Modern Design Draws on Traditional Roots for Turquoise Cuff Bracelets
Turquoise cuff bracelets conjure up varied images today: Playful and informal, traditional Native American, high style with unusual design, intricate and feminine. Whatever your style of choice, the look is here to stay. Whether you choose to wear a turquoise cuff bracelet with your weekend suedes and leathers, or dress for an evening out with a “slave band” just below your shoulder, you are sure to attract attention — in a good way.
Turquoise Cuff Bracelets Have Traditional Roots
The popularity of the turquoise cuff bracelet in the United States can be traced to its Native American roots among the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni and Santo Domingo tribes of the American Southwest. Traditional turquoise cuff bracelets are most often considered heavy, wide bands of coin silver with multiple large or small stones. Depending on the origin of the turquoise cuff bracelet, a traditional example might also employ other silver embellishments or additional stones such as coral or onyx.
It is assumed that the traditional turquoise cuff bracelets worn by elders and tribal leaders as well as the women denoted status and wealth, demanding respect from tribal members. They were a reflection of personal or family importance; later the same turquoise cuff bracelets, along with other jewelry styles, evolved into artistic expressions and assumed more decorative importance.
Turquoise Cuff Bracelets Embrace All Styles
Today, artists and designers from all traditions build upon the history of the turquoise cuff bracelet to enliven and enhance myriad design trends. Pearls might be added to a sleek silver and turquoise cuff bracelet. Or a band of twisted copper and silver wire might lend an ephemeral and sophisticated touch to a modern interpretation of an inches-wide turquoise cuff bracelet.
Infant-sized turquoise cuff bracelets are enjoying a revival as old-fashioned, yet very up-to-date, versions of the baby-shower gift; and even young boys have been seen sporting chunkier models of such jewelry for a very “with it” look. And, of course, no one can deny that silver and turquoise cuff bracelets are perfect complements to casual attire, whether its jeans and t-shirts, or shorts and swimsuits at the beach.
In today’s society, with relaxed rules for attire, it is easy to experiment with personal style, and to adopt an out-of-the-ordinary look as your own. A turquoise cuff bracelet could very well become your personal signature. You might even be credited with starting a trend among your friends.