Bold is likely one of the first words that come to mind upon seeing designs made by New York brand Rockford Collection, whose offerings are heavy on men’s jewelry.
“We have only one aim: Make the biggest, baddest pieces in mad combinations that we think look great,” Rockford says on its website, and at that, it has succeeded. The tough, heavy metal look associated with the men’s jewelry category is certainly there, but these jewels go way beyond traditional styles made for men. There are pieces that anyone, regardless of gender, might love to wear, with features that set them apart from other jewelry in the men’s or gender-neutral arena.
We wanted to get more detail on the world that is Rockford and men’s jewelry, so we talked with brand founder and designer Aleksander Chuly.
Men’s jewelry has grabbed the spotlight in just a few years. How have you seen demand change on your end?
It’s true that over the past few years we’ve witnessed a significant shift in demand and perception regarding men’s jewelry. At Rockford Collection, we’ve been at the forefront of this change.
Men are increasingly looking for jewelry that not only reflects their unique style but also stands the test of time. This has pushed us to maintain our dedication to using the finest materials and traditional handcrafting techniques, ensuring that our jewelry is both visually striking and enduring.
Moreover, social media and celebrity influences have played a significant role in changing the perception of men’s jewelry. High-profile figures and fashion influencers have been showcasing bold jewelry choices, making it more socially acceptable and even celebrated. This has, in turn, encouraged more men to explore and embrace a broader range of jewelry options.
In summary, the demand for men’s jewelry has seen a remarkable transformation, with men becoming more adventurous and discerning in their choices.
Has the increase in gender-neutral looks affected your designs in any way?
The rise of genderless jewelry has indeed had an impact on our offerings at Rockford Collection. We’ve been attuned to the changing landscape of the jewelry industry, and we recognize the importance of inclusivity and versatility in our designs.
In response to the demand for genderless jewelry, we have consciously worked on creating pieces that are not limited by traditional gender boundaries. This means that some of our designs are intentionally crafted to be versatile, suitable for individuals of any gender who appreciate bold, high-quality jewelry. We’ve expanded our collections to include a wider range of sizes and styles that can be worn by anyone, regardless of their gender identity.
Your pieces are large and chunky—qualities often associated with men’s jewelry. Why do you think that’s the case?
Rockford Collection has always been about redefining traditional jewelry norms and creating pieces that break away from the status quo. The big, chunky, and bold qualities of our jewelry are a deliberate choice because we believe that these attributes are not confined to a specific gender or style. They are symbols of strength, individuality, and self-expression, qualities that transcend gender boundaries.
Which metal color is currently selling the best for you?
In the jewelry industry as a whole, yellow gold has been a popular choice. However, I’d like to highlight that individual preferences can vary, and our customers have diverse tastes. We offer a range of metal colors, including yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, to cater to this diversity.
Are more men self-purchasing jewelry or receiving it as gifts?
I’ve observed a growing trend of men self-purchasing jewelry. While gifting remains a significant part of the jewelry market, many men are now taking the initiative to buy jewelry for themselves. This shift is a testament to the changing perception of men’s jewelry as a means of self-expression and personal style. Of course, gifting is still a common practice, especially for special occasions.
What kind of men’s jewelry do you think retailers should have in stock this holiday season?
Retailers should have a mix of classic pieces, bold statement jewelry, personalized options, mixed metals, minimalist designs, gemstone accents, cufflinks, and branded collections to cater to various customer preferences during the holiday season.
Top: La Paz ring in 18k yellow and white gold with 5 cts. t.w. sapphires and 0.75 ct. t.w. diamonds, $17,310; Rockford Collection
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