In today’s world of constant change the man’s ring is back in fashion. There was a time in history when rings were commonplace on the fingers of the aristocracy, royalty and the elite. However, this trend faded as men began opting for a more spartan appearance, particularly with the advent of the industrial age. The native intelligence and strength associated with masculinity became an important ideal. Jewels and other ornamentation were considered signs of weakness and hence undesirable. Since then, attitudes towards the importance of gender in fashion have relaxed and the ring has yet again become desirable for the fashionable, classy and stylish man.
The Diamond A Man’s Best Friend, Too
The diamond ring has become the go to item for that ‘classic’ look. Reputed jewelry brands such as Tiffany And Company (USA) offer a wide range of unique designs to best express the individual wearer’s identity. Many men do not own any jewelry other than their one signature ring. Interestingly, there is still a stereotypical image of the ‘male’ ring, which usually features several small cut diamonds set into the face of the ring rather than the single larger diamond favored by women.
The Wedding Ring
It is becoming more common, but still rare, that a woman will also buy her partner an engagement ring at the time of the engagement. These are popularly referred to as ‘man gagement’ rings. Despite the current fixation with diamonds, there are alternatives for the diamond centric wedding ring such as birthstones and colored gems such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Smaller diamonds can be used to highlight the face of the ring and provide interesting contrasts.
Exceptions
The pearl is perhaps the only gem not to be favored for the male wedding ring. Other than their historical association with femininity in all the arts, the pearl is simply a difficult stone to set and more prone to damage than others. The pearl is therefore an undesirable choice for a man’s ring from both a cultural and technical standpoint.
The Ring Metal
Gold is still the ring metal of choice for its relatively affordable price and classic look. Silver and steel, among other alloys, are more modern and cheaper alternatives. The range in price between the cheapest and most expensive rings is, on average, almost two hundred dollars. This is due to the possible variations in the stones themselves, as well as the specific metal used.
Style Matters
Men have realized that accessories do not end with cufflinks and tie bars. The true expression of personal style and sophistication is through a ring. Many powerful men in politics, commerce, the media and sport wear their rings as extensions of their intelligence, integrity, persona, charisma, skill, and flair. Though the ring is undoubtedly a status symbol it also transcends the barriers of wealth, class, achievement and privilege into the realm of universal desirability. History has repeated itself: the ring once again maketh the man.
Author Resource:-
Simon Johnnson is the director of content for http://www.executivegiftshoppe.com. They feature a large selection of men’s gifts like golf gifts, cufflinks and engraved flasks.
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