Reuters just published a report that men's jewelry sales are almost doubled from 2004 to 2006 to reach $6 billion! And it's no wonder when you see great contemporary men's jewelry like the elegant, literally cutting-edge cuff bracelets in steel designed by David Feldman, above.

No stranger to the jewelry scene, David is a partner in the NYC jewelry-supply giant Metalliferous. This is his first men's line, crafted in a most unusual medium, Damascus Steel, which usually appears in sword and knife-making. When I heard this, I instantly thought Renaissance Fair and SOC! But used in these sleek, avant-garde cuffs, the steel becomes less Braveheart and more Blade Runner.

Damascus Steel is characterized by a unique patterned surface, often appearing with a wood grain or waves. As David explains, it's created by a welding together a few hundred layers of hard and soft steel and then etching it in acid. The "pinstripe" cuff at top is created by simple pattern welding, while the more complex woodgrain pattern at bottom is created by welding alloys, twisting the sheets, folding them, cutting them, re-welding them...phew. You get the idea. These beautiful pieces are crafted by renowned knifemaker Bertie Reitveldt, who reclaims metals for these cuffs the production of his incredible knives.

Here's a couple more to whet your appetite...OK, bad pun!!

Despite the weighty look, these cuffs are easy to wear...and surprisingly comfortable. (One doesn't usually think of steel as a comfortable metal!). David dresses up some pieces with inset diamonds or 14K gold ends for a more refined look, but I think as-is is pretty darn good. The cuffs cost between $200-500, depending on width and complexity of design. They can be purchased at Fassbinder at 39 8th Ave. in New York City, or through David himself - email him at dfl@compuserve.com.