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The first thing that comes to mind when the word jewelry is mentioned is women. Jewelry, for the longest time, has always been associated with women. However, history disproves this since the fascination for jewelry was also shared by men in the early times. Ancient kings and male members of the nobility were fond of jewelry since such valuable pieces were a symbol of wealth, power, and influence. They wore extravagant earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and crowns. They donned clothes lavished with gemstones. Even their weapons were embellished with precious metals. But for some time, the attitude towards jewelry-wearing changed. Society expected men to have nothing of that fancy stuff. However, the men of today are slowly gaining back the confidence in wearing jewelry that they once had.

Nowadays, there is virtually no end to the kinds and designs of jewelry available to men. Men are now more at ease with wearing jewelry. In fact, most are not content with the usual watch anymore. They are now more comfortable with complementing their outfits with matching jewelry. Common items that men are given or even shop for themselves include watches, bracelets, earrings, chains, rings, cufflinks, and money clips. The trend is increasingly becoming so popular that the men's jewelry industry experienced a growth of 20 percent in the past few years. As such, established brands of jewelry, such as Bulgari and Cartier, have released more items for the male category. In addition, newer brands are being introduced to the market to cater to the increased demand for men's jewelry.

Jewelry experts say that a fusion between old and new styles is emerging. New materials, designs, and types of jewelry have become more socially acceptable for men. The jewelry industry has indeed taken advantage of the growing awareness of gender equality. Materials, such as pearls, that once were only used in making women's jewelry are now being utilized in men's accessories, but paired with more *manly* materials like leather. Classic pieces, such as cufflinks, were once made only in gold, silver, and platinum. But now, other colorful stones such as rubies, garnets, and diamonds adore the once plain cufflink as a testament to elegant, contemporary masculinity. Even stainless steel, which was only seen in watches before, is increasingly being incorporated into fine men's jewelry because of its platinum-like shine, durability, and affordability.

But these pieces of men's jewelry are not just limited for celebrities and athletes. Since jewelry is now the *in* thing, more and more men are inclined to wear the fancy stuff. The jewelry that is created nowadays caters to different market segments. There are those appropriate for a specific occupation. Jewelry for businessmen is different from that which is for rock stars. There are also those that are appropriate for a certain age group.

So don*t be shocked if one day, every man you meet is wearing some form of accessory. Jewelry-wearing is a trend that is becoming more and more accepted and popular. It is actually not surprising, since jewelry carries with it the message that the wearer is rich, confident, influential, and handsome.