Before the 1960s, it was common for people to follow traditional gender roles. Some work opportunities were considered ideal for men, while other options were limited to women. Gender stereotypes also affected the way people socialized and how they dressed.
Over the last 60 years, views about gender roles have changed. Western society has begun to acknowledge multiple genders. Today, men, women, and individuals who identify as agender or genderfluid can adopt their own style when choosing fashion accessories, such as jewelry. Although some valuable trinkets may feature what are considered to be masculine or feminine characteristics, there’s a range of jewelry suitable for people of all genders. Consider the jewelry types and variables explored here when shopping for yourself or others.
Necklaces
Are you choosing a women’s necklace? Whether you’re shopping for your mother, partner, or daughter, choosing a necklace for her involves choosing from multiple necklace styles. You might choose a diamond necklace as an anniversary gift for your partner or give your daughter a heart necklace when she’s leaving for college. You can also choose a multi-strand necklace, a pendant necklace, a stretch necklace, or a chain necklace. When you’re choosing a women’s necklace, you might consider her height and neck size. Typically, shorter women favor choker, princess, or short matinee necklaces no more than 20 inches in length, while taller women can wear longer or shorter necklaces.
Gemstone necklaces are ideal birthday presents and can be suitable for any gender. Someone born in January may opt for a necklace with a garnet, while someone born in September may opt for a sapphire.
Rings
It’s common for couples to exchange rings when they exchange vows. Rings are considered a symbol of eternal love. Many women still wear engagement rings on the fourth finger on their left hand after their partner proposes marriage. A wedding band’s placed on the same finger during the marriage ceremony. Male, agender, and genderfluid individuals may also wear an engagement ring and wedding band on their ring fingers.
People of all genders wear rings. Rings for men tend to be thicker than women’s rings. Men’s rings are also wider. People of all genders may opt for thicker rings today, mainly if they engage in manual labor. Thinner rings are more likely to break, making them suitable for people who have academic jobs or who’re shopping for a ring to wear for special occasions.
Bracelets
Bracelets are bands placed around a person’s wrist or ankle. Wearing bracelets has been a popular custom in some societies for thousands of years. Ancient bracelets were made from shells and grasses. When precious metals were discovered, people began wearing bracelets made from bronze or copper. Today, bracelets can be made from various materials, including fabric, plants, gold, or silver.
Earrings
Earrings are worn on a person’s ears. People may have pierced ears or wear earrings that clip to their ears without passing through the lobes. Like bracelets, earrings were created thousands of years ago. Today, people wear various types of earrings, including studs, hoops, and dangling earrings. Some earrings feature gemstones, while other earrings are made from precious metals or wood.
Color
Color’s a consideration for many people when choosing necklaces, rings, bracelets, or earrings. Perhaps you’re allergic to sterling silver but prefer the look of silver over yellow gold. You could opt for a white gold band or necklace to get your preferred color without triggering an allergic reaction. Adding gemstones is another way to add color to necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings.
Materials
It’s common to consider the type of material used to construct a ring, gold necklace, or bracelet. Precious metals are durable, making them a popular option when purchasing rings. People with metal allergies may opt for necklaces or bracelets made from fabric, plants, or plastic.
Jewelry isn’t only for women. People of all genders may appreciate and enjoy wearing various types of jewelry, including necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. Factors that may influence your choices when selecting jewelry include color and materials.