Identification, Please

Sep 22

Bracelets that (usually) tell the world who you are

The ID bracelet is making a name for itself again, as designers roll out fresh versions of a classic that’s been dangling from wrists since World War II. The look began with American servicemen, who donned bent-metal or chain bracelets stamped with their name, rank, and serial number. Many continued wearing these honorable bangles after they returned home, often giving them to a love interest as an invitation to “go steady.” From the 1950s onward, the style became popularized when civilians had bracelets engraved with the names of husbands, boyfriends, or family members serving in the Korean War or Vietnam.

The utilitarian design was eventually elevated to fashion staple, worn as a personal statement or an affectionate token from an SO. Today’s most desirable renditions are upgraded with modern finishes and materials, or blinged out in diamonds and gemstones. While most are engravable, others simply flaunt the traditional silhouette but keep ’em guessing about your identity.

**Say My Name**

Monica Vinader’s handmade ID/friendship-bracelet hybrid takes us back to summer camp when we crafted DIY presents for our besties. The best part? This piece is made from recycled gold or silver and is responsibly manufactured and certified by the Responsible Jewelry Council.
Monica Vinader “Linear Friendship Bracelet” in 18k rose gold vermeil and rose gold metallic finish, $175 at Monica Vinader

**Flex Spending**

Who needs engraving when this delicate style offers a perfect fit and continuous sparkle, thanks to malleable, semi-hollow wire and pavé-set diamonds. In 14K yellow gold, this feminine interpretation of the traditional ID bracelet can be worn everywhere from the tennis court to a rock concert.
I. Reiss “Super Flex” diamond ID bracelet, $2,925 at Barmakian Jewelers

**Name Dropper**

So what if you can’t engrave this attention-grabbing number, which already speaks volumes about your fashion-forward persona. Created by the LA-based mother/daughter duo Ladan and Tania Shayan, this ID-inspired bangle reflects the brand’s cool SoCal vibe with its 18K black-gold finish and white untreated diamonds.
Shay “ID Essential Link” diamond pavé bracelet in black gold, $11,800 at Shay Jewelry

**In the Name of Love**

Anything encased in the iconic Tiffany Blue box elicits excitement, and this sterling silver classic is no exception. Effortlessly chic and versatile, it can be engraved, embossed, or etched with a message to make it a one-of-a-kind heirloom. Tiffany & Co. recommends wearing the bracelet on your dominant hand, opposite the watch hand, for balance and harmony.
Tiffany & Co. sterling silver ID bracelet in size medium, $625 at Tiffany & Co.

**A Rose By Any Other Name**

The classic ID gets a glamorous makeover. This bracelet boasts chunky rose gold links and a diamond pavé tag for maximum twinkle. Available at Denver-based Oster Jewels, the bracelet is crafted in the atelier of the 75-year-old, Manhattan-based Hammerman, one of the few remaining jewelry manufacturers in America.
Hammerman “Diamond Link” tag bracelet, price upon request at Oster Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**The Royal Treatment**

Lehua Jewelers of Hawaii has been churning out one-of-a-kind, island-inspired pieces for three decades. Made in the tradition of the original Victorian “remembrance” bracelets, which were given as gifts from England’s royal family to Hawaii’s, Lehua’s bangles are hand-engraved locally.
14K ID bracelet with glass enameled letters, $2,100 at Lehua Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**Identify Yourself**

This contemporary spin on the classic ID, from Kwait’s “Diamond Tags” collection, features gleaming bars of 18K gold edged with brilliant diamond accents. Versatile and easy to layer, it’s available for custom monogramming. Choose anything from a first name to a meaningful word or phrase—the only limit is your imagination.
Kwait “Diamond Tags ID Bracelet” in 18k yellow gold, $5,350 at Kwait

**Off the Cuff**

Much like the quirky yet enchanting city it’s named after, this sterling-silver bracelet is a little traditional, a little unexpected, and a lot charming. Instead of a customary ID plate, a cubic zirconia link with rhodium finish sits at the center of the Savannah. Find it at 13 Secrets Jewelry Gallery, where owner Chad Crawford is inspired by the city’s art culture and his extensive world travels.
Single Link Savannah Bracelet, $169.99 at 13 Secrets Jewelry Gallery

Editor: Samantha Durbin

Wordsmith/Curator: Maryann LoRusso

Every item featured is personally selected by our writers and editors (read: we're totally into it). Please know that when you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission (read: we get to keep doing what we love).