Society has always placed a huge importance on appearance. Before, the factors that made a man look good were only his clothes and shoes. Jewelry was not part of the picture. But because of the influence of media, society has shed the perception that only women could wear jewelry. More and more men are purchasing jewelry to complement their outfits, not just for special occasions but also for work and less formal events. Because of the increased demand for jewelry, companies try to differentiate their products from the others in an attempt to be at the top of the competition. The result is a movement of the design of men's jewelry from the traditional and classic to the stylish and unique, with athletes and celebrities dictating the trend.
In terms of materials, a fusion of the old and the new is considered the ?in? thing. Timeless materials, such as precious metals and gemstones, are used in combination with ordinary items like leather and glass beads. For instance, bracelets, which were once only made of gold and silver, now come in trendier and more jazzed up designs. Some necklaces come in a combination of leather and silver, and are considered chic and classy.
Three new metals are increasingly being more favored as the material of choice for men's accessories. These are stainless steel, titanium, and tungsten carbide. Stainless steel has always been popular with watches, but now it is also used for bracelets and other types of jewelry. This is because of its durability, resistance to scratches, and affordability. It is a metal that you can wear when doing outdoor and daily activities, traveling, and even attending formal events. Tungsten carbide, like stainless steel, is durable and scratch-resistant. Titanium also is extremely strong. It can be produced in different colors because of the process of anodizing. However, in choosing colors, the neutral ones, like silver, grey, and black, are the safest choices.
Platinum is another precious metal that exploded in the jewelry scene a couple of years back. At first, it was just thought of as a passing fad, but the trend stuck even though it is three times as expensive as white gold.
Just recently, punk-inspired designs such as skulls and crossbones have invaded the fashion realm. Such designs can be found in shirts, scarves, jackets, and even jewelry. However, these designs have always been used in motorcycle jewelry, but it is only now that they have been embraced into pop culture. Such designs have always been included in men's jewelry, having the image of rebellion and power, two ideas that have always appealed to men.
Having been popularized by music icons like rappers, R&B singers, and other hip-hop artists, diamonds are increasingly being worn by men. Big silver, white gold, or platinum pendants are embellished with these precious stones. Diamond stud earrings are also considered stylish.
Finally, jewelry trends usually come and go, but there are those that always remain. Timeless pieces, such as steel watches, are what every man should have. They may be simple, but they are always perceived as elegant and classy.
When we say ?jewelry?, it is usually connected among women. But nowadays, even the fashionable male species know that a ring around the finger or a bracelet on the wrist can make a huge impact in his outfit and define his personal style as well. And the good thing is: men's jewelry is not just a trend that passes by for a while.
Historically, men had adornments with different kinds of accessories. From the primitive beaded necklace, precious stones and gold thread in his clothes, classic fob and watches to bull rings and necklaces. Today, men are now becoming more fashionable and experimental with style through jewelry. And unlike before, they are now more comfortable wearing them.
Through jewelry, men are able to express their personal style and identity to the world. Because of that, more varied forms became available and socially acceptable. But then what kind of jewelry do they want? Or rather, as the main basis in choosing jewelry, what do they think catches the ladies? eye?
According to the design experts of GIA, old and new styles are merging in terms of jewelry design. Also, masculine designs are given a feminine twist for that fresh take. And with the growing trend of genderless fashion, jewelry designers are also making pieces that can be worn by both men and women.
There are a lot of kinds of men's jewelry today, but perhaps one of the safest choices is the ring. We're talking about rings as accessory here, not a wedding ring or engagement ring. Designs vary from simple, plain bands to engraved ones, and materials vary from gold, silver, platinum and titanium.
Bracelets are also a popular choice, especially the ID bracelet. These bracelets are the kind with a flat chain and long, curved slab of metal where the name of the owner is engraved. Such bracelets are popular with the growing trend of jewelry that also serves as identification and heirloom pieces.
Among the corporate men, cufflinks are a must-have fashionable item. These serve as fasteners of the cuff part of the long-sleeve shirt or suit. Simple silver, gold and platinum are common, but for the fashionable types, precious and semi-precious stones such as diamonds, black onyx and ruby are also embedded.
And who says earrings are for athletes or rock stars? Even a small stud of diamond or metal worn in one ear can create that masculine appeal. Thus, stud earrings are also gaining popularity among men today.
Aside from these pieces, another item is gaining popularity today: dog tags. Originally identified among military personnel, dog tags also create a tough, manly appeal. And along with ID bracelets, this piece sets the trend for jewelry that also serves as identification. Dog tags are usually made with stainless steel, but fancy types such as those made with gold and silver or embedded with studs are also popular.
But if there's one item that a man must have, it would be the watch. Watches with big faces and made with metal material are identified among men. But nowadays, added functions such as water-proof and glow-in-the-dark hands and numbers are basics in buying one. Designs are improving, as watches today are becoming more and more ?manly?.
With a lot of types, materials and designs available, there is definitely no excuse for a man not to have at least one piece of jewelry. After all, even a single ?bling? can add ?zing? to your outfit.
Jason Tye has sinced written about articles on various topics from Jewelry, Pets and Culture. ? 2008 Jason Tye. Jason Tye is the webmaster and owner of the emporium -