Divine cufflinks at Fairfax & Roberts, Sydney
The fight over the popularising of cufflinks is akin to who invented the Pavlova? Australia or New Zealand. (Of course it was Australia BTW.) But just who popularised the cufflink? Was it King Charles II in the 17th century or was it during King Louis XIV’s reign also in the 17th century? Both were stylish men but my money is on Louis.
The stitched button hole was developed in the 17th century and French tailors put two ornamental buttons attached by a chain known as sleeve buttons or boutons de manchettes. The jewellers got in on the act and began to create these in silver and gold with semi precious gems or stamped designs.
Gold and silver cufflinks peaked in the 19th century
Come the 18th century and the cufflinks had taken on popularity with most aristocrats and royals. In 1876 George Krementz revolutionised cuff links in the industrial revolution using a manufacturing process for bullets. Gold and silver cufflinks peaked with intricate designs and carrying gemstones.
In the 1900s cufflinks started to sport enamel. By the end of the 20th century, shirts were being produced with buttons on the cuff but when the French double cuff made its way to the UK, Cufflinks resurged.
The most elegant of cufflinks at Fairfax & Roberts
Today, you can purchase the most elegant of cufflinks at the most elegant of stores, Fairfax & Roberts.
