This article first appeared in the JNA March/April 2024 issue.

Men’s jewellery is progressing beyond traditional watches and wedding bands as men steadily embrace the wearing of jewellery to express their personality and individual style. From intricately crafted necklaces to bold rings and stylish bracelets, jewellery is becoming an integral part of men’s everyday fashion choices or special occasion picks.

According to jewellers, the industry has witnessed a surge in the number of male celebrities effortlessly adorning themselves with eclectic jewellery pieces. The influence displayed by these trendsetters has played a pivotal role in driving consumer demand in recent years.

And while the market is dominated by a few renowned brands, an increasing number of jewellery manufacturers and designers are jumping on the men’s jewellery bandwagon as they recognise the potential of this growing market. They are also offering more options to cater to rising consumer demand for innovative designs.

Gem sparkle

While traditional materials such as gold and silver are popular choices for men’s jewellery, more contemporary designs increasingly feature a wider variety of gems. The designs skilfully blend style and masculinity with a touch of elegance.

Abhishek Patel, vice president of US-based jewellery manufacturer Dialust Inc, said his clients are keen on acquiring jewellery pieces embellished with more diamonds.

A signature collection from Dialust comprises diamond-studded rings, which come in yellow, white and rose gold. Yellow gold is the most preferred choice among US consumers, according to Patel.

He also noted that consumers are fond of diamond pendants with symbolic motifs such as lightning bolts, crosses and feathers. Founded in 2018, Dialust offers a diverse range of fine jewellery for male consumers.

“Demand for coloured gemstones and pearls is picking up. Diamonds combined with coloured gemstones and pearls are very trendy now,” Patel said.

Oi Chan, director of men’s jewellery brand Aequa & Co, echoed this view, saying that their latest baroque pearl jewellery set comprising a necklace, bracelet and single earring has been well-received by customers. Another highly sought-after piece is a gold chain with pearls and lion-inspired charms.

Jewellery adorned with coloured gemstones is likewise gaining traction, Chan added. She considers the London bracelet set with London blue topaz from Aequa & Co's Hue Collection as an ideal example of a modern fine coloured gemstone jewellery piece for men. Also grabbing attention in this collection is the Cuban Diam ring featuring a peridot centre stone and diamond accents, which puts a unique spin on the classic Cuban chain ring.

“We receive a lot of requests for the Cuban Diam ring as well as enquiries about the make of the product,” Chan said.

Officially launched in 2023, Aequa & Co offers an array of accessible fine jewellery pieces targeting millennials and Gen Z consumers.

Colour is the new black for Hong Kong jewellery designer Flow Wong who recently developed a selection of coloured gemstone jewellery pieces featuring aquamarine, topaz, rhodolite, tourmaline, peridot and citrine for his men’s jewellery brand, Flow Design Craftsmanship.

“I used to create monochromatic jewellery but I recently started to incorporate more coloured gems into my designs. Vibrant jewellery pieces tend to be more captivating. Colourful and sparkling jewellery is not exclusively feminine; it can be incredibly stylish for men, too,” he said.

Wong strives to offer a fresh perspective on jewellery for men, breaking away from the notions of simple, ultra-masculine designs. His latest work explores vintage aesthetics with a contemporary touch using modern jewellery-making techniques.

“The Vintage x Contemporary ring designs capture the essence of vintage style, but you will notice that the curves and structures are impeccably balanced. This is achieved by utilising 3D modelling as well as traditional craftsmanship techniques,” he explained.

Self-expression

Innovative designs have been instrumental in making men’s jewellery more mainstream. Jewellery brands, for instance, offer an array of refined chains, statement rings and versatile bracelets, each crafted to serve as bold expressions of the wearer’s individuality.

Patel of Dialust explained, “Consumers are looking for exclusive, unique pieces that resonate with their personal style. They want to express themselves through their jewellery choices.”

He added that consumers are fond of stacking their jewellery and wearing multiple chains and a statement pendant. This particular style has become trendy among today’s male consumers.

“Our customers are looking for versatile pieces that they can wear anytime, anywhere,” Chan of Aequa & Co shared. “Celebrities and famous personalities have been seen wearing Aequa & Co’s jewellery pieces to many different functions and when performing on stage or attending personal events.”

Chan said Aequa & Co’s objective is to create sophisticated and contemporary men’s jewellery pieces that are ideal for every occasion, aligning with the prevailing demand.

While the US and European markets are more receptive to men’s jewellery pieces, there is a growing trend in Asia of male consumers wearing jewellery as a fashion item, demonstrating glowing opportunities for jewellers in 2024, Patel added.