Bracelets & Bangles
Bracelets are the piece people get wrong on sizing more than any other — too tight and it won't go on, too loose and it spins or slips off. Get the fit right and the rest is style. Here's how we guide clients at our Stirling showroom.
Bracelet vs bangle: the key difference
A bracelet is flexible — a chain or linked design that drapes around the wrist and fastens with a clasp. A bangle is rigid — a solid or hinged ring of metal that either slips over the hand or opens on a hinge. Bracelets suit those who want adjustability and a closer fit; bangles suit those who like the look of solid metal and don't mind a looser, sliding fit.
Style: tennis, chain, charm or cuff
A tennis bracelet is a continuous line of claw- or channel-set diamonds — the classic dressy choice. Chain bracelets (belcher, curb, figaro) are the versatile everyday option. Charm bracelets build over time and make wonderful milestone gifts. Cuffs and torque bangles are the bold, contemporary statement. Match the weight to how it'll be worn — a fine chain for daily wear, something heavier for occasions.
Sizing & fit
Measure around the wrist bone snugly with a tape, then add 1.5-2cm for a comfortable bracelet fit (more for a looser drape). The UK average woman's wrist takes a 7-7.5 inch (18-19cm) bracelet; men's 8-8.5 inches (20-21.5cm). Bangles are sized by the internal diameter — it must clear the widest part of the hand (across the knuckles of the folded hand), which is why bangles always sit looser than bracelets. We measure both in store for free.
Metal & durability
9ct gold is harder and more scratch-resistant than 18ct, which makes it a sensible choice for a bracelet that takes daily knocks against desks and door handles. 18ct gold and platinum are softer and richer in colour but show wear sooner on a piece this exposed. Silver is the affordable everyday option but tarnishes and dents more easily. For a diamond tennis bracelet we recommend 18ct gold or platinum for secure settings.
Clasps & safety chains
The clasp is the weak point of any bracelet. Lobster (trigger) clasps are the most secure and easiest to fasten one-handed. Box clasps with a figure-of-eight safety catch are best for valuable pieces like tennis bracelets — if the main clasp fails, the safety catch still holds. We fit safety chains to fragile or high-value bracelets as standard.
Materials & care
Take bracelets off for the gym, gardening and washing up — the wrist takes more knocks than any other spot. Clean at home with warm soapy water and a soft brush, paying attention to the clasp where skin cream collects. Bring tennis bracelets in for a claw check every twelve months; a single worn claw on a line setting risks the whole row.
| Style | Fit | Best for | Typical entry price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennis | Clasp, close | Occasions, gifts | £1,800 (1ct) |
| Chain | Clasp, adjustable | Everyday wear | £150 (9ct) |
| Charm | Clasp, builds over time | Milestone gifts | £120 + charms |
| Bangle | Rigid, sliding | Stacking, solid look | £250 (9ct) |
Frequently asked
What size bracelet should I buy?+
Measure snugly around the wrist bone and add 1.5-2cm for comfort. The UK average is 7-7.5 inches (18-19cm) for women and 8-8.5 inches (20-21.5cm) for men. We measure in store for free, and can adjust the length of most bracelets at our workshop — we'll confirm the price before any work begins.
What is the difference between a bracelet and a bangle?+
A bracelet is flexible and fastens with a clasp for a closer, adjustable fit. A bangle is a rigid ring of metal that either slips over the hand or opens on a hinge, and always sits looser because it has to clear the knuckles.
How much does a diamond tennis bracelet cost?+
A tennis bracelet with around 1.00ct total weight of diamonds in 18ct white gold starts from approximately £1,800. A 3.00ct total weight version starts around £4,500. Total carat weight, stone quality and metal all drive the price.
Will a bangle fit over my hand?+
Bangles are sized by internal diameter and must clear the widest part of the folded hand, across the knuckles. We measure this in store. Hinged bangles open to fit a slimmer internal size while still passing over the hand — useful if your hand is wider than your wrist.
Can a bracelet be shortened or lengthened?+
Chain and linked bracelets can usually be shortened by removing links, or lengthened by adding them, in our workshop. Tennis bracelets are adjusted by adding or removing set links and are re-balanced so the line stays even. Bring it in for a free assessment and we'll agree the price before any work begins.