Style

The new rules of men’s jewellery

We help you sift through the diamanté studs and novelty necklaces to find a few timeless winners

Photography: Pip Bourdillon

Styling: Holly Macnaghten

The subject of men’s jewellery has long been a contentious one – but, thanks to the envelope-pushing, expressive spirit of individuals such as Harry Styles and Alessandro Michele, the landscape is changing and minds are broadening. No longer does a chain or statement ring consign you to a hearty dose of mockery, as many in this ever-changing world are waking up to the power that jewellery possesses when wanting to make an effective, stylish and personal statement.

Ben Radcliffe in the winter issue of Gentleman's Journal. All rings by De Beers.

However, it is still true that there are few style faux pas worse than an item of jewellery that misses the mark. From chunky, garish necklaces to that ill-judged beaded bangle that seemed like a great idea in Bali, there’s a fine line between acceptable accessories and those that truly aren’t.

So, we’re here to help you sift through the diamanté studs and novelty necklaces in order to find the pieces you can wear with confidence, season after season. And, perhaps the place to start is with a simple-appearing bangle, given that the sphere of men’s bracelets is a tricky one to navigate. There are the chunky, the colourful and the overly shined creations, most of which should be avoided at all costs. Among them, however, you can find a glint of hope – something easygoing and understated, such as this De Beers RVL Bangle, which offers a subtle enhancement to any outfit thanks to its elegant ripple effect and rose-gold makeup.

For something that strikes a more relaxed tone, consider a pared-back cord bracelet, which can take you seamlessly from day to night – this piece, here, is so light you won’t even remember that you’re wearing it, and will feel like a smooth transition into jewellery for those who've only ever sported a watch on their wrist. (Moreover, its casual slant is elevated by a fastening in 18k white-gold – so, it’s smart enough to wear with tailoring.)

Then, we move onto rings. Of course, you can consider a signet option – something that’s less a piece of jewellery and more a message – but, once again, we’d opt for something with quiet honesty. We’re rather fond of these classic rings – also by De Beers; available in white-gold and yellow-gold; and showcased on Ben Radcliffe (pictured throughout this piece, and who’s stacked the designs) in our recent print issue – not only for their elegant silhouette, but also for the fact they feature a hidden diamond on the inner, providing the wearer with the constant touch of a precious gemstone.

If, however, you’re after a more colourful, embellished item – menswear is, of course, all about expressing yourself – we’d nudge you towards this Talisman Medal in yellow-gold, which offsets polished diamonds with rough ones, all of which are scattered on the face as if they were a constellation. With this being a statement accessory, we say just let it hang nonchalantly under an open-collar shirt, only to see the real light of day beside the pool on holiday, when the sunshine and relaxed spirit will make it seem suave rather than pretentious.