The origin of vintage and antique cufflinks can be traced back to the 17th century when ornate buttons and discs connected by a chain were used to secure shirt cuffs. These cufflinks replaced ribbons, ties...
...and string which had been used previously. However, it wasn't until the late Victorian and early Edwardian periods that antique cufflinks flourished. Often themed around popular hobbies, antique cufflinks appeared with enamelled details depicting game birds, diamond set foxes and fish, amongst others.
As the 20th century dawned and the use of platinum became more commonplace, antique cufflinks became even more eye-catching. Craftsmen revelled in the endless possibilities of designs now open to them, as antique and vintage gold cufflinks took a step back. Gemstones featured heavily, sometimes resulting in the entire face of the vintage cufflink being set with faceted or cabochon gemstones either set alone or in intricate designs.
The Art Deco period saw materials such as mother of pearl or onyx used, often in combination with diamonds, creating monochrome, geometric designs which reflected this new age of design.
Many of the large jewellery houses expanded on this theme to create entire dress sets which gentlemen could use to adorn their formal attire. These sets often include buttons and collar studs as well as matching vintage cufflinks, all beautifully presented in a fitted case. Buttons were a favourite type of adornment since the 17th century. They saw a resurgence in the 1920s and 1930s as dress sets became necessary for any well attired gentlemen.
At Berganza we are lucky to have many beautiful pairs of vintage and antique cufflinks and dress sets available. There is no better way to complete your dinner apparel than with an antique or vintage dress set.
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Cufflinks are an accessory used to fasten together the cuffs of shirts, as an alternative to buttons. Cufflinks can be worn by people in many professions on a daily basis. They are also popular for formal events.
Cufflinks are worn on the bottom of a shirt sleeve, by placing the cufflink through both holes in the cuff of the shirt, making sure that the decorative element of the cufflink is facing away from the body.
Cufflinks are considered to be a formal accessory, although are often worn by many people for work as part of their business attire. They are popular for occasions where formal dress is worn, such as weddings.
You can buy many shirts with buttons on the cuff, meaning vintage cufflinks are not required. When wearing a double cuffed shirt, which can also be known as a French cuff shirt, cufflinks will be required.
If you have solid gold vintage cufflinks, then you can clean them using a combination of warm water and mild soap. Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt or grime. For cufflinks with gemstones, you can wipe them gently with a soft cloth.
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