The Ultimate Fighting Championship UFC scene has become a significant style and culture maker.

Jewelry designers for the retail markets are emulating many of the styles of the tribal pendants and fight necklace worn by UFC fighters, and more and more young consumers are combing variations of these accessories with their other trends in fashion.

They come in all shapes, sizes and materials, too, from metal and glass, to ceramic, leather and color pendants.  Women as well as men are wearing them as both a fashion statement, and, in some cases, as a mark of cultural identity, such as the brave one; a thinker; a promoter of peace and friendship; the realist; the mischievous prankster.

Much like wearable tattoos, the fight symbol recognizes a chosen state of mind; spirit; or warrior goal that is giving younger consumers a deeper reason to shop and, for youths with Latin and American Indian decent, a way to connect to their cultural roots, express a family trait or even honor their ancestors.

It’s simply become “cool” to be marked.  Whether it’s ink or leather, ceramic or titanium, having your cultural and spiritual predilections displayed on your arm, across the small of your back, or dangling from a chain around your neck, is becoming an acceptable and artful expression of self.

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http://www.capitalco.com/exploring-the-appalachian-trail-this-summer/real-estate/2009/03/