I am a huge bracelet fan...in fact, I have to say that bracelets are my favorite jewelry accessory.  I also love all things dangly (probably not a real word)!  So, when I was told I'd be reviewing one of the Crazy Love expandable wire bracelets from Alex and Ani, I was pumped!

Alex and Ani's mission is to design products that adorn the body, enlighten the mind, and empower the spirit. Alex and Ani's collections reflect a design aesthetic that celebrates each wearer's unique essence. Owner and designer Carolyn Rafaelian believes it is her life's work to inspire her customers to relish what is unique and authentic about themselves. Alex and Ani's artistry lies in drawing out the beauty that resides within.

The signature expandable concept is the cornerstone of Alex and Ani.

Utilizing an innovative patented and completely original technology this concept replaces traditional clasps with a sliding mechanism, making each piece adjustable. This signature expandable feature is available in expandable wire bracelets and rings, expandable chain necklaces and endless hoop earrings. This completely original design allows everyone to have a piece of jewelry customized for a perfect fit.

Available in precious metals or our signature Russian Gold and Russian Silver finishes and adorned with sacred symbols and stones, the expandable collection is timeless, classic, and collectible.

The Alex and Ani aesthetic underscores the idea that what is pure and natural is most beautiful and creating jewelry from recycled materials enriches the beauty of each piece.  Founder and creative designer Carolyn Rafaelian embraces a philosophy that is based upon using eco-friendly, recycled materials made entirely in the United States. Because of this, Alex and Ani is able to purchase metals from local mills who have received recycled scraps from refineries, which in turn, use those pieces and sell their scraps back to the Mills. Carolyn believes that by creating designs that support the environment and encourage social consciousness, consumers can use their purchases to make a difference in protecting our planet and our future.

I was very happy when I received this bracelet and saw the beautiful black and gold box it came in.  Then, I opened the box and was slightly disappointed with what I saw.  I noticed first off that the bracelet had two black tarnish-like spots on either side of the charm.  I know that this bracelet came in the Russian Silver finish, which is described as having an "antiqued look".  The only problem with that is when the antiquing is only in two places on the bracelet.

To me, this made it look like the finish was coming off in just these two places. I tried cleaning it, not with jewelry cleaner which is much too abrasive, but with my jewelry polishing cloth.  This didn't do anything.  I also tried using mild soap and water, as it states on their website, but this didn't work either.

Besides that, I really liked the Crazy Love charm and noticed that it was even soldered on so as to not fall off.  The bracelet also had two smaller charms, an Alex and Ani logo and a recycle logo, attached too.  I really liked the look of all the charms and was very excited to see how it would look on my wrist.

The bracelet looked nice, but I have very small wrists and so it settled somewhere past the middle of my arm.  I knew that the Alex and Ani jewelry was adjustable, but I was disappointed to find out that their bracelets don't get any smaller, only bigger.  Because my wrist is so small, I normally don't wear bangles, but I thought this time I might be able to.  I guess it's just not in the cards for me.  If you have larger wrists though and want a custom fit, then the wire bracelet will most surely accommodate you.

I really appreciate Alex and Ani's mission to bring us beautiful, eco-friendly jewelry with simple designs. Unfortunately, I was not the biggest fan of their Russian silver finish, since only two places on the bracelet appeared "antiqued". These two places made the bracelet look as if the finish was coming off instead.

I really liked the Crazy Love charm and appreciated that it was soldered on so as not to come off while digging in your pocket or from other wear and tear.  I also liked the fact that the bracelet is expandable, but wished that it started off a little smaller, for those with smaller wrists.  Since the buying of jewelry is a highly personal thing and everybody's opinion is different, I'm leaving this one up to you.