In and out of style through the decades, charm bracelets are as popular today as in the 1950s, with jewelers from Cartier to Bulgari creating their own logo-laden versions. Today, many jewelry brands sell bracelets complete with charms but the classic bracelet is created over time. Over the years, the wearer creates a personal piece of jewelry by adding charms that reflect her life. Virtually any design is possible and charms can be engraved for more personalization.

The quality of a charm bracelet begins with the quality of the link bracelet. It can be narrow or wide but the links must be heavy and sturdy enough to support the added weight and volume of the charms. It also must have a very sturdy clasp, since the weight of the charms adds to the stress on it. Make sure charms are attached securely: a standard jump ring is not really enough.

Bracelet clasps are important, since this piece of jewelry receives a lot of wear and can catch on protrusions. Designers have devised a variety of ways to close bracelets securely around your wrist. There may be a lobster claw, toggle, spring ring, hinge and sliding tongue and groove, or a hidden catch integrated into the bracelet’s design.

Whatever method the designer has chosen, the clasp should be unobtrusive and in harmony with the bracelet. A safety clasp in addition to the primary clasp adds extra security. Tug on the clasp to make sure it doesn’t come open; often tension can be adjusted or readjusted to keep it clicking closed securely.

But even the best bracelet won’t be comfortable and a pleasure to ear if it doesn’t fit properly. A well fitting bracelet should be loose enough to be comfortable and not put pressure on your wrist yet snug enough so it does not slide too far down onto your hand. With the bracelet on the wrist where you plan to wear it, the opening between the bracelet and the wrist should be about one finger wide. If the bracelet is too long, it will catch on things, stretching and putting undue stress and pressure on each of the hinge joints. If a bracelet is too long, remove links to make it fit: leftover links can be made into earrings.