Gold Bracelet Styles
Cuban link bracelets are the heavyweight of gold bracelet styles—interlocking links that sit flat on the wrist and catch light on every polished surface. They're the most popular style we sell in both men's and women's sizes. Figaro bracelets alternate between short and long links for a rhythmic pattern that's been a gold jewelry staple for generations. Rope bracelets twist two or more strands together, creating a dimensional, textured look that feels substantial and photographs beautifully.
Tennis bracelets set with diamonds or gemstones along the full length remain one of the most elegant gold bracelet styles—they drape smoothly and create a continuous line of sparkle. Pair your bracelet with a matching gold chain or gold earrings for a coordinated look. Bangle bracelets in solid gold are a classic: rigid, clean, and perfect for stacking. Curb link bracelets feature uniform, flat links that lay flush against the skin for a clean everyday look. Franco bracelets have a four-sided interlocking construction that's nearly impossible to kink—they're the most durable link style we carry. And herringbone bracelets create a flat, fluid ribbon effect that's sleek and eye-catching.
Choosing the Right Gold Bracelet
Gold purity is the first decision. 14K gold (58.3% pure) is the most popular choice for bracelets because it strikes the best balance between durability and rich color. It's hard enough to handle daily wear without bending or scratching easily. 10K gold (41.7% pure) is the most durable and most affordable option—great for active lifestyles. 18K gold (75% pure) has a deeper, richer color that's noticeably warmer, but it's softer and better suited for bracelets that won't take heavy abuse.
Solid vs. hollow matters more than most people realize. Solid gold bracelets have real weight, durability, and lasting value—they can be repaired if a link gets damaged and they hold their worth over time. Hollow bracelets are lighter and less expensive, but they dent more easily and are harder to repair. We always recommend solid construction for bracelets because your wrist takes more impact than your neck. Width is the other big variable: 3–5 mm is subtle and everyday-friendly, 6–8 mm makes a visible statement, and 9 mm and above is bold jewelry that commands attention.
Gold Bracelets by Color
Yellow gold is the classic—warm, rich, and timeless. It's the most traditional choice and it never needs plating because the color is inherent to the alloy. Yellow gold pairs naturally with warmer skin tones but honestly looks good on everyone. White gold is alloyed with palladium or nickel and plated with rhodium for that bright, silvery finish. It gives bracelets a modern, neutral look that pairs well with diamonds and cooler wardrobes. White gold needs rhodium replating periodically, but it's a quick, inexpensive service.
Rose gold gets its warm pink hue from a higher copper content in the alloy. It's become one of our fastest-growing categories because it flatters virtually every skin tone and adds a distinctive look that stands out from yellow and white. To learn more about gold purity and alloy types, visit our guide to gold. Browse our gold rings collection for matching pieces. Two-tone and tri-color bracelets combine multiple gold colors in alternating links or layered designs—they're versatile because they match any other gold jewelry you're already wearing. We see a lot of customers start with one color and eventually build a collection across all three.
Frequently Asked Questions
What karat gold is best for a bracelet?
For most people, 14K is the sweet spot. It's durable enough for daily wear, has a rich gold color, and holds its value well. We sell more 14K bracelets than any other karat. 10K is the right choice if you're hard on jewelry or want the most affordable solid gold option—it's the toughest gold alloy and it still looks great. 18K is beautiful if you want that deep, saturated gold color, but it's softer and scratches more easily. We generally recommend 18K for special-occasion bracelets rather than everyday pieces. The best karat is the one that matches how you actually live.
How do I find the right size gold bracelet?
Measure your wrist with a flexible tape measure, snug but not tight, and add half an inch to an inch depending on how loose you like your jewelry. Most women's bracelets are 7 to 7.5 inches; most men's are 8 to 8.5 inches. If you don't have a tape measure, wrap a strip of paper around your wrist, mark where it overlaps, and measure the paper flat. For bangles, close your fingers together and measure the widest part of your hand. We always say: measure twice, order once. A bracelet that fits right is one you'll actually wear every day.
Is solid gold better than hollow gold for bracelets?
For bracelets specifically, solid gold is the better investment every time. Your wrist bumps into things constantly—desks, steering wheels, door frames—and hollow links can dent or crush from impacts that a solid link shrugs off. Solid gold bracelets can also be repaired by a jeweler if a link gets damaged; hollow pieces often can't be fixed without it showing. The weight difference is real too—a solid bracelet feels substantial on the wrist in a way that hollow doesn't. Hollow gold has its place for necklaces and earrings where weight matters more, but for bracelets we always steer customers toward solid.
How do I clean a gold bracelet?
Warm water and a drop of mild dish soap is all you need. Soak the bracelet for 15 to 20 minutes to loosen oils and lotion, then gently scrub the links with a soft toothbrush. Pay attention to the inside of the links and around the clasp where grime builds up. Rinse under running water and dry with a soft cloth. For white gold, avoid abrasive cleaners that can strip the rhodium plating. We recommend cleaning your bracelet every couple of weeks if you wear it daily. The difference between a clean gold bracelet and a dirty one is dramatic—gold that looks dull is almost always just dirty, not damaged.
Can I wear my gold bracelet in the shower or pool?
Shower water won't hurt gold, but soap and shampoo leave residue in the links that dulls the finish over time. If you shower with it occasionally, no big deal—just clean it regularly. Pools and hot tubs are a different story. Chlorine can react with the alloys in gold, especially white gold and rose gold, and cause discoloration or weaken the metal over time. Saltwater is less harmful but can still leave deposits. Our standard advice: slip it off before you get in the water. It takes two seconds and saves you from cleaning issues down the road. Your bracelet will look better longer if you keep it dry.