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The History of Charms

Wearing charms as jewellery to represent “a life story” dates back to the Egyptian Pharaohs when the first recognisable charm bracelets and necklaces appeared.

Charms have been worn throughout history to represent status, memberships, aspirations or occupations. During Queen Victoria’s time charms moved from being very practical “ID tags” or talismans to becoming decorative fashion jewellery that also told stories about the wearer and their family.

The end of WWII and the dramatic increase in travel saw charms as mementos of places visited and special occasions. During the 1950’s a charm bracelet became a customary way for girls to record major rites of passage such as 16th birthdays, graduations, weddings and births.

Today, glamour charm bracelets are high on the fashion list with “theme” bracelets being created by designers such as Louis Vuitton.

Individual charm bracelets in sterling silver or gold are still one of the most personalised ways to represent a unique life story that can be passed on from generation to generation.

About the Author

Nikki Johnston is Chief Giddy Aunt of Australian based business ohmygiddyaunt – specialising in custom made Keepsake Jewellery, Mother’s Rings and Family Heirlooms to tell the stories of mothers and their babies. Nikki is the designer of Keepsake Heart charms and BeBe Block charms and also has over 600 charms online at www.ohmygiddyaunt.com.au