Italian Charms—The Basics

There is a new trend that is hitting America by storm! If you have not heard of Italian charms, you must be living in a secluded mountaintop with no access to the modern fashion world, because Italian charms are the hottest thing since the Beanie Baby phenomenon! They may be even hotter because they are much more functional!
What Are Italian Charms?
Italian charms are inventive bracelets from Italy. The Italian charms themselves are rectangular interlocking links, around 9mm in size, with different designs on them. By snapping these colorful and unique charms of your choice onto the bracelet, you create your own stylized jewelry that reflects your own personality and interests. And the great thing about Italian charms is that you can take off the old charms, and replace them with new ones any time you like. You can buy literally hundreds of Italian charms and change your Italian charm bracelet day after day.

The Bracelet
Your first step in collecting Italian charms is the bracelet. You must purchase a special Italian charm bracelet so that the charms can snap into place. You can order a charm bracelet in many colors—silver, gold, blue, you name it. Some of the bracelets you can purchase online are authentic precious metals, but others are not. Just read the description of the bracelet to find out its properties.

Bracelets are the most popular type of jewelry to wear with Italian charms, but Italian charm necklaces, key chains, and watches are available, too. Go online to Pugster at www.pugster.com to see some of your options.

Different Kinds of Italian Charms
Traditionally, Italian charms are made from stainless steel and 18-carat gold and had small designs and letters on them. Modern Italian charm can have practically anything on them, from pictures to personal photographs.

Photo Charms—Photo charms are fantastic for those who want to add even more personality to their jewelry. The Italian charm will feature photographs of lovely items, such as flowers, animals, or any other interest you may have. Your choices are endless. Popular Italian photo charms are photos of exotic locations, like tropical islands or faraway countries.

Laser-engraved—Do you have a short quote you live by, such as “It’s All About Me” or “Live, Love, Laugh?” Are you a big sister? Do you absolutely love country music? Let everyone know exactly who you are and what is important to you with laser-engraved Italian charms. These kinds of charms have symbols, expressions, or even names enhanced on the charm.

Hand-painted—Authentic hand-painted Italian charms are beautiful and original. They may cost a little more than other charms because they have been painted individually by an artist’s hand. Show off your individuality with these kind of Italian charms.

Exclusives—Some Italian charm web sites offer special Italian charms you can only purchase through them. These exclusives may be hard to find and very collectible.

Licensed Brands—Are you a Curious George fanatic? Do you own practically every Tasmanian Devil shirt there is? Well, now you can coordinate your cartoon apparel with officially licensed brand Italian charms. Disney even has its own line of Italian charms.

Custom Charms—Any phrase or even photograph can be laser-etched onto a charm. If you have a special photo that you want to make into jewelry, visit www.parodidesign.com, to learn more about custom charms.

Keep in mind that some Italian charms are of better quality than others, Usually the price you pay reflects the quality. Some Italian charms are found in sterling silver, while others are enamel. Which kind of Italian charms you wish to purchase is completely up to you.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Copyright © 2006