Discover in a Glance: Song Dynasty Arm Jewelry Chan Chuan 缠钏

One type of arm jewelry worn by women of the Song dynasty that may not be widely known is Chan Chuan (缠钏 ; chán chuàn). This piece of jewelry is also known by several other names, such as Tiaotuo (跳脱 ; tiào tuō), Tiaotuo (条脱 ; tiáo tuō), or Chan Bi Jin (缠臂金 ; chán bì jīn).

Chan Chuan is usually made of gold or silver rods shaped into a spiral, resembling a spring. The number of coils can vary; some have only two turns, while others consist of many coils. At the ends, the bracelet is wrapped with thick thread as a fastening lock that can be moved left or right to adjust the tightness.

Its surface can be decorated with floral patterns or left plain without engraving. Chan Chuan is a very feminine piece of jewelry, most suitable to be worn by women with fuller upper arms. The golden shine of this arm bracelet accentuates skin as white as snow and enhances the charm of softness and elegance of the wearer.

Source: 《我在宋朝穿什么》 by 陆蕾