When you are looking to buy a gold bracelet, make sure that you are very clear in your mind regarding what you want. It will help you narrow down your options and make sure that the gold bracelet you buy will be perfect for you.
1. Solid or Vermeil?
A gold bracelet can be solid, where the entire piece is made from a single bar of gold in its purest form without any adornment, or vermeil, base metal with a layer of gold plating over it. Many bracelets are ten or 14k solid yellow, rose, or white gold for durability and to prevent allergens. In general, the thicker the gold plating on vermeil pieces, the higher their value and quality. However, some people also believe that vermeil jewelry contains harmful chemicals because it’s not 100% real gold. Although this is partly true, if you go with a well-known brand name as Pandora, they will use an alloy that does not contain nickel. You may also want to avoid earrings made of vermeil due to this same concern for nickel being used in the plating process.
2 Size
This is all about preference, but you should always be aware that gold bracelets tend to shrink over time if they always fit tightly on your wrist. If you plan on wearing it alone or stacking it with others, then the sizing won’t matter as much, and 10k gold is perfectly fine because of how malleable and soft it is. For men purchasing bracelets meant to be worn singly or stacked, 14k gold tends to be more durable though it can feel slightly heavier than lower options.
3. Cubic Zirconia or Diamonds
Gold bracelets are typically meant for casual wear, so most adornments are cubic zirconia. However, plan on wearing your bracelet for formal occasions where diamonds are the preferred stones. It may be worthwhile to look for one plated with white gold instead of yellow to avoid discoloration over time. Regardless of the type of stone used, always ask if they are genuine or lab-created gems. It’s also wise to know what type of warranty is included, whether it be against defects in workmanship and/or materials.
4 Pricing
Most references suggest spending no more than 20% of your monthly income on a piece of gold jewelry. Once this number is exceeded, it’s better to invest in a piece that will appreciate and hold its value (gold bars or coins).
5. What Type of Clasp?
Slide-in: It is easier to use than other options, but it can accidentally slide off your wrist if the bracelet is bumped during wear. Spring Ring Clasp: This type has an S hook which makes putting on and removing the piece easier, but it tends to flop around more than one with a lobster claw clasp. Lobster Claw Clasp: Most secure option for those who plan on wearing their bracelets regularly throughout the day because they lock completely onto your wrist and don’t loosen up as much as other styles.
