A Guide to Bangles, Bracelets, and Clasp Types: What to Choose for Longevity and Value

When shopping for bracelets and bangles—whether for everyday wear or as an investment—it's essential to understand not just the style, but also the craftsmanship, materials, and clasp mechanisms. Some designs and builds are made to last generations. Others, unfortunately, are more likely to bend, break, or tarnish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through various types of bracelets, clasp styles, and what to look out for when investing in quality pieces.

Types of Bangles and Bracelets

1. Solid Bangles

These are rigid circular bangles made from solid metal, often gold, platinum, or sterling silver. They slip over the wrist.

• Investment Rating: ★★★★★
  Solid gold or platinum bangles hold high resale value and last for decades with minimal maintenance.

• Repair Notes: Rarely need repair unless the bangle is too thin and cracks/breaks with consistent wear. Sterling silver bangles require more upkeep with reshaping and cleaning/polishing to keep shiny.

2. Hinged Bangles

Openable bangles that fasten via a hinge and clasp. Elegant and practical for daily wear.

• Investment Rating: ★★★★☆
  Excellent for style and comfort; slightly more prone to wear at the hinge or clasp over time.

• Repair Notes: Hinges and clasps may loosen or wear out, but may either need repair or replacement depending on the metal type.

3. Cuff Bangles

These have an open back and slide onto the wrist sideways. Bold, modern, and typically easy to wear.

• Investment Rating: ★★★☆☆
  Can warp if bent or squeezed too frequently, especially in thinner metals.

• Repair Notes: Often need reshaping.

4. Chain Bracelets

Flexible bracelets made of interlocking links like curb, figaro, or rope styles.

• Investment Rating: ★★★★☆ (solid) / ★★☆☆☆ (hollow)
  Solid chains are durable and versatile. However, hollow link bracelets are prone to denting and stretching—leading to reduced value and frequent repairs.

• Repair Notes: Expect misshapen links, breakages, and worn clasps over time. Hollow links may be beyond repair once compromised.

5. Charm Bracelets

A chain bracelet adorned with various charms that hold sentimental value.

• Investment Rating: ★★★☆☆
  Great for storytelling but high-wear from swinging charms weakens the links and adds stress.

• Repair Notes: High maintenance—expect repairs to jump rings and clasp attachments.

6. Tennis Bracelets

Featuring a continuous line of gemstones, typically diamonds, set in gold or platinum.

• Investment Rating: ★★★★★
  A timeless classic—well-crafted tennis bracelets hold their value well.

• Repair Notes: Needs regular checks for stone settings and clasp tension.

❗ Avoid: Hollow Bangles, Hollow Link Bracelets, and Gold-Plated Pieces

These items are commonly marketed as affordable alternatives to solid gold jewellery, but they come with significant downsides:

Hollow Bangles

• What They Are: Tubular bangles with an empty interior to reduce weight and cost.

• Why to Avoid: They dent easily, crack under pressure, and are difficult or impossible to repair without collapsing the structure.

• Investment Rating: ★☆☆☆☆

• Repair Notes: Repairs are often not viable. If damaged, they usually must be replaced or the repair will be temporary and somewhat visible.

Hollow Link Bracelets

• What They Are: Chain bracelets where each link is made from thin, hollow metal.

• Why to Avoid: They stretch out, crush under pressure, and break with minimal force.

• Investment Rating: ★☆☆☆☆

• Repair Notes: Rebuilding hollow links is often not possible and if the link can be repaired it often done without warranty of workmanship being backed due to the instability of the metal. Replacing the bracelet becomes the only option where damage is evident.

Gold-Plated Bangles and Bracelets

• What They Are: Base metal pieces coated in a thin layer of gold.

• Why to Avoid: The plating wears off quickly, exposing a cheaper base metal underneath—leading to tarnishing and irritation.

• Investment Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆

• Repair Notes: Replating is not readily available in Australia and most jewellers opt to not offer a gold plating service due to high cost and short-lived results. These are fashion pieces, not investments.

Clasp Types and Their Safety

Lobster & Cartier (Aka Parrot) Clasps

• Security: High

• Durability: Excellent for everyday wear

• Common Repairs: Spring may weaken over time

Bolt Ring or Spring Ring Clasps

• Security: Moderate

• Durability: Fine for lightweight pieces

• Common Repairs: Fragile; often needs replacing

Box Clasp or Tongue and Groove Clasp (with figure 8 clasp)

• Security: Very high

• Durability: Ideal for investment pieces like tennis bracelets

• Common Repairs: May need occasional tightening

Toggle or T-Bar Clasp

• Security: Low to moderate

• Durability: Better suited for casual, fashion jewellery

• Common Repairs: May loosen with wear

Magnetic Clasp

• Security: Low

• Durability: Easy to use, but not secure for valuable pieces

• Common Repairs: Magnets can demagnetize or become misaligned

Top Choices for Investment Jewellery

✅ Solid Gold or Platinum Bangles
✅ Heavy, Solid Link Bracelets with Lobster or Cartier Clasps
✅ Tennis Bracelets with Secure Box Clasps and Safety Locks

These styles offer the best blend of durability, value retention, and longevity.

Styles to Avoid for Long-Term Value

🚫 Hollow Bangles and Hollow Link Bracelets
🚫 Gold-Plated or Vermeil Jewellery
🚫 Magnetic Clasps on High-Value Pieces

These may look appealing at first but often cost more in repairs than they're worth—and do not retain any resale value.

Final Thoughts

When investing in jewellery, go for quality over quantity. Solid metals, secure clasps, and timeless designs ensure your pieces last for generations and can be passed down with pride. While fashion pieces have their place, they should be clearly distinguished from true investment jewellery.

Need advice on restoring or evaluating a piece you already own? Come chat with our team at Nowlan Jewellery Co.—we’ll be happy to inspect it and offer expert recommendations.