# Slave bracelets (hand chains) and ID bracelets

> ID bracelets carry an engraved plate, a christening gift in Spain and Latin America; “slave bracelet” also names a hand chain, a bracelet linked to a ring.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/slave-and-id-bracelets/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-07-02
- Updated: 2026-07-02
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/esclavas-y-pulseras-de-identificacion/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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The terminology is tricky. In Spanish, the *esclava* is a link bracelet with a central plate engraved with a name or date, a traditional christening and communion gift. In English, “slave bracelet” has also been used for another piece: a bracelet joined by a chain to a ring.

## ID bracelets (the Spanish esclava)

A chain and a rectangular or oval plate. The Spanish name is usually explained by its resemblance to old shackles; today it simply designates this type of bracelet. In English it is called an *ID bracelet* or identification bracelet.

## Slave bracelets as hand chains

In English, “slave bracelet” has also named a bracelet joined by a chain to a ring (a “hand chain” or hand flower), typical of South Asian and Middle Eastern jewelry. Because of the name's historical weight, sellers now prefer *hand chain*.

## Materials

18 karat [gold](https://www.711grados.com/en/gold/), sterling [silver](https://www.711grados.com/en/silver/), stainless steel and gold plating. On children's bracelets, the weight and plate size are scaled to the wrist.

## Engraving and size

Engrave a name, date or dedication; the back is often left free for another phrase. Choose the size with [how to measure a bracelet](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-measure-bracelet-size/); children's bracelets are sometimes bought with an extender.

## Care

Clean with lukewarm water and mild soap, and check the clasp and links regularly.

## See also

- [Bracelets and bangles](https://www.711grados.com/en/bracelets-and-bangles/)
- [How to measure bracelet and bangle size](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-measure-bracelet-size/)
- [How to clean gold jewelry at home](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-gold-jewelry/)