Favorite Shapes
In either of these types, there are three popular shapes in which the bracelet may be fashioned. It may be tapered, thin on the underside of the wrist and wider on the back, which is of course the part most prominently displayed. Gold or diamond bracelets lend themselves to this form. More frequent is the straight bracelet, even all around the arm. This may be of gold, diamonds, pearls, or other stones, in a single band or in several rows that make a sort of cuff. The third popular variety is a bracelet with a comparatively simple band crowned with a major motif, centered, of course, on the upper side of the wrist.
The Special Clasp
This prominent center design may be utilized as the clasp of the bracelet. A separate design for the clasp, indeed, may add considerably to the beauty of the jewel. In fact, an attractive motif for concealing the actual mechanism of the clasp affords one of the few opportunities for making use of another jewel. A treasured brooch or ring, without requiring the resetting of stones or the breaking up of the jewel, may be incorporated into a bracelet as an ornamental clasp. The beautiful round or oval Victorian brooches, the still charming baroque flower pins and rings, lend themselves with exceptional readiness to this use. Such a clasp, as a centerpiece, may grace a many-stranded pearl bracelet, or one of gold chain or gold motifs.
Bracelet Width
The width of the bracelet should never exceed the width of the special clasp. Too wide a band will dwarf the clasp and destroy its decorative value. In this style of bracelet, the clasp is designed to be a dramatic eye-catcher.
For the Slim Arm
If the wrist is small, the bracelet should be worn low on the arm. A narrow gold or pearl bracelet will be most becoming. Too wide a band will tend to make the hand seem bony. A slim arm will seem rounder with a bracelet of slender chains set with small stones.
A pleasantly slender wrist calls for a striking bracelet that will hold the eye. It may be tight fitting with a motif on top. This will draw attention to the attractive feature, in the same way that a beautiful hand is enhanced by a dramatic ring.