Bangles, Bracelets and Kadas: The Differences

Wrist jewellery has several names, and shops use them in slightly different ways. Here is a clear way to tell them apart.

Bangles

A bangle is a rigid ring that slips over the hand and rests on the wrist.

• Shape: a closed circle, or an open one with a gap (a cuff-like opening).
• Fit: it must pass over the widest part of the hand, so the size is based on the hand, not just the wrist.
• Look: classic and traditional, often worn in sets or stacks.
• Care: a bangle can be damaged by knocks, and a closed bangle cannot be resized easily.

Bracelets

A bracelet is a chain or flexible band closed with a clasp.

• Shape: it wraps the wrist.
• Fit: adjustable with a clasp or extender, which makes sizing easier.
• Look: delicate or bold, depending on design.
• Types: chain, tennis (a line of stones), link and bead. See diamond bracelets: tennis, chain and bangle.

Kadas

A kada is a thick, solid bangle, often worn by men and women.

• Shape: a heavy, closed or open ring, sometimes with a motif.
• Fit: usually adjustable, or sized to slip over the hand.
• Look: bold and traditional.
• Weight: more substantial than a bangle.

Quick comparison

• Bangle: rigid ring, no clasp, slips over the hand.
• Bracelet: flexible, has a clasp, adjustable.
• Kada: thick, solid and heavy, a bolder statement.

Choosing by use

• Daily wear: a fine bracelet or a slim bangle.
• Occasions: stacks of bangles, or a diamond bracelet.
• A bold statement: a kada.
• A piece that stays on all the time: a slim bangle without stones that can catch.

Sizing

Bangles need a careful size, because they must pass over the hand. See how to measure bangle size. Bracelets are more forgiving.

Metals and finishes

Bangles and kadas are often in 22K for traditional looks, and 18K for diamond-set designs. See 18K vs 22K gold jewellery.

Care

Check for dents, loose stones and weak clasps. Clean them gently. See how to clean gold jewellery at home.

Common questions

Can I wear bangles and a bracelet together? Yes. Keep a gap between them, or choose a style that links them.

Are kadas only for men? No. They are worn by both.

Which is easiest to buy as a gift? A bracelet, since it adjusts.

How each one is made

A plain gold bangle can be hollow or solid. Hollow bangles are lighter and use less gold for the same visible size, which makes them more affordable but also more prone to denting. Solid bangles are heavier, more durable and more costly. A kada is nearly always solid, which gives it its weight. A bracelet has many small parts joined by links, so its strength depends on the quality of the joins and the clasp.

Hollow or solid?

Neither is better in every case. Hollow suits those who want a bold look at a lower weight, and solid suits those who want a piece to last and pass on. Ask which construction the piece uses, and how thick the wall is, since a thin hollow bangle can dent with a knock. The weight on the bill tells you how much gold you are buying in either case.

Wearing them together

Bangles and kadas are traditionally worn in stacks, with matching or contrasting pieces. A bracelet is often worn alone, or with a watch on the other wrist. If you wear a watch, choose a bracelet that sits comfortably beside it, and keep heavy bangles on the other arm so the two do not clash and scratch.

Looking after them

Wipe wrist jewellery after wear, because it is in contact with skin, soap and sweat. Avoid wearing bangles in the kitchen or while washing clothes, where they can be knocked against hard surfaces. A soft cloth pouch for each piece prevents scratches in storage.

Which should you buy first?

If you have none, a simple bracelet is the easiest to wear and to fit. If you want a traditional piece, a pair of plain bangles is classic. If you like a bold look, a kada is a strong choice. You can build on any of them later.

See our range

Browse our bangles and bracelets, or book an appointment.