Men's Jewelry Buying Guide
Jewelry for guys can often be tricky, as there are so many options out there to choose from. There are pieces of shell jewelry 
made for the dude on the beach and then there are stylish classic looks, perfect for the aspiring James Bond. No matter what your style, though, we just don't want you to end up looking like Mr. T, because we all pity the fool who tries to match his trademark statement. So read on for some helpful tips and recommendations that are sure to work for every man's preference...without over-doing it.
An Overview
First, it's important to think about what kind of jewelry men today are wearing. Men's silver jewelry and men's gold jewelry remain the most popular, but platinum is also on the scene, and the industrial metals--tungsten and titanium jewelry--have debuted to rave reviews. Steel, specifically surgical stainless steel body jewelry, has also begun to make its mark.
It's also necessary to evaluate what types of "man jewelry" are the most attractive. Many men will say that watches are their top pick, but rings and necklaces are quite popular, as are cuff links and bracelets. Earrings and body jewelry also top the list.
Watches
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- There are countless options, from battery-powered to mechanical, from sporty to sophisticated. We suggest having different watches for both work and play, if your lifestyle merits it or if you simply like having variety. However, when buying a nicer watch, you should choose something that is classic and more lasting.
- When it comes to sporty and technical watches, they have a tendency to be less expensive--such as those made by Nike and Polar. And they are clearly made with function in mind.
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Rings
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- When it's time to tie the knot, grooms' rings can be a simple band with a diamond accent, or a big hefty ring, sparkling with diamond studs. Love (and marriage) should last forever, so this is definitely the time to spend what you must to get the wedding band that you really want, without worrying about the price.
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Necklaces and Chains
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- Men's necklaces, more often called a neck chain or, simply, a chain, generally run from 18 to 24 inches in length. This is enough to get around husky necks, but not so long that the bottom extends below the sternum, where many women's necklaces drop. You should also know that the terms chain, medallion, necklace, and pendant are often used interchangeably, so be sure to look carefully and know exactly what you're buying before placing your order.
- Dog tags seem to be the most popular of men's necklaces right now (they are easily personalized by engraving), but unadorned gold chains and silver chains are also in fashion, and probably always will be. Generally, men avoid large pendants or medallions, but defining "large" is an individual choice.
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Cuff Links
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- Cuff links may be the most limited men's jewelry item, wearable only with a French-cuff shirt. What they lack in versatility, they make up for with diversity. This puts them among the most-frequently gifted men's jewelry!
- They are a chance for a man to show off his work, his ethnicity, his hobby, or anything else about himself, while showing off his elegant good taste. Cuff links can come with a team logo, a professional symbol, etc., and can come accented with special gemstones or crystal.
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Bracelets
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- Another thing that we see all around are medical bracelets. If you have a medical condition, medical alerts are great, especially on ID bracelets with a small compartment that could hold vital information ( your doctor's name, allergies, conditions, etc.). Available in metals like sterling silver and titanium, this bracelet can be both classy and practical.
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Earrings
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- Men's earrings took their popularity a few years ago with specific social groups, but they have now become widely accepted everywhere. Though pirates wear hoops and Elton John goes dangley, our favorite male earring style still remains the single diamond stud.
- Men's earrings also have a distinct advantage over women's earrings; since most men wear only one, the earring dollar stretches twice as far!
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Religious Items
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- Some jewelry icons have even transcended their own religions; many people believe in guardian angels, donning the charm, and you certainly don't have to be a Druid to appreciate a tasteful Celtic knot.
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Related Guides
See some of our related guides for even more ideas!
External Links
- Buzzle.com: Read more about the importance of a medical ID bracelet.
- JewelryFacts.net: See the latest jewelry trends for men and read about how more guys are finding jewelry more manly.
- Overstock.com: Check out this guide to body jewelry!
International Resources
For this resource in your home country, please see:
DE: Schmuck fuer den Mann
