When you think of fashion jewelry you have to think of women. By contrast, men represent only a small market for fashion jewelry and comprise a minute amount of the wearers of it. On the other hand, women clearly predominate in this world. For women such jewelry has become an indispensable aid in their wardrobe and an essential fashion accessory. The glittering appeal of this type of jewelry undoubtedly lies in its abil8ty to accentuate and add some flash to a woman’s wardrobe. For the well-dressed woman fashion jewelry is not just a mere add-on. It comes to embellish her clothes, her look and her very personality. The glittering façade of this jewelry lends itself perfectly to a contemporary glamorous look, appearing confidently modern while nodding towards the distant past with a smile.

Like all the world of fashion, the world of fashion jewelry is always held captive to trends. As with all trends, those in this field tend to follow a cyclical pattern. The trend of today will not last; its turn to be replaced will come. But what falls out of fashion may one day spontaneously remerge, gifted with some retro appeal. But some classic jewelry never fades from fashion. Jewels from such precious stones such as diamonds and pearls, or gold and platinum are certain to remain perennially popular with women for the foreseeable future. However, fashion jewelry is its own distinct type-its glittering surface and vibrant colors do so much to give a woman innumerable fashion options.

There are many reasons behind women loving to wear fashion jewelry, firstly it is not much expensive as compared to the original ones, and secondly one gets the huge variety to match them with various outfits. Moreover, they also add a variety and fashion to your outfit. Adoring themselves with sparkling earrings and bracelets helps a woman express confidence in her feminine allure and mystery. When you look at the world of fashion jewelry you will be astounded by the seemingly infinite array of sizes, shapes. colors and designs. Earrings run the gamut from huge pendulous hoops to tiny ear studs that you have to be real close to even detect. Just the same as earrings, bracelets are a dazzling swirl of shape, sizes designs and textures. The bottom line in fashion jewelry is that there will never be a shortage of variety and beauty available for a woman to choose from.

Masonic jewelry is worn as a sign of membership of the brotherhood or passed down as family heirlooms. Here is a guide to this unique and interesting tradition.

The Brotherhood

The Freemasons have the longest history of any organization in the world. The first Grand Lodge was formed in 1717 in London, but there was loose organization and use of terms and symbols centuries before that. Stonemasons were the founding fathers.

Today, it is not necessary to be an actual mason to be a member as the principles of the brotherhood are self-improvement, social works and self-awareness. They were behind the creation of public schools in Europe and America.

In the late 19th century and early 20th century, they also took it upon themselves to make sure orphans, the elderly and widows were taken care of when the system provided no protection for them. There are a lot of conspiracy theories, movies and books surrounding the mystery of the Masons, but there is no real secret to this philanthropic and educated organization.

Types of jewelry

To designate membership in a Masonic lodge, there are a variety of Masonic jewelry pieces that a member can wear. The traditional piece is the signet ring, but there are other options as well. For the man who already owns a Lodge ring, other gift options are cuff links, tie pins, pocket watches and even pendants. These can all bear the same the emblems as the rings.

The Symbols

Symbols in freemasonry are important and they designate the degree of the member, the lodge and what the member wants to say about his membership. The most common symbols are the square and compass which represent the cornerstone of freemasonry.

In the center of these tools is the letter “G”, which stands for geometry, a principle of freemasonry, and for God, the original builder. Some other tools of the trade found in Masonic jewelry are the trowel, the plumb level and columns. There are many other symbols to choose from when designing different pieces.

Proper wear

Only members should wear membership jewelry, but there are cases where antique Masonic jewelry is passed down as family heirlooms. As far as how to wear the rings, there are no rules on the proper way. Some men like to wear the emblems facing them but others like to wear them facing out for others to see. Married men typically wear their rings on the right hand ring finger. Some men choose to wear their ring on the pinkie finger. So, really it is all about personal preference and comfort on how to wear the pieces.

How to clean it

In gold or silver, Masonic jewelry can be very simple or quite ornate. The more intricate the design, the dirtier it can get. Gold pieces can be soaked in warm soapy water and scrubbed with a soft brush. If there are enameled or synthetic colored parts, don’t soak the piece, but gently scrub with a soft soapy brush. Regularly polish with a soft cloth. For sterling silver pieces, only use cleaners designed for silver cleaning. These products come in wipes, cloths and creams.

There are millions of freemasons across the world and a gift of men’s Masonic jewelry is a great way to recognize his contribution to society and to honor his pride and dedication to his brotherhood.