What is the Difference Between Bangle and Bracelet?

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The main difference between a bangle and a bracelet lies in their structure, flexibility, and mode of closure. Here are the key differences:

  1. Rigidity:
  • Bangles are rigid and hold their shape, while bracelets are flexible and can be manipulated out of their circular shape.
  1. Material:
  • Bangles are usually made from solid, strong materials like brass, gold, silver, wood, or hard plastics due to their rigid nature.
  • Bracelets, on the other hand, can be made from a variety of materials, including beads, silver, or gold, as well as thin chains or links.
  1. Mode of Closure:
  • Bangles are complete circles and do not have any openings or clasps, needing to be slipped over the hand when put on.
  • Bracelets have clasps or elastic bands, allowing them to be either slipped over the hand or clasped onto the wrist.

Bangles and bracelets have distinct characteristics and can be suitable for different personalities. Bangles are often associated with more eccentric characters and can recall tribal traditions and distant ethnicities. In contrast, bracelets can cater to a wider range of tastes and styles, with some being casual and others elegant, depending on the chosen style and materials.

Comparative Table: Bangle vs Bracelet

The main differences between bangles and bracelets are their rigidity, material, and mode of closure. Here is a table summarizing these differences:

Characteristic Bangles Bracelets
Rigidity Rigid, hold their shape Flexible, can be manipulated out of circular shape
Material Made from solid, strong materials (e.g., brass, gold, silver, wood, or hard plastics) Made from beads, silver, or gold, or other flexible materials
Mode of Closure No clasp, complete circles Clasp or elastic band, can be slipped over the hand or clasped onto the wrist

Bangles originated in India and Southeast Asia and are derived from the word "bangri," which means "ring-shaped anklet". They are rigid, ring-shaped, and made of metal, and can be found in a variety of band widths and decorated with or without diamonds and other gemstones. Bracelets, on the other hand, are flexible and have clasps or elastic bands, allowing them to be either slipped over the hand or clasped onto the wrist. They can be worn individually or layered, enabling the wearer to combine different designs, gemstones, and precious metals to personalize their unique style.