Charm bracelets are back in fashion and they are the perfect gift for any occasion as they are intended to keep your greatest memories close to you. But thanks to the popularity of charms bracelets there are so many on the market so how are you supposed to know which one to choose?

Two of the most popular brands are Pandora and Chamilia; there are so many similarities between the two that it’s not so easy to spot their differences, however, it is their differences which make them unique and you should definitely know about them if you’re considering purchasing one.

Chamilia used to be much cheaper than Pandora however, now this isn’t necessarily the case and there may only be £5-£10 difference in the price of the bracelet. The Chamilia beads are a little different to Pandora too and if you were going to make the argument you would say that they are more suitable to the younger generations because of their cute and glitzy bead ranges like the Disney characters. Each of the charms and the bracelets are handcrafted and just like the Pandora range they are available in a choice of materials in a variety of styles.

Pandora was the first to be introduced to the market and is seen as the more sophisticated and classy of the two brands. Just like Chamilia bracelets the Pandora bracelets are available in sterling silver, gold or even leather – in a variety of colours. With each bracelet you have a choice of clasp to including a traditional lobster clasp – which can be seen on most jewellery items – or the special Pandora snap clasp which looks just like a bead and has ‘Pandora’ written around it.

It’s the thought that counts when it comes to charm bracelets and charms because a lot of thought has to go in to choosing the right charm for that special person. The age and personality of the person that you’re buying for should educate your choice as Pandora bracelets are traditional and make underlying statements, whereas Chamilia are new and trendy and the charms are a little more obvious and blingy.

Chamilia Collection includes one-of-a-kind jewellery with dazzling beads of sterling silver, Swarovski® crystal, coloured stones and Italian Murano glass

The main similarities and differences that you need to bear in mind about the two are the fact that they’re both charm bracelets, both of them uses silver, gold, enamel or Murano glass for their beads; this ultimately makes the bracelets and beads interchangeable which is great if you prefer the Pandora bracelets but the Chamilia beads, or vice versa.

The Pandora company is much older than Chamilia both in the founding years and their time on the market. Chamilia is intended mainly for teenagers and young adults which is why they have charm ranges like the Disney one, as they are a cheaper way to give a young girl the glamour and choice of a charm bracelet.
The great thing about both is that they make brilliant gifts for any occasion, for anyone.

Picture credit: Pandora & Chamilia