What can be said about the image of a biker? Well, these bearded men love tattoos, leather jackets, beer, and of course, they are crazy about motorcycles. Another well-known fact about bikers is that they love jewelry. No passionate biker can do without silver rings, necklaces, or bracelets. Much has already been said about biker jewelry but let's clarify a bit.
How is it that bikers wear so much jewelry?
The image of the very first bikers was a bit different from what we know today. They didn't wear much jewelry (if any at all). They tended to put a few symbols on their clothes to communicate certain ideas. Since many members of the first biker club were former American soldiers, they had some military insignia as well as war trophies. One of the most popular trophies was enemy soldiers' medals (like the infamous Iron Cross). Bikers wore them to show their disdain for ongoing processes in society. Overall, military trophies became the first biker accessories.
Men's bead skull bracelets - Santa Muerte Paris
In the 1960s, Hollywood began producing a large number of films about bikers. In these films, they were portrayed as motorcycle criminals (which was true to some extent). These movie bikers wore wallet chains and huge rings (apparently, to create a more intimidating image). In fact, bikers liked the image given by the cinema and it was only a matter of time before they started wearing this jewelry.
Biker rings - Santa Muerte Paris
More than 50 years ago, bikers didn't have as much jewelry as we have today. Strictly speaking, the most common items at that time were men's watches and wedding rings. Bikers had to make their own rings or bracelets to match their style. Everything changed when bikers discovered Mexican rings.
Men's rosary Soto dark night by Santa Muerte
These were large, heavy, masculine, and cost about 5 dollars. Bikers liked that these pieces attracted attention. In a fistfight, they could replace brass knuckles, that's how solid and heavy these rings were. In addition to their impressive size, Mexican rings featured symbols like Aztec warriors, horseshoes, skulls, eagles, etc. Many of these symbols have remained for good in biker culture.
Today, there are many jewelry brands specializing in biker accessories. You won't have trouble finding, say, the skull bracelets or the rings of your dreams. Robust shapes, weight, and controversial symbolism are still highly appreciated by bikers. The only aspect that has changed is the color of the jewelry. While Mexican rings were yellow (because the alloy they were made of contained brass and bronze), modern bikers prefer white metals (mainly pewter and silver).
Men's necklace Santa by Santa Muerte
Besides rings, bikers are fond of thick metal necklaces, leather or steel bracelets, cool-looking earrings, practical and durable wallet chains, and badass belt buckles. Many accessory brands even offer biker-themed lighters and money clips for a complete biker look.