A Little History, A Lot of Meaning: The Story Behind Charms

If you've followed us for a while, you already know I’m obsessed with charms. Not just because they’re cute (which, obviously, they are), but because every single charm tells a story.

And here's the thing… this isn’t a new trend. Charms have been around for thousands of years. They’ve carried meaning, magic, and memories long before we started stacking them on our wrists for aesthetics. So today, I wanted to share a little piece of that history with you, because when you wear a charm, you're part of something ancient, powerful, and beautifully feminine.

Let’s dive in. 

Charms: Born from Belief

The history of charms starts way, way back, think 75,000 years ago. Our ancestors carved little trinkets out of bones, shells, stones, and wood. These weren’t just cute accessories; they were worn as amulets, spiritual symbols of protection, luck, or love. People believed charms could shield them from bad spirits, attract blessings, or serve as reminders of something sacred.

In ancient Egypt, charms were taken even more seriously. Egyptians believed certain symbols held divine power, and charms were worn to guide people safely into the afterlife. Some were even buried with their owners, meant to protect them forever. That’s how deeply meaningful these pieces were. Imagine loving something so much that you take it with you into eternity.

It was never just about fashion. It was always about feeling seen, safe, and connected to something bigger.

From Warriors to Royalty

As the world evolved, so did the way people used charms.

In the Roman Empire, soldiers wore charms for identification in battle, basically ancient dog tags. These tokens could indicate allegiance, honour, and bravery. Meanwhile, regular folks wore charms for protection, love, and spiritual strength.

In the Middle Ages, knights would carry charms into war, hoping they’d bring victory and shield them from harm. Religious symbols like crosses or saints became common. Even back then, people needed a little something to hold onto, something that made them feel brave, grounded, and hopeful.

And then… came a queen who changed everything.

Queen Victoria and the Rise of Sentimental Jewellery

Enter: Queen Victoria, the ultimate trendsetter.

In the 1800s, Queen Victoria turned charm bracelets into the must-have accessory among aristocrats. But her charms weren’t just decorative. She wore lockets, portraits, initials, and even strands of her loved ones’ hair (yes, for real!). Her jewellery was deeply emotional, full of memory and meaning.

This was the turning point. Charms became symbols of sentiment, not just superstition. They told stories. They held pieces of people and places. They became a wearable diary.

Thanks to her, charm bracelets became more than accessories; they became heirlooms.

The 20th Century: Charms Get Personal

In the 1900s, the popularity of charm bracelets exploded. Women started building charm collections that reflected their personal journeys. Every charm marked a memory, a birthday, a graduation, a new baby, a love story.

During World War II, soldiers would bring home charms from different cities or countries as keepsakes for their sweethearts, wives, or daughters. These weren’t just souvenirs, they were tokens of hope, love, and survival.

By the 1950s and 60s, charm bracelets were everything. Mothers passed them down. Daughters added to them. Every charm held a meaning, a moment, a chapter.

Honestly? I love that energy. It’s timeless. 

Today’s Charms: A Love Letter to You

In 2025, charms are still just as meaningful, but now they’re also playful, expressive, and modern.

Some of us choose charms based on aesthetics. Some are based on astrology. Others are based on what season of life we’re in. Whether you’re drawn to a star, a butterfly, a lock, or your initial, there’s usually a deeper reason. Your intuition guides you to the pieces you need, even if you don’t fully realise it in the moment.

And that’s the real magic of charms.

They become a love letter to yourself. A little reminder of your story, your strength, your dreams.

That’s exactly why I’m working on something so close to my heart…

Coming Soon: The Armour Femme Charm Lounge

Right now, something special is brewing behind the scenes: the Charm Lounge.

The Charm Lounge is launching very soon, and trust me, it’ll be worth the wait.” I cannot wait to share it with you.

The Charm Lounge will be a beautiful, intimate experience, a chance for you to design your own charm bracelet, choosing pieces that reflect your journey. Whether you’re celebrating a win, moving through something hard, or manifesting new beginnings, you’ll be able to create a bracelet that feels deeply personal.

It’ll be more than just a workshop. It’ll be a moment. A memory. A celebration of you.

So keep your eyes peeled. 

Tell Me Your Charm Story

So now that you know the rich history behind charms, how these tiny treasures have been protecting, guiding, and honouring women for millennia. I want to hear your story.

Do you already have a charm that means something special to you?
Maybe it’s a gift from someone you love.
Maybe it marks a chapter you never want to forget.
Maybe it’s something you bought for yourself, as a reminder of how far you’ve come.

Whatever it is, I’d love to hear it.

Come chat with us over on Instagram @armourfemme and tell me what your charms mean to you. And of course, make sure you're signed up for emails so you’re the first to know when the Charm Lounge officially launches.

Because your story? It deserves to be worn.

With so much love,

Farhana K.