The Ultimate Guide to Men's Jewelry: From Classic to Trendy, Find Your Perfect Piece Here

Credit: Mejuri

Our team is dedicated to finding and telling you more about the web’s best products. If you purchase through our links, we may receive a commission. Our editorial team is independent and only endorses products we believe in.

We like

We don't like

Since it was first created around 3,000 B.C., jewelry has primarily been focused on women. Sure, there were a few pharaohs and kings decked out in necklaces and precious stones, but the decoration and adornment of females have been the primary focus for the craft ever since beads were strung together and metal melted. Even today, as a massive worldwide business, women make up 80% of the global jewelry market. Jewelry for men has always been secondary, and males have mostly shied away from any adornment, sticking to utilitarian options like a watch and wedding ring.

But in 2024, it appears men are finally ready to shine a bit brighter, and donning jewelry is more equitable and appealing than ever before.  An increase in the appearance of men’s jewelry on red carpets (as evidenced at the Oscars earlier this month) as well as the blurring of gender lines has led to a renaissance of sorts, seeing more and more men embrace and adorn themselves in necklaces, bracelets, rings. But even for the average guy who’s not planning to sport an expensive piece, jewelry can be just as appealing in the everyday. The right kind of jewelry can also be the perfect way to add a finishing touch to any outfit or display your personal style. But how do you find the right finery for you? Our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of men's jewelry - and discover your ideal accessory (or two, or three).

Basic Rules for Wearing Men’s Jewelry

So you may be thinking, “Wait, there are rules for men’s jewelry? Don’t I just put it on?” Not so fast, mister. Wearing jewelry is much like choosing an outfit, a hairstyle, or how to trim your facial hair. It’s both a matter of taste and personal expression. And there are indeed rules to consider so your jewelry looks good and reflects you. Here are a few key things to remember before you put on any pieces.  

Keep It Simple

The first thing you should know about men's jewelry? Only certain guys (like rappers, rock stars, and the sartorially advanced) can pull off wearing a lot of it. A handful of rings and chains can be a lot on the average gent. So, for the rest of us, starting simple is often the best approach. A stylish watch (with leather or metal strap) and simple ring are great foundation pieces to introduce into regular rotation. Once you’ve got those on lock and feel comfortable, feel free to expand your jewelry repertoire. That could mean a necklace, an additional ring, or even a bracelet. Just don’t stack too many bracelets on your arm or you’ll start to look like you’re at a Taylor Swift concert. 

Match Metals

Gold and Silver might be the most common and obvious metals employed in jewelry, but it’s more nuanced than just opting for one or the other. There are actually quite a few different metals – and color tones – to choose from. Stainless Steel, Platinum, Silver, and Tungsten will all be cooler tones than can read either metallic or a dull gray. On the warmer side, Gold or Brass can look either yellow or orange. 

For a more cohesive look, you will always want to match your metals and tones. Mixing up say, silver and brass is a real faux pas, and will look unintentional. There is, however, one exception to the “matching metals” rule. Your wedding ring. Whatever finish your most important band happens to be, you can (and should) wear it regardless of your other jewelry.

Consider The Occasion

Much like you wouldn’t put on a suit to pick up takeout or show up in gym clothes to a party, most jewelry has a time and place for when it should be worn. Sure, some essential pieces can be worn all the time, but most jewelry is dictated by occasion. Depending on your job, you may want to tone down for the workday and stick to subtle pieces that won’t distract. On the weekends, you can certainly get a bit more expressive and pull out a bit of flash. And for formal occasions, well,  you can pull out all the stops. Don’t be afraid to style yourself with rings, a bracelet, tie clips, a watch, a necklace, and cufflinks. 

Different Types of Jewelry for Men – And Our Top Picks

Now let’s talk about the actual jewelry itself. You’ve got options for what you can wear around your neck, on your wrists, and placed on your fingers. From subtle to statement, chunky to slim, polished or matte, we’ve picked some standout necklaces, rings, bracelets, watches, and cufflinks, as well as the info you need to know before putting on - and to pull off -  your new accessories. 

Necklaces

The most popular and pleasing necklaces for fellas are, without a doubt, chains. This versatile piece is available in an array of sizes and styles to select from, including Cuban (flat interlocking links) snake (fluid-like links), rope (twisted links), and figaro (alternating sizes of links). A chunkier-style chain can work for some, but something more slender is probably a better fit for the majority of guys. (A delicate or thin chain is actually ideal for a slim or medium build.) And don’t forget - A necklace can be both a featured accessory when paired with an open shirt or be tucked under a tee or sweater for a more understated accent. 

Quince

Cuban Curb Chain Necklace

$129
$129
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Quince

We like

We don't like

Brilliant Earth

Zeke 22 In. Silver Curb Chain Necklace

$105
$105
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Brilliant Earth

We like

We don't like

Miansi

Otis Jasper Gold Vermeil Necklace

$165
$165
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Miansi

We like

We don't like

Vitaly

Notion

$75
$75
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Vitaly

We like

We don't like

Caitlyn Minimalist

Men's Snake Chain Necklace

$34.87
$34.87
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Caitlyn Minimalist

We like

We don't like

We Are All Smith

Gold Rope Chain And St. Christopher Necklace

$67
$67
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: We Are All Smith

We like

We don't like

Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Quince
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Brilliant Earth
Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Vitaly
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Caitlyn Minimalist
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
We Are All Smith

Rings

A wedding ring is often the one (and only) piece a man puts on his finger. But there are so many more options to explore besides that basic band. Stylish signets, bands with engraved texture, and unique shapes or stones can all bring a little extra something to your digits. Consider adding one or two other rings to your jewelry range, but keep them all coordinated in the same metal. And definitely don’t go overboard with bold rings on every finger to avoid looking like the Godfather.

Quince

Oblong Bezel Diamond Signet Ring

$79.90
$79.90
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Quince

We like

We don't like

Shinola

Tag Ring

$150
$150
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Shinola

We like

We don't like

Miansai

Bolt Ring

$145
$145
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Miansai

We like

We don't like

Jaxxon

Traditional Tungsten Band - Black

$69
$69
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Jaxxon

We like

We don't like

Caitlyn Minimalist

Tigers Eye Signet Ring

$31.50
$31.50
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Caitlyn Minimalist

We like

We don't like

Vitaly

Tilt Ring

$50
$50
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Vitaly

We like

We don't like

Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Shinola
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Miansai
Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Caitlyn Minimalist
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Vitaly
Shinola
$150
$150
Code:
Copy Icon
Miansai
$145
$145
Code:
Copy Icon
Caitlyn Minimalist
$31.50
$31.50
Code:
Copy Icon
Vitaly
$50
$50
Code:
Copy Icon

Bracelets

A bracelet offers many options for self expression - and more materials than just metal. Yes, you can go for a  classic chain, but feel free to explore cuffs and options in rope, woven textile, and leather. When it comes to wear, it’s fine to pair a slim bracelet on the same wrist as your watch, or just stick to a single standout piece. In general, two bracelets per wrist is probably the most you’ll want to put on, but slim bracelets can be stacked without feeling too summer camp.

Miansai

Orson Pull Bungee Rope Bracelet

$65
$65
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Miansai

We like

We don't like

Selva

Dean Bracelet

$125
$125
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Selva

We like

We don't like

Tanner Goods

Single Wrap Wristband - Cognac

$35
$35
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Tanner Goods

We like

We don't like

Kendra Scott

Figaro Chain Bracelet in 18k Gold Vermeil

$250
$250
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Kendra Scott

We like

We don't like

Studebaker Metals

Rotary Cuff

$58
$58
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Studebaker Metals

We like

We don't like

David Yurman

Box Chain Bracelet

$195
$195
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: David Yurman

We like

We don't like

Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Selva
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Tanner Goods
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Kendra Scott
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Studebaker Metals
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
David Yurman
Selva
$125
$125
Code:
Copy Icon
Studebaker Metals
$58
$58
Code:
Copy Icon
David Yurman
$195
$195
Code:
Copy Icon

Watches

A watch often serves as the jewelry entry point for many men, and at some point, you’ve probably worn one. Equal parts fashion and function, it’s the workhorse of men’s jewelry, and there’s a style for any and every occasion. There’s the casual weekend watch, the everyday staple for work, the sporty, digital version, or the dressy option. Just keep it proportionate to your body size and wrist. A large watch face and bulkier strap works for thicker wrists and a smaller face and slim band for thinner.

VAER

S5 Calendar Field Black - 40mm Quartz

$179
$179
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: VAER

We like

We don't like

Timex

Q Timex Chronograph 40mm Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch

$219
$219
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Timex

We like

We don't like

Miansai

M24 II White Tan Leather

$195
$195
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Miansai

We like

We don't like

Bulova

Sutton

$396
$396
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Bulova

We like

We don't like

Skagen

Signatur Three-Hand Silver Stainless Steel Mesh Watch

$145
$145
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Skagen

We like

We don't like

Cufflinks

Perhaps the most formal of all men’s jewelry, consider cufflinks that little accent that can make a stylish statement when paired with a dress shirt. If you’re new to cufflinks, you may want to start with a more simple style that’s versatile, like a round or square (that can also be monogrammed for a personal appeal).  For those looking for a bit more flourish, there are options in interesting shapes, unique stones, and detailed designs that will really make your sleeves stand out.

J.Crew

Black onyx sterling silver rounded cuff links

$88
$88
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: J.Crew

We like

We don't like

Skultuna

Skultuna Icon Cuff Link Model X - Gold plated

$75
$75
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Skultuna

We like

We don't like

Tie Bar

Loose Knots Gun Metal Cufflinks

$20
$20
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Tie Bar

We like

We don't like

Suit Supply

Gold Round Cufflinks

$119
$119
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Suit Supply

We like

We don't like

Shinola

Octagonal Cufflinks

$250
$250
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Shinola

We like

We don't like

Agmes

Sum Of Parts Cufflinks

$250
$250
Code:
Copy Icon
Credit: Agmes

We like

We don't like

Coupon:
Coupon:
Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Suit Supply
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Shinola
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Agmes

Looking for more jewelry advice and inspiration? Browse our jewelry edit and men’s fashion edit, and explore all our favorite fashion products.

Shop The Edit

Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Quince
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Brilliant Earth
Coupon:
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Vitaly
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
Caitlyn Minimalist
Coupon:
Shop Now
At
We Are All Smith

Additional Reading

No items found.