Vintage jewelry for Men

Jewellery for men is now acceptable as a fashion statement and more and more men are turning to vintage and antique vintage jewellery for these adornments. Colourful beaded jewellery, the use of gemstones and crystals has helped to make vintage jewellery for men very popular all around the world.

Types of Men’s Vintage Jewellery

Filigree rings, bracelets, pendants, cufflinks, watches, charms and themed key chains are the types of vintage jewellery for men that are quite the rage. Filigree is the name given to patterns of intricate wire work in silver, gold and platinum and is used on tiepins, bracelets and the like, while in women’s jewellery it is used in brooches, pins and necklaces. Engagement rings in filigree come in platinum and yellow gold in beautiful designs and styles. Two tone rings in platinum and gold as well as themed cuff links and money clips are some of the items in vintage jewellery that are quite fancied by men. Silver charms are also quite popular.

Styles in Men's Jewellery

The Edwardian style of vintage men’s jewellery is less ornate than the Victorian style that preceded it and is still very popular. The designs are classic and simple and more in tune with the modern couture than the Victorian style. The bow and swag design appeared in many pieces of that time, though more used in earrings, pendants and brooches. Most of these pieces are made in 15 ct gold, with stones inset into flower designs.

Art Nouveau vintage jewellery with striking designs was introduced in the beginning of the twentieth century. They mainly dealt with nature and a world of fantasy and were characterised by flowing asymmetrical lines and floral designs. Patterns mainly had jewellery for women in mind with just a few pieces made to cater to the taste of men.

The Art Deco style of vintage jewellery dates back to the 1920s. Stones used in these jewellery pieces were mainly semi precious and artificial stones. European cut and old cut diamonds were used in men’s rings to make them more glamorous. Rock crystals, pearls and corals were also used. Geometric shapes were predominant and the materials used varied from plastic, chrome and steel besides the conventional gold, silver and platinum. Repeated lines and mirrored surfaces dominate Art Deco vintage jewellery. The vintage jewellery made during this period has been classified as antique vintage jewellery and has great value besides a timeless charm.

The Art Deco period ended with the World War II due to shortage of supply of chrome, steel and platinum. The sharp angles that were a feature of Art Deco got muted to curves, and due to war shortages small diamonds and rubies were used. Designs were inspired by mechanical objects and thin gold sheets were used to conserve the metal.

Men’s vintage Jewellery is also available in the form of costume and fashion jewellery. They are composed of attractive rings in gold and rhodium. Multi strand chains in gold are also fancied and extensively worn by men. Another popular form off antique vintage jewellery is the items known as Figaro chains. They are generally made in 14 carat and 18 carat gold or even in sterling silver. The chains can be between 16 to 24 inches long. The origin of the design is Italian.

Handmade jewellery and one of a kind handcrafted men’s vintage jewellery is quite in vogue. Beaded necklaces, gold and diamond watches, gemstone bracelets, and vintage rings and earrings make quite a fashion statement for men. Designs in Gothic and Celtic styles are quite appreciated. Handmade jewellery for men is quite expensive because a lot of authentic crystals and pure metals are used. Glass beads, Sworavski crystals, and the use of ruby, garnet, emerald, bloodstone and amethyst further adds to the high cost. Name necklaces with intricate filigree work and wire is made by designers who hand craft these pieces of men’s vintage jewellery.