Tarma Designs Takes Away "Taboo" of Men's Jewelry

PETALUMA, CA (February 14, 2008) – Some things in life go hand in hand: women and shopping; kids and dirt; men and – jewelry? Ok, so maybe the majority of the male species hasn’t yet become married to the idea of accessorizing, but jewelry for men is a trend that’s currently on the rise.

From Lance Armstrong’s Live Strong bracelets to David Beckham’s big-time bling, today’s modern man has become less timid about expressing his personality and passions through accessories, thus giving rise to more male-specific designs from companies like Tarma Designs, creators of outdoor-inspired, casual jewelry made from recycled stainless steel.

According to a recent article in National Jeweler, men’s jewelry, long relegated to a distant showcase and a small part of the average jeweler’s inventory, is finally getting not only respect, but retail real estate.

“In general, the average guy’s first reaction to wearing jewelry is either a laugh or expletives,” says Sky George, the male half of the co-owned Tarma Designs. “But men are slowly coming around, realizing that certain materials and designs create a look that’s far from feminine and are a great tool for self-expression.”

The Petaluma, CA-based company has recently added several designs that speak to men, ranging from sandblasted pendants and wristbands to sporty bottle openers – many of which play to athletic passions, such as running, biking or hiking.

To be expected, the accessories that men fancy are quite different than those coveted by the fairer sex. According to the same National Jeweler article, popular jewelry designs for men tend to utilize alternative metals such as stainless steel or tungsten and pendant necklaces and thicker bracelets are also preferred styles of note.

Tarma can attest to this trend, as its recently introduced Mountain Series, offering the artistic horizon lines of peak favorites like Half Dome and Mt. Whitney on slate Re-Plyâ„¢ recycled polyester cord pendants, has already been met with much acclaim by men. All of the company’s sustainable shapes can accompany wearers on outdoor adventures, as the recycled stainless steel from which they’re made is lightweight, strong and will never tarnish.

“The materials we use enable our pieces to be worn during active pursuits, which is certainly a draw for men,” explains George. “I think the men who wear Tarma consider their accessories less a display of fashion or status and more as a personal talisman representing the activities they enjoy. We’re excited to be a part of this new and developing market.”

Tarma Designs offers jewelry for men and women in several designs and styles. Prices range from $19.98 to $31.98.

Tarma Designs blends sustainable, high-quality materials, distinct design elements and the spirit of adventure and exploration to create its line of fashionable and environmentally conscious personal art. The Active line brings a love of the outdoors to life for men and women with symbols inspired by active adventures immortalized in recycled stainless steel pendants, earrings, wristbands and bottle openers. The Artisan line celebrates travel, discovery and culture with custom, handcrafted pieces created by skilled artisans in South America. For more information, visit www.tarmadesigns.com. Editorial media may contact On the Horizon Communications at (805) 773-1000 or jordan@thepressroom.com for additional information, images or product samples.