Men's Jewelry: A Guide to Different Styles and How to Wear Them

In recent modern history, men haven’t been known to wear a considerable amount of jewelry (unless you’re a music mogul). A chain here and there and a wedding band are the typical jewelry for men. Sometimes cufflinks and a watch are worn to a formal event, but it’s been rare to see men with an exorbitant amount of jewelry–that is until now. As jewelry has become more front and center to express personal style, it’s becoming more popular with men as well, especially in high fashion.

During ancient times in Egypt and Rome, men showed their status by wearing gold and precious gemstones. This continued throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, always denoting wealth and rank within various communities. As time progressed, this tradition tapered out with the modern male, but has now started to become popular again, so let’s review some great jewelry options for the man in your life.

Wedding Bands and Signet Rings

Rings are the most common type of jewelry worn by men, especially married men. The majority of married men wear a wedding band made of gold, platinum, or one of the popular alternative metals such as titanium, tungsten, or carbon fiber. While a lot of these bands are plain, it's become more common in recent years for men to design custom bands for themselves. These may incorporate some design elements of their partner’s wedding ring to match, or things about their own personality with gemstones, different textures, or mixed metals.

In addition to wedding bands, signet rings are fairly common for men. Historically, signet rings featured a flat top engraved with the family crest, which was used to imprint into melted wax on documents. But for modern purposes, they are a piece of statement jewelry that can be engraved with anything you desire–initials, a number, or other significant symbol of your choice.

Bracelets

Bracelets have been coming back in style for both women and men lately. Metal bracelets for men are available in a variety of metal types such as gold, stainless steel, or alternative metals. They can have wood or carbon fiber inlays, or be braided with other materials. There are also leather men’s bracelets that are woven into different patterns and can be combined with metal for a different look. While beaded bracelets are less common for men, they have had a resurgence, especially during the Taylor Swift Era’s Tour, with the exchange of beaded friendship bracelets. If the man in your life is looking for something a little more sophisticated, try a bracelet with metal or gemstone beads, or even carved wood beads. These can be layered with charms that represent things that are important to him, such as religious symbols or hobbies.

Necklaces

Necklaces are a type of jewelry that has always been fairly popular among men, especially chains. Chains are a versatile accessory that can range from bold to minimal, depending on the chain type and thickness. Chains such as curb or figaro are the most popular for men because they are durable and have a masculine look, often worn alone as statement pieces. Thicker chains like the rope or box chain are also a good choice for men, and they can be worn alone or with a pendant. Because all of these chains come in different widths and lengths, you can choose the one that best fits your style and general stature.

Popular pendants for men are religious symbols or affiliations such as yacht clubs, fraternities, or military service. The most common for the military would certainly be the dog tag, and some military members choose to continue wearing them after their service has ended. There are also now dog tag style necklaces that can be engraved with words, images, or symbols for a fashion accessory.

Watches

Most modern men wear some type of health tracking device such as Apple Watch or Garmin, but every man should also own a classic, signature watch for more formal events. A timeless watch will instantly elevate any outfit and there are so many options available in a variety of price points that there is sure to be one to match every man’s style. Men who appreciate a vintage vibe might enjoy exploring estate collections for pre-owned watches, such as an antique Rolex. Other options include Omega, Tag Heuer and Longines.

Earrings

Diamond stud earrings are the most popular type of earrings for men. If traditional round brilliant diamonds aren’t the desired style, consider any of the alternate diamond shapes such as princess, pear, marquise, asscher, oval, and even heart-shaped diamonds. When choosing diamond studs, it’s important to keep the 4Cs in mind—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—just as you would for any other diamond purchase.

Cufflinks and Tie Bars

Cufflinks and Tie Bars are great accessories for formal events. Cufflinks, which secure the cuff on a dress shirt, vary from simple and small to large and adorned with gemstones, engravings, etc. Also popular are monogrammed cufflinks that can feature important symbols.

You can also consider tie bars, which secure a tie to a dress shirt. You can find them with just about any design that reflects your personal style and interests. They come in different shapes and sizes and can even be matched with your cufflinks to create a put together formal look.

Personalization and Customization

Just like with any type of jewelry, men’s jewelry can certainly be personalized and customized to fit your needs and desires. If you like more color, opt for jewelry in brighter metal options such as rose gold or yellow gold, and bolder gemstones such as emerald, sapphire, and ruby. If you’re passionate about religion or a particular hobby, show it off with a pendant or beaded charm bracelet.

As men’s jewelry continues to become more popular, the selection will only continue to grow as well, with options for all men to enhance their style and make a personal statement. From classic wedding bands and signet rings to bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, there are plenty of jewelry options that allow men to express themselves. Modern men are embracing jewelry as a form of self-expression and leaving behind outdated expectations of men’s style that limited them to only wearing a wedding band. Whether it’s a bold chain, a timeless watch, or a simple diamond stud earring, jewelry can reflect individual style for anyone.