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context: lacquerwork > objects > inro > fashion
Men/Women
Inro had been widespread from around 1600 onwards, but during the 18th Century they became far more a fashion item, and were often put to no practical use. Jewellery never caught on in Japan, and these were about as close an equivalent as existed, at least for men (for women, see combs).
There are various theories for why women didn't much wear inro - the seal origins were less applicable, but the main reason may be that their much wider sashes made hanging items less practical. In any case, some claim that women didn't wear them at all, others that they wore them only occasionally.
Wealthy men would own lots, picking the apt inro for the occasion or to go with the rest of his clothing. They would collect them, and there are specially made (lacquered, of course) storage boxes and display stands - there is every sign that some were never worn.