1200s
Strings pins or belts were used rather than buttons to fasten clothing. It was not until fitted garments became popular in the 13th century that buttons where used as fasteners.

1600s
In the 17th century the decorative lacy cuff of the Renaissance began to give way to more practical styles. At first noblemen began using ribbons to tie their cuffs and the elegance of them was considered a status symbol. By the late 17th century ribbons were replaced by jeweled buttons which were called Sleeve Buttons. These were much more simple than lace and much more visually interesting than ribbons and became very popular very quickly.

1700s
By the time of King George (1738-1820) these buttons had become much more ornate. one favourite style was to create miniature paintings on the underside of a piece of glass or quartz. It was still a bauble of the elite classes however, and they were quite expensive to produce due to the material costs involved. This like so many facets of European society changed rapidly with the coming Industrial Revolution.

1800s
At the beginning of the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901) and towards the end of Britains Industrial Revolution the middle class adopted cuff links. Unable to afford gems they turned to replicas of the real thing. Rhinestones and pastes were used as fake diamonds, pinchbeck a copper and zinc alloy substituted for gold and cut steel marcasite were used for silver. a rose or flat cut was favoured by late Georgian and Victorian jewelers.

1840
The French cuff or double cuff shirt sleeve become a popular fashion accessory. The historical stimulus for the elegant touch in mens fashion was the publication of Alexander Dumas The Three Muskateers. Dumas detailed description of the turned-back sleeves of the men guarding King Louis Xlll inspired European designers to modify the single cuff link-holed shirt which had been a fashion main stay in England.

1882
In 1882 George Krementz invented a machine that was based on a Civil War cartridge shell. It would mass produce one-piece buttons and cuff links very cheaply, which further enabled everyone to enjoy what was once the exclusive domain of the wealthy and privileged.

1900s
Although the growing middle class liked enameled cuff links during the early Victorian period, it was during the Art Deco years that enamels reached their popularity. Skilled craftmen such as Faberge had perfected the art of using enamels by the end of the 19th century which he then mass produced during the early period of the 20th century. The Faberage enameled cufflinks are said to have a gem-like brilliance and are highly sought after in auction houses throughout the world. Other leading cuff link designers like Cartier and Tiffanys also began produce cuff links at the turn of the 20th century and where heavily influenced by the Art Nouveau - Art Deco, Cubism period.

1924
In 1924, Mr Boyer, of the Boyer company, created fastener system made up of a tilting stick between a double stem fixed to the base. Nowadays, this system still remains the most common fastener used.

1970s
In the Seventies, shirts with built-in buttons replace cuff links. Fortunately, the haute couture of famous names kept the style of wearing cuff links which continued to influence many people and kept the tradition alive.

1987
In 1987 a pair of cuff links once belonging to Edward, who was in line for the throne of England, sold at auction for $440,000. They were engraved with the initials E and W.

1990s
The French cuff shirt make a dramatic come back and cuff links become a main stream fashion accessory spanning across all ages. Young people rediscover this accessory. Paul Smith & Gucci brands start to expand and increase their new cuff link ranges. A new generation of cuff links was born. Cuff links, once viewed as a formal jewel becomes an essential accessory for both men and women wanting express their individuality with syle.

2000+
Today cuff links are worn all over the world by men and women of discriminating taste and style. Whether it’s a classic Sterling Silver and Lapis design, cuff links are something that can be worn and appreciated by anyone that wants to look their best.