Some use the terms bracelet and bangle interchangeably, but this isn’t always correct. While a bangle is always also a bracelet, not all bracelets are bangles. A bracelet is a piece of jewelry that goes around your wrist, while a bangle is a specific type of bracelet with unique features. Learn more about this classic bracelet style as we go over what makes a bangle different from other bracelets.
The Difference Between Bangles and Bracelets
Many bracelets are made of linked pieces that make them flexible, but bangles are inflexible by design. A bangle is a hard, rigid bracelet that’s shaped like a ring. The most classic type of bangle has no closure, so the wearer puts it on by slipping it over their hand. Some bangles have hinges that allow them to open and close, which allows them to sit tighter on the wrist because they don’t have to be large enough to slip over a hand.
The Origin of Bangles and Bracelets
Humans have worn bracelets for thousands of years. We know that bracelets have existed for at least 7,000 years, when people in Ancient Egypt made bracelets from materials like stones and branches. It’s believed that these ancient bracelets reflected spiritual interests, rather than acting solely as fashion accessories.
The term bracelet comes from the Greek word brachile (“of the arm”), which itself is a variation of the Old French word bracel. The word bangle comes from the Hindi word bangri (“ring-shaped armlet”).
The earliest known bangle bracelets date back to 2600 BC, when people in ancient India made bangles from many different materials. Bangles made of seashell, bronze, copper, gold, chalcedony and agate have been excavated from various sites in India.
The Difference Between Bangle Bracelets and Cuff Bracelets
Bangle bracelets are often confused with cuff bracelets, which can look similar. Like bangles, cuff bracelets are rigid bracelets. However, cuff bracelets don’t go all the way around the wrist. They have a sizable opening that allows the wearer to slip them directly onto the wrist by angling them sideways. While they’re very similar to bangle bracelets, cuff bracelets have a distinct design that puts them into a category of their own.
The Beautiful Variety of Bangle Bracelets
All bangle bracelets are rigid and ring-shaped, but there’s still a huge amount of variety within this bracelet category. Bangles can be made of pure precious metal or adorned with any number of gemstones. They can have a simple circular shape or feature a more unique silhouette. See the variety in this category for yourself as we highlight some of our current favorite bangle designs.
With three red spinel gemstones and a lovely arching shape, this rose gold bangle is an elegant accessory.
A twisted design adds an element of romance to this chic diamond bracelet.
Featuring an overlapping design and over a dozen accent diamonds, this white gold bangle has a modern beauty.
With 5.42 ctw of diamonds, this white gold bangle bracelet is sure to turn heads at your next special occasion. Easy to pair with other jewelry, such as a pendant or necklace.
A slightly tapered shape adds a twist to the classic diamond bangle design.
Explore Bangle Bracelets
Discover more beautiful bangle bracelets by browsing our full bangle collection. Click the link below to explore bangle bracelets in our online store or visit our showroom in Westlake Village to see these beauties in person.
