Sizes

If you want to be safe, go with the 3/8” (or 13 mm) Medium size links as they are, by far, the most common. You will have the biggest selection of charms in this category. Of course, many manufacturers offer smaller sizes for ankle bracelets and those wanting a sleeker look. They also have larger sizes that are sometimes used for bolder look, on watches, or for men’s bracelets (although I can’t imagine too many men wearing these things.)

More information on Italian Charm Sizes

Styles

Italian Charms come in a wide variety of styles although nearly all of the major brands are interchangeable with each other.

Enamel Charms: These are what most people think of when they picture Italian charms. These are gold charms that are hand painted and soldered onto a steel link. More information on Enamel Charms.

Dangle Charms: These charms can be very similar to other Italian charms except that they are affixed to a link in a fashion similar to a conventional charm bracelet. These can often be larger and shaped with a specific look.

Laser Charms: These charms are typically just the steel links with words or pictures etched into them. The selection is limitless and customization is easy, but they are not real colorful. More information on laser charms.

Photo Charms: Similar to a traditional locket, these incorporate a photograph or image onto the steel link. More information on photo charms.

Materials

Most Italian Charms are made with stainless steel links and 18K gold charms, but many manufacturers are now offering colored bracelets and variations that come in sterling silver, gold, or gold trimmed steel. As with all jewelry, you can just pick what you like. The big concern that most people have is that many “Italian style” charms are not made with high quality metals. You can read more about cheap Italian charms here.