Wristbands-friendship bracelets-icon bracelets

The friendship bracelet or wristband is an item of jewellery given as a symbol of friendship from one person to another. These can be made from a wide variety of materials from woven thread, leather, or embroidery silks; these can then be left plain with just the simple weaving in various styles and patterns or decorated with beads for a more elaborate appearance. The amount of thread used in wristbands varies depending on the pattern. Quite often these friendship bracelets were handmade but are now available to buy at very reasonable prices and in an enormous selection of colours and styles.

The friendship bracelet or wristband is not a new idea, although most people believe they first became popular in the United States during the 1970s, the bracelet has been around for thousands of years. Egyptian bracelets have been found and dated from 5000 BC.  These were made out of materials like stones, bones, and woods to serve religious and spiritual interests.  Originally, it is believed that the colourful friendship bracelets or wristbands were invented by Indians in Central and South America. According to tradition, you were meant to tie a bracelet onto the wrist of a friend and make a wish. The bracelet was meant to be worn until it was totally worn-out and fell off by itself, at which moment the wish should have come true. Materials and designs have altered throughout the centuries, however bracelets, wristbands and friendship bracelets have been popular as gifts and given as a sign of love and or friendship.

Friendship bracelets are commonly worn by both males and females. They are very fashionable throughout the world. Leather plaited bracelets or straps are usually the preferred choice for men, whereas the more brightly coloured silk designs adorned with beads seem to appeal to the females. They are ideal as a fashion accessory at the beach because they are made of materials that will not be easily destroyed by swimming. Western Counties Wholesale hold a huge range of all styles in many display units.

Whatever your choice, plain plaited, knotted, neon, beads and shells, there is a friendship bracelet or wristband design for you.