Introduction
Death is one of the most inevitable truths of all time. No matter what we do, we cannot hold onto our loved ones forever. There will be a day when you hug them for the last time, hear their giggle for the last time, and be with them.
The saddest part about the whole thing is that you would not know. However, that does not mean that we cannot save a small piece of your loved ones after they move on to greener pastures.
Memorial bracelets are not meant for fashion. They are meant for comfort and quiet longing for the loved one who has passed away. These bracelets act as a physical symbol of the bond and the person you have lost.
Many cultures have a similar concept, where people even go on to preserve the remains of their loved ones who have died. This is primarily because memorial keepsakes offer several benefits, including psychological comfort.
The History and Significance of Memorial Bracelets
Memorial bracelets are not new. They have been around since time immemorial. The tradition of wearing memorial remembrance on your person has been followed in several different cultures. While some cultures would encourage wearing body parts as a sign of respect, others would use them in a symbolic sense.
Over the years, this memorial jewelry has undergone various updates and iterations. Nowadays, precious metals are used to craft these remembrance jewelry pieces. The modern take on this jewelry is much more subtle and ornate. As a result, you will notice remembrance jewelry with novelty stones.
Memorial bracelets are not your run-of-the-mill jewelry. These come with deep philosophical and cultural significance. However, the Vietnam War saw the meteoric rise of memorial jewelry. During the 70’s, soldiers would engrave initials on mugs, dog tags, or their helmets. If the soldier ends up KIA or MIA, then these memorabilia will be sent back to their families.
Therefore, the significance of such jewelry is deeply rooted in the social fabric. For more details on the historical aspects of these pieces, refer to this article. You will understand how and why these bracelets have become so significant.
As time passed, such bespoke trinkets became more about reflecting the personal taste of the deceased. It did not rely on a singular memory, but rather on the sense of the person’s presence, embodied in the form of jewelry. As a result, transcending boundaries of all kinds.
Differentiating Types: Memorial Bracelet vs. Remembrance Bracelet vs. In Memory Bracelets
Memorial trinkets have been around longer than most of us can remember. However, the definition or the aura of them evolved over time. If you are in the market for one or considering getting one for yourself, you must first understand the different forms available.
- Memorial Bracelets: These are usually worn in memory of a specific loved one. These bracelets serve as a physical reminder of the person who has passed away. These pieces of jewelry offer extensive personalization options according to what resonates with your relationship.
- Remembrance Bracelets: These pieces are designed to capture the essence of the person who has passed away. Such bracelets often come with small symbols that hold meaning for the deceased.
- In-Memory Bracelets: These pieces often contain the name, a small quote, and dates, such as the date of birth (DOB) and the date of death (DOD). These are perfect for wearing on anniversaries or other special occasions.
While deciding the right piece for yourself, please consider the pointers we just mentioned. However, you are wearing the bracelet in memory of a loved one. So, the occasion does not really matter much.
Taking Care Of Your Remembrance Jewelry
Like everything, your remembrance jewelry needs some love and care. Otherwise, they might lose their lustre and become just another trinket. To stop that from happening, consider following certain steps that can help you in that endeavor:
- Keep it in a ziplock bag to stop the jewelry from being exposed to the elements like moisture and oxygen. Ziplock bags are not mandatory, but they are the most effective at keeping moisture out. You can even drop a silica gel packet into the bag to keep it moisture-free.
- In case the jewelry is silver, consider storing it with chalk shavings. Chalk is a great absorber of moisture. This helps in maintaining the shine of the jewelry. As we said, silica gel packs are also great.
- The jewelry must not come in contact with the skincare. Therefore, do not wear your jewelry to the bath or let it come in contact with your cream or any other skincare products. This will help you to maintain the jewelry effectively.
- Jewelry should also avoid direct sunlight. Therefore, keep your trinkets at home if you plan to go to the beach. Excessive exposure to the sun can affect the lustre of gemstones.
- Remove your jewelry periodically to keep it looking new. Sweat can also affect the aesthetic value of your jewelry, making it appear duller.
- Do not store in areas with excessive heat or cold. The temperature should be optimal and must not be in extremes. Otherwise, you risk damaging the jewelry.
Conclusion: Embracing Memory with Memorial Bracelets
From dust we came, and to dust we shall return. This intrinsic and vicious circle of life is the profound truth we cannot escape. No matter what we do, we cannot escape this. But what happens to our loved ones when we pass on? What happens is that we are but a memory.
As a result, the only way our loved ones can feel our presence is through a piece of bespoke jewelry that has our essence. Something they can hold and feel a connection to.
As a result, a memorial bracelet is not just a bracelet. It is a deeply personal and silent symbol of love and the bond between loved ones beyond the plane that divides life and death.
