Will jewellery join a whole range of other ‘wearables’ and go increasingly ‘smart’ in 2015? That’s the question both tech gurus and fashion designers are asking after Intel unveiled Curie, a button-sized hardware module, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2015) at Las Vegas on January 6, 2015.

During the presentation the Intel team said it can be used for a range of wearable devices like “rings, bags, bracelets, pendants, fitness trackers to even buttons.”Mike Bell, VP of Intel's New Devices Group said that many companies “that have historically never used silicon before" may now begin to develop smart wearables.

A prototype of Curie was displayed at the show. The actual product will only be ready to be shipped to customers in the second half of this year.

Initial reactions from the tech world indicate that Curie will provide a big leap forward to the world of wearable technology as it has many advanced features.

Smart jewellery is still a nascent product category with some early initiatives having been well received.

Ringly, a smart gadget housed in a fashion ring uses large coloured gemstones set in a matte gold band made from a bronze-brass alloy that is plated with three microns of 18k gold.

Last November Intel launched MICA (My Intelligent Communication Accessory), a gold-coated smart bracelet for women co-designed with New York fashion house Opening Ceremony. It is finished with 18k gold and features coloured gemstones. The company describes it as “a feminine fashion accessory with communications capabilities”.

There is also Cuff, Fashion-savvy wearable jewellery startup, that has tied up with Richline, a large US jewellery manufacturer create necklaces, bracelets, earrings and other fine jewellery items that will retail through major chains. The smart jewellery is powered by a special CuffLinc technology.

Misfit Wearableshas also partnered with Swarovski for a luxury version of the Misfit Shine activity tracker, called Swarovski Shine. The face of the device is made from Swarovski crystal.