The appearance of jewelry has changed dramatically over the centuries, but the fact that men and women have sought beautiful things to adorn themselves hasn't. From centuries ago, master craftsmen have woven precious stones and beautiful metals into designs fit for kings and queens.

Expanding technology over the past couple of centuries has wrought some important changes. Most notably, jewelry has become more intricate and elaborate. Custom designs are highly prized as more of the jewelry manufacturing is done by machine.

Materials have also changed. Instead of pure gold which is not always durable, chains and other jewelry are often made of tougher materials and plated with gold. New materials have also emerged, including titanium - one of the hottest new jewelry trends on the market.

Titanium comes in several colors, is very durable and - most importantly - is considered extremely fashionable.

Fashion trends are the most important thing to shape the jewelry industry. From one decade to another, the trends have changed. Often, jewelry trends reflect the ideas, passions and goals of the times. Who can forget the terrific jewelry of the 1960s and 1970s? The