Jewelry has been used throughout centuries, to add to the beauty of a woman and elegance of a man, and it has always been ornamental, whatever metal it is made of.

Things are changing now. Jewelry now has various other uses apart from the obvious. This century sees the influx of jewelry with technology in it; call it wearable computers if you may. The mention conjures up images of something strapped to the wrist or to a belt.

Did you ever hear of jewelry with a USB drive in it, a hidden microphone in a ring, speakers in chains or even electric bulbs in earrings? Researchers across the world have begun to envision devices that can be embedded into items of jewelry that are worn every day.

This vision includes a PAN (Personal Area Network) of devices distributed all over the body in all sorts of jewelry items that include rings, watches, bracelets, earrings and necklaces. This futuristic look or should we call it the “Star Wars look,” will emerge sooner than later. (more…)