Often thought to be something of a woman’s accessory, jewellery has also played a significant role in men’s fashion. For thousands of years, jewellery has been worn by men to represent political allegiances, power, and varying levels of wealth and status.
Nowadays, men’s jewellery doesn’t hold such a profound political message, but it is still present nevertheless. Now worn to compliment outfits, accentuate certain features, reveal personality and debunk gender norms, men are wearing jewellery more than ever before. Truth be told, the journey of men’s jewellery is truly fascinating.
Thousands of years ago…
The tradition of men wearing jewellery goes back almost 130,000 years ago. Historians believe that the first jewellery was made out of eagle talons, seashells, egg shells and other naturally-sourced materials that were transformed into necklaces and bracelets. In fact, a shell necklace was found that dates all the way back to 82,000 years ago!
It was believed that the material out of which the jewellery was made would transfer powers to the wearer. It could give magical powers and strength.
Ancient Egypt
It wasn’t until Ancient Egypt that jewellery started to resemble the gold and silver trinkets we wear today. Pharaohs were known to wear big necklaces and bracelets to communicate their wealth and power, as well as to protect them in the afterlife after they were buried with the jewellery.
Such jewellery was believed to bring humans closer to god, bringing yet another spiritual dimension to the accessory.
1950 – 1980
Jumping forward a few thousand years to the mid-20th century and jewellery is less a symbol of power and wealth and more a central player in fashion and ‘the look’. With the roaring ’60s and ’70s came a more hippie style that used materials such as hemp, string and beads whilst the onset of hip hop culture in the ’80s and ’90s saw an explosion in gold chains and pendants.
Of course, individual wealth can still be communicated through expensive jewellery, and nothing made a statement quite like the luxury watch. Put on the map by franchises like James Bond, the luxury watch remains a staple in men’s luxury jewellery market.
1990-2000s
In the most recent past, men’s jewellery has become bolder and more gender fluid. Key pieces like men’s diamond earrings and wedding rings show how far the market has come. Now, thanks to open-minded celebrities and queer culture, gendered jewellery is becoming less and less relevant in today’s society.
We’re seeing chunky and delicate pieces in bright, traditionally feminine colours combined together for fun looks that bring unbridled joy.