They're called beeras and are typically found in Trinidad. There's no symbolism but is a strong cultural phenomenon that's found in almost all the races on the island. It's traditionally a sign of wealth, the thicker and higher the karat, the more affluent the wearer is. They're also called cocoa heads because the ends used to be fashioned after cocoa pods. Both slaves and indentured labourers worked on the cocoa plantations so it is representational of the country's history. You find them both in gold and silver but because of the amount of metal used they are very expensive. That is why you may see more silver than gold ones but both remain popular. Your bracelets are thinner than the more traditional ones which are typically two or three times the thickness of yours for women and even thicker for men. They are sold in pairs to make a clinking sound when one uses the hand. They're made by most gold and silversmiths on the island, not just the Indian silversmiths. I've collected them for years. They are special pieces. Take good care of them!
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