Mens Diamond Rings & The Rise In Men´s Jewellery

by Gary Ingram

Lately the world has become quite literally bling-tastic for men, as both celebrities and sporting stars alike choose not to be outdone by their womenfolk. Instead Hollywood icons and the like are now opting to wear their own show-stopping baubles. With so many perfectly formed male specimens following the trend to wear jewellery, from men's diamond rings through to diamond studs and necklaces, it is becoming increasingly acceptable for the everyday man to do the previously unthinkable and throw on some diamonds.

While we´re still not at the stage where men can feel comfortable stepping out in chandelier earrings and diamond tiaras, it is a considerable step forward after years of restriction and censor. The sixties and seventies first heralded a change in attitude when it became fashionable for men to wear certain types of jewellery such as beads and ethnic pieces. Still the glitzier stuff was left primarily for the women. Before this, men's jewellery was conceived more out of functionality rather than adornment. Items such as tie clips and collar pins, wristwatches and cigarette cases were substituted to add that stylish touch.

From at least the Victorian era it was seen as inappropriate and distasteful for men to flaunt great riches in the form of jewellery. Modesty was highly valued. This belief is held by followers of the Qur'an in which it is stated that men should not be seen in gold jewellery or wearing anything, clothes or otherwise, which denotes power or wealth. As is the case in most cultures though women have much greater freedom to wear jewellery, particularly as it is used to enhance beauty.

Nowadays, men are becoming more and more aware of their own appearance though and the image they present. Looking good is no longer just reserved for the female of the species and with this desire comes an increased interest in jewellery. The trend first became popular after rappers and hip hop stars from the late 1980´s onwards wore highly ostentatious and elaborate pieces to demonstrate wealth. This finally gave a masculine edge to the wearing of jewellery, slowly moving it away from only being the preserve of women.

With sporting stars such as Mike Tyson and David Beckham backing the trend it made it even more accessible to the regular guy on the street. The wearing of wedding bands was widely undertaken by men from the early 1900s, but it has not been until much more recently that men's engagement rings have started to become more common place. As equality grows, women want to propose to their partners themselves and so styles have evolved that are suitable for men, ranging from handmade engagement rings through to standard fare.