In general most people think of two different types of metals that are commonly associated with beautiful charm bracelets. These two metals are yellow gold and sterling silver, however there are other charm bracelet options. Deciding which metal is the best for you is somewhat based on personal preference, but budget, quality and durability will also play a factor in your decision.
While historically yellow gold charm bracelets have been the tradition, this is certainly not the case anymore. Generally yellow gold charm bracelets can be traced back to the ancient Pharaohs of Egypt, making them the true original charm bracelets. Gold charm bracelets can be several different types from 10k all the way up to 18k. The higher karat number the more actual gold is in the metal, resulting in a richer color but also a slightly softer surface which may lead to more scratching and damage with daily wear.
As can be imagined, the more gold content in the bracelet the higher priced the charm bracelets will be. Often people select the more expensive bracelets for evening or special occasion wear but also have a lower cost 10k or 14k bracelet for everyday wear.
There is also the option to go with white gold for charm bracelets. These are beautiful and elegant in design, although finding charms in white gold is not as easy as finding the same selection in either sterling silver or yellow gold. White gold is very durable, easy to keep looking wonderful but is also typically more expensive than other types of gold.
Two tone charm bracelets that combine white gold and yellow gold or yellow gold and sterling silver are very much in demand. These bracelets are typically double or triple strand or link, providing a bracelet that is not flat but more rounded in shape. Links on these types of bracelets can also vary between yellow and white gold for a striking pattern.
For the most expensive yet also the most durable types of charm bracelets look towards those made of platinum. Made of a naturally strong and stain resistant metal, platinum charm bracelets match well with white gold and sterling silver charms.
Sterling silver is an option for those that want a very durable yet lower cost type of metal for charm bracelets. Sterling silver is very tarnish resistant but it can and will tarnish under specific conditions. Generally most slight amounts of tarnish can be easily removed by buffing with a soft, lint free cotton cloth or a jewelers silver polishing cloth.
Getting the highest quality of metal in whatever style of charm bracelets you are considering is an important factor. Although a very expensive type of platinum bracelet or 18k gold bracelet may be out of your price range, you can still look for the same style of charm bracelets in silver or 10k gold. Quality is important in charm bracelets as you want a piece of jewelry that will last you a lifetime and continue to look beautiful.
