the Egyptians found gold and copper in the Nubian Desert, they began to craft gold bracelets for royalty and copper bracelets for the commoners. The famous Scarab-hinged bracelets, representing rebirth and regeneration, were worn as wrist ornaments and even wrapped with the deceased to protect and guide them in their afterlife. Gold and silver bracelets became more decorative by 1085 BC, containing semi-precious stones and enamelled metals. Even bracelets worn by Egyptian royals had rectangular beads called serekhs, with turquoise, gold, and blue-glazed compositions. In the 13th century B.C., both men and women wore oval, penannular-shaped (circular with a small gap) and trumpet-end bracelets. The Bible in Exodus 35:22 mentions that the Israelites, upon their exodus from Egypt, brought gold bracelets to Mount Sinai, among several other offerings, to construct the divine Tabernacle, the centre of worship and sacrifice. From Egypt, the art of crafting bracelets spread to Europe. In Europe, soldiers began to wear oxidised armlets or bracelets. Also, at that time, Etruscans, the ancient Italians, created the first bracelet with separate, hinged panels. These bracelets had symbols to signify their allegiance to a group. The silver bracelets also served as portable wealth during difficult times. Another popular bracelet design was the plaited silver bracelet with intertwisted silver wire strands. Around the 8th century B.C., the Scythian nobles sported rigid gold bracelets with animal motifs. These Scythian nomadic tribes, as they travelled afar, spread the art of making metal bracelets to southeastern Europe and Asia. Even the Russians and far-off Chinese began to wear bracelets. Typically, everyone wore gold or silver bracelets until the Middle Ages in Europe, when the Church discouraged adornments, calling them unhealthy regard for personal vanity. Then, in the 17th century, bracelets re-emerged as a fashionable accessory for women. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the deliberate use of oxidisation to create special effects on silver bracelets became well-known. In India, too, oxidised metal bracelets have existed since the Indus Valley Civilisation. In various Indian communities, oxidised silver bracelets were worn for their cultural and symbolic meanings. But during the Mughal Era and later colonisation of India, as other jewellery styles took precedence, oxidised silver bracelets found their grounding among various indigenous tribes to become a part of India’s tribal jewellery. The history of oxidised silver bracelets in India is deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage and evolving artistic traditions.

Diving into the Design

 Over the last few years, oxidised bracelets have gained significant attention. Women from all walks of life, from college students to film stars, wear oxidised bracelets. Whether ornate or nouveau style, whether an heirloom piece or recently purchased, oxidised bracelets come in two distinct styles – modern and traditional. Both these types of bracelets are distinct in their aesthetic appeal. Traditional and modern oxidised bracelets differ from one another in terms of design, materials, motifs, and versatility.

 Traditional oxidised bracelets are more intricate and have elaborate designs inspired by cultural and historical events. Mostly heavier in weight, the oxidised bracelets are hand-crafted by skilled artisans. On the contrary, most modern oxidised bracelets have sleek and minimalist designs. Their design is more abstract and incorporates contemporary shapes, geometric patterns, and clean lines. Also, most modern oxidised bracelets are machine-made and mass-produced, keeping the cost of manufacture low.

The materials used in traditional and modern oxidised bracelets are different. While traditional bracelets mostly contain sterling silver and precious stones, most modern-day oxidised bracelets use cheaper alloys and semi-precious or synthetic stones. It lends a completely different look, feel, and wearability, making traditional oxidised bracelets more suitable for weddings, celebrations, or cultural events and modern bracelets for casual day-to-day wear.

 Another factor that can differentiate a traditional oxidised bracelet from a modern one is the motifs used on the bracelet. Traditional bracelets commonly include flowers and leaves like lotus and vines, animals and birds like elephants and peacocks, mythological creatures like unicorns and sphinx, religious symbols like Om and Star of David, and Paisley patterns like mango and pinecone. In contrast, modern oxidised bracelets use motifs that are abstract depictions of flowers and leaves, use modern symbols like hearts and arrows, and contain geometric shapes like circles, triangles, squares, and hexagons. 

Despite their differences, modern and traditional oxidised bracelets have few common elements, too. For example, they share their history and cultural influence. They also have other common elements like the surface finish called “patina”, various motifs used in design, and the usage of base metals like sterling silver or alloy. These shared elements allow for overlapping aesthetics, resulting in fascinating fusion pieces within oxidised jewellery.

arrow_right
arrow_right

Occasions

Oxidised bracelets are so versatile that they can be worn on every occasion. Oxidised bracelets are ideal for festivals. Traditional oxidised bracelets look different from regular gold and silver bracelets. They also complement ethnic wear and are far more affordable and easily accessible. You can opt for a couple of bracelets in sterling silver or alloy to get a new look each time. The same heavy and ornate bracelet can be worn during cultural events, art festivals, and music fairs to create a nostalgic and artistic vibe.

Oxidised bracelets are all about style. To get a unique look for a birthday party, anniversary party, or any celebration, opt for a fusion bracelet that has traditional motifs but features a modern design. Fusion oxidised bracelets go well with colourful or monochromatic party outfits. They even create the perfect boho-chic look.

You can even wear oxidised bracelets with semi-precious stones for casual outings. Match them with your outfit for a different look each time. A delicate bracelet with matching or contrasting gemstones can create a lively vibe. Be it a coffee date, a movie date, or a lunch with friends, oxidised bracelets are just right. These bracelets in the right style look equally good when paired with office clothes. Depending on the dress code, you can wear a delicate oxidised bracelet that blends with the look rather than drawing attention to you.

Oxidised bracelets also make perfect travel companions. There are hundreds of affordable choices that can be paired with a variety of holiday outfits. Also, these bracelets are durable, low-maintenance, and cheaper than gold or platinum bracelets; you can trek or walk on the beach without worry.

How to Style a Oxidised Bracelets

Oxidised bracelets look good on every outfit and every occasion. From formals to festivals and casuals to celebrations, the understated style of oxidised bracelets can elevate any look.

Modern oxidised bangle bracelets, cuff bracelets, or charm bracelets are the right accessories to wear with casual outfits. They look playful with floral dresses, jeans, micro shorts, and flowy skirts. Also, since fusion oxidised bracelets come at very reasonable rates, they are suitable to wear to college or any other casual occasion. Further, you can create a boho-chic vibe with oxidised bracelets. On the other hand, opt for a delicate modern oxidised bracelet with a formal business suit or kurta to keep the look professional. Wear an oxidised bracelet with monochrome or neutral colour outfits to highlight the intricate details of the bracelet. 

Image Credits

Etsy | Priveda Collections | Mayuraj | Ishhaara | Prashanti Sarees | Oxidised Jewellery | The KO Jewellery Shop | The Amethyststore | Oshri | Nykaa | VIP Matrimonial Services