Alex and Ani Let's just clear the air right from the onset, Alex and Ani is costume jewelry. Now this is not to say it's not good, it's just calling a goose, well, a goose! Alex and Ani jewelry started out as costume jewelry and remains as costume jewelry. Named after her two daughters, Alex and Ani, Carolyn Rafaelian (founder and CEO) was not an overnight success. It started out with Carolyn making jewelry that she wanted to wear. After many years of hard work effort in the basement floor of her Father's factory in Rhode Island, Alex and Ani has grown to be the empire it is today. With a product line of mainly necklaces, cuffs, and rings, the expandable bangle is one of the most popular and best sellers. So what makes these bangles so great that they can command $30-$50 apiece? These charm bangles are made of recycled scrap metal, then coated with either precious metals or brass. Now if coated with gold or silver, it's a no brainer as to why the higher price tag, but brass? Well, metals in small quantities have been proven to benefit the human body. For example, copper in amounts the body can regulate help with digestion, and brass have been reported to increase strength and immunity while pacifying aggression. But word of caution, too much of any metal in the body will lead to poisoning (FYI: Pure brass is non-toxic and has no links to health complications.) But even then, does any of this justify the price of recycled scrap metal? Well the secret is that Carolyn Rafaelian doesn't really sell jewelry, she sells positive energy, the bracelet, bangle, necklace or earrings are just the vehicle. That's right, Carolyn believes that each piece is imbued with energy that can have a positive effect on its wearer. And why not? The pieces are fashionable, chic, and come in a variety of lines to support any occasion. From celestial horoscopes, to best friend charms, to office casual relationships, there something for every occasion. Lastly, while many pieces are still made in America, some of it has gone overseas. However, Alex and Ani is vertically integrated which means they control most of their supply chain. This allows the company to better ensure quality control and consistency; but, it does come at a higher costs of manufacturing (when made in the USA). Right now, you're probably thinking "When are they going to get to talking about this charms bangle?!" Well, the thing is, the bangle is the bangle. The pictures clearly show you what you're getting. The only notable really is that unlike other charm bracelets, these bangles have an expandable closure so you can easily slip it on and secure it. These bangles are NOT EXPANDABLE in the sense that you can purchase additional charms and link them to the bangle. This is not to say it's impossible to add charms, you will just need to use a small lobster clasp or trigger clip hook. These bangles are definitely stackable, and the charms on them are specific to the intended occasion. This Alex and Ani Key to My Heart Bracelet is finished in Rafaelian Gold. It's not real gold, just a finish. The Rafaelian Gold refers to the hue (color) of the gold. It's a deeper richer gold giving the impression that it is of a higher Karat mix. Personally, I find the price point of these to be on the high side. But that's where the master marketing comes in play. They're priced perfectly for gift giving. Not too low that it exudes cheap, yet not expensive enough the dent the bank. The recycled materials make this a eco-conscious gift, and the finishes give it the appearance of first rate manufacturing. Whether they're manufactured in the USA or overseas, the quality will be the same, it'll just be a matter of whose economy you'll be supporting. Bottom line, read the details to know what the product is made of. They'll all have a metal base, but look for the finish (Brass, Copper, Silver, Gold). If gold or silver, be sure to see if it's really a precious metal look for the amount of gold (e.g. 14K) or if it's just a gold or silver colored finish. Lastly, if manufacturing origin is a preference, you can check for that too. Alex and Ani jewelry makes for a great gift, but if buying for personal use, I'd wait for them to go on sale. I've seen them throughout the year in the $20 price range, and that's when I pick them up for my little girls who absolutely love them.
