The History and Long Tradition of Slave Bracelet

The slave bracelet is known for its unique design that remain almost the same across various styles, colors and materials. It will have an Indian wrist bracelet, a ring, a bezel plate and a chain connecting all of them. Usually, there is a center stone too. There is so much variation in style, colors and materials and you could always find something that perfectly matches your attire and style.

The History of Slave Bracelets

Slave bracelets have been part of certain cultures across the world. It has been mentioned in the ancient Indian scriptures and has remained part of the traditional wear for centuries. They can be seen in many ancient paintings representing the royal and ordinary life across the subcontinent. Most interestingly, there are no traditions that specifically focus on this bracelet, but they are commonly seen on the wrists of both newlyweds and the ordinary women.

Interestingly, the concept of slave bracelets have also been noticed in the American Indian community. They gained widespread popularity during the flapper culture of the 20’s. You will find many jewelry designers using multiple chains for connecting the bracelet, ring and all the other accessories. It is no longer any surprise to find a design where the bracelet is linked to more than one ring.

Their popularity again started growing during the 1970’s. This time the underlying factor for the revival was slightly different. The bracelet became more popular as the “Hand Flower.” This was a new trend in naming it so as to move away from the traditional “slave” term. It is worth noting that the term “slave” has actually no connotation with the practice of slavery in different parts of the world. The reason why the jewelry was called so because of the chain that connected the bracelet with the ring. This implied that the ring was a slave to the bracelet.

The European Tradition

While the tradition of slave bracelet jewelry continued over the centuries in India and the US, without even having a connection to each other, Europe had its own unique culture of this Hand Flower. But Europe’s role is slightly modern in the entire story. It has been found to be part of the renaissance period and often worn in events and enactments that look back at the medieval times. Even the Gothic culture has often been found to have used these bracelets.

But there are variations to this jewelry when you enter the European theater. They will have the typical weaves which are European, triangular patterns and many times you could find multiple chains that can be worn around the fingers.

Modern Bracelets

Thick metal cuffs with larger embellishments are typical to the modern slave bracelets. They will also feature a larger ring having matching stones and colors. Some of the popular ring designs can include dragons, snakes and spiders.

Slave bracelets are among the most “unusual” form of jewelry and still outstanding ones. They can be found in various forms, colors, metals, and gemstones. Choose the right ones that perfectly blend in with your style and taste.