Ethnologists will tell you that jewelery is the oldest and most long-lasting work of art of the human race.  While some civilizations do not wear clothes, none are without jewelery.  The ancient Egyptians, for example, are well-known for their wealth of jewelery which had a strong religious character at that time.  During the Middle Ages, families invested heavily in jewelery, as it served as a financial investment and changed ownership quickly just like currency does today.  Near the end of the Middle Ages, men's jewelery became more luxurious and included such pieces as expensive pendants and brooches.  In the 19th century, men no longer wore extravagant jewelery since society only tolerated signet rings and watch chains.  Today, men wear livelier and a wider range of accessories, such as cufflinks made of precious metals (gold, silver, etc.) or bright colors.  However, men's accessories should still be worn as a discerning understatement -- in other words, less is more.