COMMENT: Why are diamonds a man’s best friend, too?

The word ‘diamond’ comes from the ancient Greek adámis which means ‘unbreakable’. Known to be one of the hardest substances on earth, diamonds date back billions of years.

Diamonds have been treasured throughout history, with a rise in the 19th and 20th Centuries. This increase is due to technological advances, a wider range of diamonds becoming available, and a concentrated marketing campaign by a well-known American jeweller promoting diamonds for engagement rings.

Diamonds have been traditionally known as a girl’s best friend, and are often given to symbolise love and special occasions, such as for an engagement, wedding or anniversary.

In the last 15 years, H&T Pawnbrokers have seen an increase in the usage of diamonds in men’s jewellery. These typically include diamond wedding bands, earrings and chunky bracelets studded with diamonds.

This could be due to influences from popular culture. In the ‘90s, hip hop music and its artists became well known. We often see them on television and in videos and photos wearing diamond earrings, medallions and watches to show their wealth and success, often referred to as ‘bling’ or ‘ice’. Some rappers wear diamond eye patches, and many have even started adorning their own teeth in diamonds, referred to as ‘grillz’.

One American rapper recently took part in the ALS Ice Bucket challenge using his diamond encrusted ‘ice’ jewellery in place of ice water. Hip hop artists can be seen as influential, and icons which young men to aspire to. They may well start off with cubic zirconia, but diamonds are what they will be looking for.

However, this trend is not just relating to young men and pop culture, it’s clearly a statement many men emulate. H&T pawn, purchase and sell a range of men’s and women’s jewellery and watches. One of the top brand watches we deal with, Rolex, has a series of diamond-set bezel options created specifically for gents.

H&T is the UK’s leading pawnbroking company established in 1897 in London with over 185 stores throughout the UK. www.handtpawnbrokers.co.uk