Making A Difference: Rubber Bracelet Jewelry by Art Gib

Jewelry has always been a way for people to express their individuality. Starlets walking the red carpet at awards ceremonies are always eager to show off the latest in high end sparklers on their ears, wrists, and necks. The creations worn by these women are almost always one-of-a-kind and the stars like it that way. But a relatively recent trend has shown that the most popular jewelry nowadays is not intended to display just individuality, rather, it is also meant to show unity with thousands of other people in support for a cause.

In the last decade, there has been a virtual explosion in the wearing of cause-related jewelry। The type most often seen is the rubber bracelet. Groups of people might wear one in support of Breast Cancer Awareness, world peace, AIDS prevention, save the oceans: the possibilities are literally limitless. This type of jewelry can be both an individual expression of belief and a communal togetherness endeavor.

The idea of wearing an accessory as a universal show of support is not a new one: during the 1980's, celebrities and other concerned folks wore red ribbons on their lapels to keep the world thinking about the AIDS epidemic. The concept of rubber bracelets worn to

spotlight a cause was made popular by champion cyclist Lance Armstrong, who was never without his "Live Strong" jewelry।

The idea was first adopted by charitable groups who looked to the sale of these products as a mean to raise funds for their worthy endeavors। The group could pay a manufacturer to mass produce a unique bracelet in a specially chosen color, imprinted with a logo or a saying. A percentage from the sale of this jewelry goes to the charity, and supporters have a visual means whereby they can show their devotion to a cause.

Rubber bracelets have since evolved into a way to advertise, promote or celebrate just about anything, from a favorite university to a golden anniversary। It's not unusual to see teenagers wearing an assortment of colored bands on their lower arms: they have become the ultimate must-have accessory, and they're comfortable too!

The affordability and current popularity of such jewelry

make it a great fundraiser for any group or organization. The bracelets are a public show of belief or support, and their visibility encourages people to ask questions about them when they see them being worn। Rubber bracelets and other types of such jewelry have become a part of our culture, and have gone a long way toward increasing public awareness about some very worthy causes.

About the Author
For the very best in cause-related peace jewelry, check out the wide variety of styles and colors available through Fadia Otte (http://www.safeworldpeacenow.com/). Art Gib is a freelance writer.