i used to think they were kinda dorky too... but now i think theyre super cute
my mom has one that revolves around a travel theme:
a shamrock from when i went to ireland
and eiffel tower from paris
dolphin from hawaii
a little boat from one of her cruises
a sombrero from mexico
cactus from arizona
she has a bunch more but i can't remember them
whenever she wears it she always has a fun story for people about each charm - it's a great converation starter!