I'm thinking of starting one for MIL for Christmas. I'm waiting to hear if S&BIL want in on it, but in the meantime, I'm trying to get an idea of how much it costs and the best place to buy.
Assuming B&SIL don't join in, I'd like to do a simple silver bracelet and then three charms for each of MILs kids, plus a turtle (we're a big UMD family). The official Pandora birthstone charms seem crazy expensive. Any suggestions for off brands that are still nice and Pandora compatible? Where to buy?
Also, what is this spacer business all about? Are they required?
Anything I'm missing? I feel so stupid asking this many questions about a bracelet, but it's like a whole other culture or something!
Re: Anyone in to Pandora bracelets?
They are crazy expensive to go authentic Pandora. And if you put anything on it that isn't authentic Pandora, the lifetime warranty on the bracelet is voided.
Spacers go between the shaped beads to give a layer of protection- some of them (like the giraffe, or the baby shaped ones) have protrusions that could rub into another bead with constant contact, so their solution is to buy the spacer bead. and its sides are not going to ruin your expensive charm beads.
My MIL is into them too, so I have had to do all the same research.
I have found that it is best to stick with the plainer silver beads rather than try to go with the jeweled stuff.
I buy them at the Pandora store at Tyson's because they can keep a log of the beads an individual who registers with them has on their bracelet. It is nice to be able to know if BIL/ SIL/ FIL have purchased charms for her since I bought last so we don't overlap.
Also, their customer service is really good- it is like Tiffany, they'll clean everything for you and return it to you if your bracelet is found and returned to them. They'll also replace anything that breaks free of charge with no questions asked.
Stand up for something you believe in.
you should also do a charm for your DS and any other grandkids your MIL has
That's the plan for future years/gifts.