From the ancient civilizations to modern society, the history of men adorning themselves with jewelry reflects the societal and cultural shifts of the time. Recently, stars like Harry Styles and Shawn Mendes shook the world, leading the charge in a new trend in men’s jewelry. In this ultimate guide to men’s jewelry, explore the significance of men’s jewelry throughout history to the modern trends shaping the way men accessorize today.
The History Of Men’s Jewelry
The journey of men’s jewellery offers a fascinating insight into the artistic movements and cultural phenomenon’s of the time. From the religious significance of jewellery during Ancient Egypt to the men’s fashion trends of 2024, we uncover a brief history of men’s jewelry.
Ancient Egypt
In ancient Egypt, jewellery was often worn by pharaohs and made using gold and inappropriate stones. Many times, jewellery symbolized religious belief and was also closely linked to the afterlife. Many tombs were furnished with jewellery, including elaborate necklaces and bracelets, that were worn by the elite to protect them in the afterlife.
Ancient Greece
The ancient Greeks men used to adorn a lot of jewelry to show off their achievements and social status. Stones such as abalone jewelry and citrine jewelry intaglios were commonly in use. Signet rings were also extensively used by the men of that era. Not only were these worn as ornaments, but functional uses, such as stamping wax impressions on letters, were common uses associated with these.
Middle Ages
Symbolism and metaphors became intense in jewelry in the Middles Ages and were customarily worn to express personal beliefs. Jewelry further assumed the role of power and, of course, wealth. The nobility would donornate headdresses, many bearing crowns with gemstones and pearls.
Renaissance Era
It is in the renaissance period that more creative men’s jewelry returned. Gemstones were mounted on pendants and chains as a sign of individualism, that was the main characteristic of the period. Lockets were also worn with portraits inside showing the more sentimental side of men’s jewelry. The lockets enabled men to carry their loved ones inside.
Victorian Era
The Victorian Era was characterized by social change and industrialization. As Romanticism, a cultural movement that espoused individualism, became the rage, individualism was also prominent in men’s jewelry. Men sported lockets containing hair and photographs. Moreover, when Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, died, it was usual to see men wearing mourning jewelry. Men’s jewelry, as a form of mourning for loved ones during those times, was forged using dark materials such as onyx. Birthstone jewelry was also popular in the Victorian Era as a means of self-expression. Each month has its special stone, and if worn, brings luck and protection to the wearer.
The 20th Century
The 20th century brought about a very huge change in men’s jewelry with the cultural revolutions and fashion trends. The flowing lines and organic forms of Art Nouveau had a very huge influence on jewellery designed for men at the beginning of the 20th century. By the middle of the 20th century, men’s jewelry had turned into an important means of self-expression. Leather cuffs and pendant necklaces took the lead. Then, for the 1970s and 1980s, it was ruled by the rock and pop culture; oversized rings, chunky chains, and earrings were worn as a fashion statement. By the turn of the 20th century, technology had exposed the use of various materials like titanium and carbon fibre in mens jewelry.
21st century
The 21st century has marked an emerging frontier in self-expression and innovation.
Mens jewelry has changed to echo the changing styles, influences, and materials. Over time, men have begun to adopt a broad spectrum of pieces that stray from the traditional stereotype of what is considered normal, with pearls, gemstones, and lockets fashionable for men. What seems to be driving men’s jewelry in the 21st century is personalization and individuality. Photo lockets and engraved pieces are becoming ever more popular because they allow the wearer to keep loved ones close.
Basically, men’s jewelry designing has become an important factor with increasing awareness towards the environment and sustainable jewelry. Not only that, but generation is also reaching out more and more for responsibly sourced materials and ethically mined gemstones.
Men’s Jewelry: The Fashion Trend of 2024
Well, men’s jewellery is going to be everywhere in 2024. Men wearing august birthstone jewelry just marked the beginning for one of the most giant style trends this entire month of august has to offer. Men’s jewelry has gained steam, which indebtedly regards style icons like Harry Styles and Daniel Kaluuya. It hiked the gauge in popularity by donning gemstone necklaces, brooches, and diamonds.
Types Of Men’s Jewellery In 2024
Men’s Pendants:
Through history, men have sported lockets containing miniature pictures of loved ones. Today, men’s lockets are increasingly becoming popular ways to carry loved ones and hold memories close to the heart. This moment is happening for a 925 Silver Shine Men’s Round Locket Necklace. This locket can be engraved and opens to reveal two photos or a tiny keepsake inside.
Men’s Necklaces:
Not just for celebrities anymore, men’s necklaces are an easy way to add sophistication to your look. Whether you’re coming out with a paperclip chain necklace or being stylish with a dog tag, do it with a 925 Silver Shine Men’s Necklace to upgrade any outfit.
Men’s Rings:
Bring any outfit up a notch with our wide variety of men’s rings. From simple, hammered bands for everyday style to beautiful gemstone rings perfect for special occasions, see our selection of men’s rings to be inspired.
Men’s Pearls:
Pearls are definitely back in fashion for guys in 2024, especially with stars like Harry Styles wearing them. The 925 Silver Shine Men’s Seed Pearl june birthstone jewelry features fresh water pearls that have organically cultivated themselves inside freshwater mussels. It is substantial to be worn independently but light enough to mix easily with other items of jewelry.
How To Care For Men’s Jewelry
Proper care of men’s jewelry involves keeping the jewelry clean and shiny.
At 925 Silver Shine, we will include a complimentary jewelry care kit with every order, including a jewelry storage pouch. The Intercept technology involves using a patent polymer in the pouch lining that keeps the jewelry clean. We recommend storing jewelry in the pouch when it’s not being worn. Another top tip for looking after men’s jewelry is to clean it regularly using a polish cloth. Yes, with every order, we provide a free polish cloth. Just wipe your jewellery with the cloth to help retain its shine.
