The 5 Best Chainmail Bracelets on Etsy
Looking for a new accessory for your wardrobe? Maybe you want a bracelet with an edgier or more medieval aesthetic, or maybe you need one to go with your Renaissance festival, Dungeons and Dragons, or LARPing outfit. If this is the case, then a chainmail bracelet would be an excellent option, and the best place to purchase a high-quality piece of craftsmanship such as this is on Etsy!
The top five best chainmail bracelets we wholly recommend you purchase from through Etsy artists and shopkeepers include:
- Stainless Steel Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelet from 2ifByMaille
- Hana Gusari Japanese Chainmail Bracelet from DaveCainChainmail
- Copper European 4-in-1 Chainmail Bracelet from SzkatulkaAmiJewelry
- Gothic Chunky Chainmail 3 Link Hand Made Bracelet from BlackHeartsJewellery
In this article, we will discuss these stunning chainmail recommendations in more detail. As you read, you’ll also learn the answer to a few commonly asked questions relating to chainmail bracelets, such as what they are, what patterns exist, and how you can start creating your own chainmail jewelry.
What Is A Chainmail Bracelet?
When one hears the word “chainmail,” images of medieval knights and warfare probably come to mind since this type of metalwork was largely used for armor and reportedly dates back to 359 BC. So, what does a small piece of jewelry like a bracelet entail when the description claims it was made using the techniques of chainmail?
A chainmail bracelet is a piece of jewelry that consists of interlocking metal rings. In medieval times, wrought-iron was the metal of choice for chainmail, but nowadays, most bracelets are made of stainless steel or titanium. These metal rings can be linked together to create a simple chain or extravagant patterns depending on the preferred pattern type, technique, and aesthetic.
While chainmail was typically used to create a sort of shirt that medieval European knights would wear as a protective layer under their armor, modern artists and metal workers have started to adapt its techniques for products more commonly used today, such as jewelry, home décor, and props for cosplays and similar fantasy-related hobbies.
Are All Chainmail Bracelet Patterns The Same?
We alluded to the answer to this question in our previous section, but the answer is no; not in the slightest. It might seem like all examples of chainmail are the same if you were to walk through a museum, but one look at the numerous bracelets made from this technique would quickly prove otherwise.
There are countless different chainmail patterns or weaves as they’re more commonly referred to, including:
- Box
- Byzantine
- Celtic Wings
- Dragonscale
- European 4-in-1 or European 6-in-1
- Full Persian 6-in-
- Half Persian 3-in-1 or Half Persian 4-in-1
- Helm
- Inverted Round
- Japanese 4-in-1 or Japanese 6-in-1
- Jens Pind Linkage
- Mobius
- Roundmaille
- Spiral
- Spiral rope
- Turkish round
Each weave type exudes a unique style and has its own history of origin. The box, Byzantine, and European 4-in-1 are favorites used for bracelets, but it isn’t uncommon to see examples of the other options listed above as well.
The 5 Best Chainmail Bracelets on Etsy
Now that we’ve covered what a chainmail bracelet entails and the different weave styles you can expect to see, let’s get into our top recommendations that you can purchase with ease on Etsy.
As stated previously, the five best chainmail bracelets on Etsy include:
- Stainless Steel Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelet from 2ifByMaille
- Hana Gusari Japanese Chainmail Bracelet from DaveCainChainmail
- Copper European 4-in-1 Chainmail Bracelet from SzkatulkaAmiJewelry
- Gothic Chunky Chainmail 3 Link Hand Made Bracelet from BlackHeartsJewellery
Below, we have provided a brief description of each option so you can better determine when chainmail bracelet suits your budget and aesthetic best.
2ifByMaille Stainless Steel Byzantine Chainmail Bracelet
This stunning bracelet is made of high-quality stainless steel and utilizes the Byzantine weave to create a substantial but overtly slender chain. The width of this bracelet is ¼ inches, making it an ideal option for those who want a chain mail bracelet with a bit of depth, and each bracelet is made-to-order using your specification wrist measurements to ensure the perfect fit.
It’s worth mentioning that if this particular chainmail bracelet does not suit your aesthetics, 2ifByMaille has a shop full of alternatives that vary in color and weave; we guarantee you’re bound to find a chainmail bracelet that is perfect for you within their vast selection.
DaveCainChainmail Hana Gusari Japanese Chainmail Bracelet
DaveCainChainmail lends their exceptional metalwork skills to the creation of chainmail bracelets and other jewelry that have no equal regarding craftsmanship. If you’re looking for a chainmail bracelet that has a bit more width on your wrist versus height (like a cuff) and has a weave history deeply rooted in Japan, then this is an excellent option.
This specific chainmail bracelet boasts the unique Japanese hana gusari weave. This was used in the Nanboku-chō period (1334-1392) and translates to “flower chain” as the style resembles florals. The bracelet measures 0.75” in width and is made of the finest materials, of which you can choose from. Options include sterling silver, silver and gold, 14kt gold fill, and more, which is why this is one of the pricier options on our list, but absolutely worth every cent.
SzatulkaAmiJewelry Copper European 4-in-1 Chainmail Bracelet
A unique Etsy find is this copper bracelet made by SzkatulkaAmiJewelry. Copper is not a common material used for chainmail or jewelry in general, but this shop takes particular care to ensure the final product is exquisite and refrains from blackening the copper to ensure the wearer’s safety. The bracelet is handmade to match your measurements and utilizes another common chainmail weave, the European 4-in-1 pattern to exude a more gothic aesthetic.
BlackHeartsJewellery Gothic Chunky Chainmail 3 Link Hand Made Bracelet
Those of you searching for a relatively simple and budget-friendly chainmail bracelet will appreciate this one created by BlackHeartsJewellery. Made of hypoallergenic and anti-tarnish stainless steel, this bracelet is guaranteed to be comfortable and maintain its appearance on any wearer. The weave is not disclosed in the bracelet’s description (3 link is the only indicator), but it would appear to be a Japanese 6-in-3 chain. It measures 8 inches long and features a lobster claw closure for adjustability.
LinxArt Celtic Hearts Spinal Weave Chainmail Bracelet With Celtic Beads
This chainmail bracelet is an elegant option for anyone who wants to revel in Celtic culture, whether out of personal connection or sheer appreciation. This bracelet features Celtic beads and spacers depicting profound Celtic symbols, such as the triquetra/Trinity knot and is made of plated silver rings used to create the delicate spiral weave.
How Do I Get Started Making My Own Chainmail Bracelet?
As instantly gratifying as it is to simply purchase a chainmail bracelet off Etsy (and there are numerous worthy artists and metalworkers who appreciate you supporting their craft) creating your own chainmail jewelry can be a fantastic hobby that allows you to develop and hone new skills while also exploring the history of this craft and each of its countless weaves.
The best way to get started with making chainmail bracelets is to acquire the necessary tools and materials, and then learn by researching chainmail techniques. You can do this through books, online or in-person courses, or free YouTube videos.
In order to get started making your own chainmail bracelets, you’ll need:
- Pliers
- Wire cutters
- Coil winding mechanism
- Rings (typically stainless steel to get started) or wire
You can sometimes purchase all of these tools and materials together in chainmail kits for convenience. Once you have everything you need, pick a weave you’d like to get started with. Some of the easiest weaves for beginners include the European 4-in-1 or 6-in-1, the box chain, or the half Persian 3-in-1.
After you’ve chosen you weave, find a sources or an online tutorial to follow that shows you the basic of chainmail and how to create the weave properly. The only thing that’s left is to practice, practice, practice.
