As the resurgent popularity of cufflinks enters its third decade of growth we see a return to demand for traditional handmade quality and precious metals and stones. This is supported by a handsome range of mass produced cufflinks. So there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. Nothing new; this form of decoration is not a recent innovation, cufflinks can be accurately traced back to as early as the 17th century, devised as an alternative to using ribbons or lace to link shirt cuffs. It coincides with a move away from silk and lace and culminated in Bea Brummell’s creation of a simple dark suit. They were reserved for aristocratic social groups until the industrial revolution realised the economic benefits of mass production, making jewellery items affordable for all classes. Various mechanisms were devised during the IR, the chain link being the first creation followed by T Bar and swivel end. Then came the more decorative wrap around, which have regained popularity status in recent years. One classic worth mentioning is by British Designer Ian Flaherty. He introduced a flat chain link and studded it with Swarovski Crystals resulting in a unique piece of decoration for men who dare to be different. The more economical ball end is rife amongst mid range cufflinks; it is also practical in the sense of producing masters and moulds. But they are not so easy to feed through cuffs, the best way is to insert before you put on the short, just narrow your hands when feeding through the sleeve ends. Common materials have remained constant with fluctuations according to economic conditions. For example; when the price of gold rises, gold jewellery sales will fall, like wise with silver, it’s true with all commodities. Conversely materials like Rhodium are not subject to such dramatic rise and fall, and offer great benefits, such as no maintenance, Rhodium does not tarnish like silver, pewter and gold. And as a case hardening will endure the rigors of everyday uses. Trends; cufflinks have become one of the essential accessory for men. Mirror of our history, cufflinks espouse centuries through various designs, from medi evil to art deco. The choices are endless, agates, tiger’s eye, cat’s eye glass, opals, and diamonds and so on. Jewellery is an ideal medium for designers to express their creativity without the confines of technical specifications. Daniel Swarovski developed a machine for cutting crystal. He worked day and night, nine years later (1892); made it possible to cut crystal for the first time and the perfection was complete. It coincided with the philosophy of the industrial revolution, to improve production with less man hours and at the same time increase the consistency of quality. Now his crystals have become a popular choice for jewellers all over the world. This is perhaps the greatest Austrian export. Designers; Like all things great, brand names have to uphold their status by keeping a very tight rein on quality and by constantly setting new trends and adhering to stylish good looks. Thus reverting to personalisation through extending a handmade signature to products, which makes it naturally easier for the buyer to relate to, and, there is always a great story behind handmade, because before the machine it was the only way. Fortunately the skills have not been lost, so now is a good time to propel the tradition into the future. Cufflink popularity peaked in the 60’s and seventies when American designers Swank were selling twelve million pairs of cufflinks a year. Priced accordingly at $2.50, every sales man owned at least one pair and they became a popular gift as a reward for performance., Now days Swank Incorporated sell around 250,00 pairs a year. Their major focus is sourcing accessories for corporate brands like Tommy Hilfiger. Thanks to new designers cufflinks are back on the catwalks.
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