In Caribbean culture, a baby bangle isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it’s a symbol of heritage, love, and connection. At Caribbijou, we honor this deep-rooted tradition with every baby bangle we create, infusing each piece with the artistry and history of our islands. Our collection offers an array of beautifully crafted bangles, from simple, elegant designs to more intricate pieces. Each one is handmade, unique, and created to be a treasured heirloom that brings a bit of Caribbean legacy to the youngest members of the family.
The Artistry and Meaning Behind Caribbijou Baby Bangles
One of our most beloved pieces is the Extra Light Cocoa Pod Bangle, a handcrafted design made in 925 sterling silver. This bangle holds meaning. Carrying the iconic diamante pattern along the side. At each end, a delicate representation of the cocoa pod symbolizes the rich blend of Indian, African, and Caribbean influences.
Pictured: Extra Light cocoa pod bangle
The extra light cocoa pod bangle has several features for a baby silver bangle:
- It is lightweight and won't be too burdensome for a baby or small child to wear. As with any thin material, if you bend it continuously it can break.
- It is the most affordable option. We all know how kids can break and lose things. This is a low investment bangle that allows you to share the tradition with your little one.
We of course have thicker options if you prefer. Check out our full baby bangle catalog here.
A Deep Dive into the History of Caribbean Baby Bangles
Caribbean baby bangles, often referred to as West Indian bangles, are part of a tradition that traces back through centuries and cultures. These bangles emerged from the fusion of West African and East Indian artistry, blending design elements that each culture brought to the islands. During the era of indentured labor, East Indian jewelry-making traditions met the African bangle styles, leading to the creation of what we now call West Indian bangles.
Historically, these bangles have been exchanged as symbols of love and status, often worn in pairs and passed down through generations. Baby bangles became especially significant, a way for families to gift their youngest members with a tangible link to their heritage. Many Caribbean families present these bangles to newborns and children, a reminder of the enduring strength and artistry that define Caribbean culture.
The Unisex Appeal of West Indian Bangles
Another beautiful aspect of West Indian bangles is their unisex design. Traditionally, both men and women in the Caribbean wear bangles—some prefer thin, delicate styles, while others favor thicker, more substantial designs. Baby bangles follow this versatile approach, and at Caribbijou, we price and sell them individually, allowing you to choose a single piece or a pair. This flexibility reflects the inclusive nature of Caribbean culture and allows each family to pass down the style in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
A Lasting Gift for Every Occasion
A baby bangle from Caribbijou is more than a gift; it’s a connection to Caribbean heritage that each child can carry with them through life. Whether gifted to celebrate a birth, christening, birthday, or simply as a gesture of love, each bangle is made to be cherished and to remind its wearer of the rich cultural heritage they belong to.
Thank You Khadijah for your cultural history and memories, l love island silver bangles and l have been collecting them for years! I wish they were paired though.
Best,
Gina