Jewelry is something that everybody loves to wear because it makes them feel special, or because it fulfils a need they have to advertise their wealth and status. But there is something for everybody and all budgets these days, as the technology to produce man-made gemstones such as cubic zirconia improves; increasingly, it is only by looking very closely at a clear CZ that it will become apparent that it is not actually a diamond!

Although many types of jewelry are made for women and girls, occasionally an item will cross over as fashions change. Earrings were almost exclusively a female jewelry item during the first half of the twentieth century. After the punk rock fashion revolution in the 70s, the crude self-made jewelry eventually became more refined, and mens earrings hit mainstream fashion again.

Not every earring style will fit for a man though; it would be wise not to opt for giant hoop earrings unless you want to look like a pirate, or a 70s disco diva! Not cool. Also to be avoided would be anything too showy, like chandelier earrings or other types of dangler. But this still gives options for the men; and let’s be clear, the girls can wear anything they feel like wearing!

To tone things down and achieve a more “bad boy” image with earrings, men should be looking at simple studs, or perhaps the smaller hoop earrings. Take a look at what the male celebs are wearing, especially in the music scene. One of the more recent styles to appear is the diamond stud earring for men, a sparkling piece of bling worn by British soccer star David Beckham, and the American rapper 50 Cent.

The mens hoop earrings are smaller than the womens (although ladies can wear whatever size); they may be worn several at a time in the same ear, and often are not obviously precious metal; you will find black huggie hoop earrings made from stainless steel, for example.

Ultimately it is up to you, the individual, to decide which style of earring fits your image, and the occasion. And for men, that does mean – sometimes – the best style is not to wear one at all, like at job interviews. Maybe fashion hasn’t quite changed that much yet!