When it comes to jewelry design, there are staples and there are fashion-forward ideas—and the twain don’t usually meet. Charms, however, shattered that perception last year and continue to bridge the gap between traditional and “hot.” Thanks to the fashion icons of Sex and the City and the fashion magazines that set trends, charm bracelets have become not only a gift for mom or daughter but also a full-fledged self-purchase item that exudes both hip style and sentimental, well, charm!

Mariah Carey didn’t hurt the trend when she named her last CD Charmbracelet, thereby expanding the audience from sophisticated 30- and 40-something women to include their Generation Y daughters and little sisters. While charm manufacturers and retailers alike rejoice as this fashion trend continues through 2003, the best news is this: When the “trend” fades, the staple remains a strong seller.