“discover amazing facts & tips on what you always...

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“Discover Amazing Facts & Tips On What You Always Wanted To Know

About Cufflinks!”

Vol.1 Compiled by Adwin Ang

Contents

Preface 3 About the Authors 4 Chapter 1 Cuff Links & You Andy Gilchrist 6 Chapter 2 Link Up With Cuff Links Eugene R. Klompus 12 Chapter 3 Silver Cufflinks Nick Ledingham 20 Chapter 4 Feng Shui Cufflinks Adwin Ang 24 Chapter 5 [Your article contribution goes here] 27 Showcase 28

• Cufflinks Designers Resources 29 Articles Contribution 31 Disclaimer 32

of 32 COMPLETE CUFFLINKS GUIDE VOL. 1

Preface The ‘Complete Cufflinks Guide’ is basically complied specially for anyone who is interested to know more on the topic of cufflinks. Whether you own a pair of cufflinks or intend to gain more knowledge or insight before purchasing your first pair of cufflinks, this is a guide for you.

Now, coming back to the facts about what do I know about cufflinks. I am sure you must be thinking I am an experts or some cufflinks crazy collector. The truth is that I am not. No, I am not an expert in the field of cufflinks nor have collected hundreds of pairs of cufflinks.

So how am I able to write this book for you? Well, if you read the first sentence again I did say “complied”. This is not an ordinary e-book with the intention to sell to my reader but to pass on the knowledge which I have gathered from the experts in this area. What I would like to show you is that anyone can come up with an electronic book on any topic which you are interested in. Be it your hobbies or something you are passionate about. I am sure if you are a cufflinks collector, you might find the information on cufflinks is so little and the number on books written for cufflinks are either some years back or does not cover a wide range of topics on cufflinks. Well, it is exceptionally true in my country. Finally, my intention is to contact as much experts in this area to share their knowledge to us and yes, all in one e-book. By now, I am sure you might notice this is a Volume 1 e-book. I will add in more topics to come in the coming months. Till then enjoy the knowledge shared by our experts and pass this little less known knowledge around.

Adwin Ang, co-authoring with the experts Unique Cufflink Resource

cuff link or cuff·link (kflngk) n. A fastening for a shirt cuff, usually consisting of two buttons or button like parts connected with a chain or shank that passes through two slits in the cuff.


http://www.adwinang.com/

About the Authors Andy Gilchrist is a clothing expert on men’s clothing. He has written for ModernMan.com, AMansLife.com, Men’s Health, Greg Norman’s website Shark.com and his articles were published in Money and GQ Magazines. In addition, one of his travel photographs was published by the Los Angeles Times. In addition, he has written an Encyclopedia software on CD-Rom titled “The Encyclopedia of Men's Clothes” which provides insight on how you should dress appropriately. Andy also runs an online website, AskAndyAboutClothes.com with in mind devoted to what to wear, how to properly wear it, and the history of why we wear what we do. His fashion forum is well received and contains highly active members. Eugene R. Klompus is well known international expert on the subject of cuff links. His expertise spread across from history of cuff links to cuff fasteners dating back to the King Tutankhamen era. In addition, he is the founder of the National Cuff Link Society in the 1990 with hundreds of members, worldwide. Besides, he produced a quarterly magazine, “The Link” for more than 10 years. He has written hundreds of articles in those editions. Plus he also has a close working relationship with many cuff link manufacturers, collectors and wearers. Currently, he runs a cuff links website, JustCufflinks.com - It has the largest selection of cuff links and formal wear stud sets anywhere. Gene also promotes cufflinks via his website and at major shows throughout the United States. Moreover, he has an inventory and collection of more than 100,000 pairs of cuff links. This includes many thousands of antique and vintage pairs plus modern as well.


http://www.askandyaboutclothes.com/

http://www.justcufflinks.com/

Nick Ledingham is the owner of Paramor™ jewellery. A London based company that designs and manufactures jewellery and clothing. He also ran an online website, ParamorJ.com , which hold the biggest selection of kitsch & original silver charms on the internet plus some super cool silver charm bracelets, classic men’s silver rings, assorted men’s chains and pendants, Paramor silver cufflinks, women’s necklaces and chains, beaded jewellery, limited edition pieces, hand made pieces beautiful pieces made in the UK, antique silver jewellery and more. ParamorJ.com was conceived primarily to sell the Paramor brand of silverware. This North London based jewellery design and manufacturing company specializes in unique, edgy and interesting pieces produced in limited quantity. And only manufactures and sells silver that is classed as Sterling 92.5 silver. Adwin Ang is a IT professional from Singapore. He has a great interest on the topic cufflinks which gave birth to this e-book ‘Complete Cufflinks Guide’. He started his own blog on the topic of cufflinks to create community awareness. He shared the common view with Andy that the men’s accessories industry will be the trend leading in the next 5 years or more. He also has great interest to incorporate his interest for Chinese Feng Shui into cufflinks, not only for men but for woman as well. How the different elements in nature actually affect a person well-being has always been an interest to him. Besides, more and more Asia people are starting to place high regards on how Feng Shui can help them enhance their family, their life and their career. A marriage of both old arts into one might create a new sparks for the cufflinks community be it in the online or offline world. Until then, he will continue his quest to bring you more exciting information on cufflinks and hopefully creates new trends in wearing of Feng Shui cufflinks. [All future authors will have their profile added to this section. This is the intention of this e-book.]


http://www.paramorj.com/

http://mycufflinks.blogspot.com/

1

Cufflinks & You

Andy Gilchrist

Cuff links are a matched set mechanism for fastening a shirt’s French cuff, which is a cuff for a shirtsleeve that is folded back.

Cufflinks keep your French cuff shirts fastened, and add a dash of jewelry fashion at your wrist.

Cuff links are usually a small ornamental device, generally a pair of linked buttons or one button that fastens with a bar or shank, inserted through buttonholes to keep the cuff of a shirt or blouse closed. Cuff buttons took the place of cuff strings in the 17th century, and the word link appeared as early as 1788.

By the 1840s, cuff links were usually in the form of gold, silver, or pearl buttons held together by chain links. There have been many variations in cuff-link design, and they are no longer limited to the button form and may be made of any number of materials.

Cuff Links are largely a matter of personal taste and expression. The double-faced cuff links are the dressiest since they look equally well from both sides of the cuff.


GUIDE 1. Material: the face of the links can be cloth, enamel, metal, pearl, semi-precious or precious stones. The connector portion can be cloth or metal. Quality metal will ensure enduring jewelry. Gold (10 or 14 karat minimum) Sterling Silver, or Platinum. Gold – one of the oldest precious metals gold can be mixed with other metals for different colors and karats. The USA National Gold and Silver Stamping Act regulate gold jewelry, and require that it be marked with the karat weight and manufacturer. The higher the % of gold the more yellow in color and slightly softer the metal. These are the most common gold marks: 18 K or 750 (signifying 75% gold) 14K or 585 (58% gold) 10K (42% gold)

Silver has been used for jewelry since 3500 BC when the Egyptians created ornaments. The word “sterling” is short for “Easterlings” a form of money used in 12th century England. To be considered sterling silver an article must contain at least 92.5% silver. Look for “sterling silver” or “925” mark. Rich in luster silver tarnishes over time and must be periodically cleaned.

Platinum is very durable and has been used for fine jewelry since the 1880’s. Very popular until World War II when it was banned from jewelry use in favor higher priority military uses. It’s hypoallergenic. Look for a mark with “PT” or “Plat”. NOTE ON METAL AND DIAMOND MEASUREMENT.

The Carat or Karat is equal to 200 milligrams or 1/24th part of a pure metal in an alloy. The Dravidians of India first found diamonds in 800 BC. They weighed them on their scales against the seeds or beans of the carob or “carat” tree. By the way, diamonds, the hardest substance known, were named by the Roman poet, Manilius, in 16 AD using the Greek word “adamas” meaning invincible. 2. Small – Anything larger than your thumbnail tends to attract too much attention to your wrist. 3. Subdued -- Keep it simple, and sophisticated not garish. Double ovals of gold, silver, black onyx, or enamel are tasteful. Precious or semi-precious stones, patterns, scenes, and


links done in shapes add interest in appropriate situations. I have some in the shape of a shirt and tie, but I wouldn’t wear them to a formal event. STYLES of CUFF LINKS: (from most elegant to least dressy)

Double-faced are links with two identical faces attached with a metal link. You push one face through the “button” holes of the cuff. These are the dressiest.

Chain links -- A chain attaches the double-faced links.

Snap on are made up of two separate pieces that snap together.

Push-through -- This style has a bulbous or globular end opposite the showy side, which is pushed through the cuff holes. Also see Silk Knots below.


Hinged back -- This type has a bar, which can be aligned perpendicular to the link then opened parallel, after it’s pushed though the cuff, to secure the link in place.

Stirrup are cufflinks that wrap around the shirt cuff. Some consider these garish.

Silk knots have two knots linked together with and made of silk; one of the knots is pushed through the cuff hole to hold the cuff together. Silk knots are the least dressy style.


FIT: You may want to coordinate the metal color with your watch and ring, so that everything, for example, is gold, but that’s not really necessary. Many watches contain both silver and gold and color mixing is not scorned. Traditionally gold was appropriate for day, and silver for evening, but with the advent of a more casual approach both are interchangeable. Silver goes with blue, black or gray, and gold is best with earth tones. There is a "Rule of Seven" in women's fashion that applies to men as well. The "rule" states that there should be no more than seven points of interest on your body at any one time! The theory is that too much visual stimulation detracts from the total look. Points of interest could be a watch, pocket square, bright tie, blazer buttons, braces, cuff links, fashion glasses, facial hair, vest, anything that could draw attention to that item. Formal -- There is no choice on a formal shirt; cuff links and studs are required. Traditionally, pearl cufflinks are worn for daytime or evening white tie events, and black or gold for evening black tie occasions. Fashion Fundamental: The French cuff shirt and cuff links are deemed too dressy to be worn without a tie. They are best worn with suits, but an elegant sports jacket ensemble will work OK. CARE: Store your cuff links in a felt lined jewelry case or use any other method that keeps the links from coming in contact with each other to prevent scratching. If you don’t have a jewelry case just keep them in the felt lined box they were packed in when you purchased them. Of if they didn’t come in a box (where did you say you got these cuff links?) try storing them in a soft cloth in a drawer. HISTORY: (a link to the past)

In the 1600s, lace trims decorating shirt fronts and sleeves were replaced by ribbons or strings used as cuff fasteners to keep the dirt and cold out of sleeves. Later, jewels were added to the ties. These ties were called cuff string or sleeve string. Sleeve buttons, which were actually cuff links, made of jewels or glass (made to resemble diamonds), were popular in the 1680s


Cuff links were handmade items in the early 1700s and machine-made by the

early 1800s. Electroplating of precious metals during the Industrial Revolution in the 1860s provided affordable gold and silver cuff links for the "masses". Removable starched cuffs and collars for shirts were introduced in the 1880s so cufflinks became increasingly popular since it was easier to link starched cuffs than to button them. Original cufflinks were chain-linked and often made as imitations of buttons.

Enameled cuff links were first made in the early 1800s when Faberge did jewelry work for the Russian czar's family, but did not become widely popular until after the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917. Enamel cuff links were first made of metal, and then coated with enamel made from colored silica, or sand and heated to 1,600 degrees.

The cuff button was introduced in the 19th century to be used in lieu of cuff links. It was a small button or buttons sewed on a shirt cuff to fasten it. The early buttons were often mother-of-pearl. Andy launches his new Official Cufflinks back in April 2006. He can be reach at http://www.askandyaboutches.com

Article Copyright Andy, Inc. 2001- 2006, All Rights Reserved


http://www.askandyaboutches.com/

2

Link Up With Cuff Links

Eugene R. Klompus Are you looking for a collectible that is inexpensive to buy, very available, easy to store in a small space, and can be displayed on your sleeve? Sounds too good to be true? Well, let me tell you about the hobby of cuff link collecting!

I first began collecting cuff links during my teens; I was attracted by the many colors and designs. Later, as an adult, I came to appreciate their smart appearance on my shirt cuffs. Throughout it all, I labored under the impression that I was the only cuff link collector in the world. I couldn't have been more wrong! There are many thousands of cuff link collectors throughout the United States; there are thousands more throughout the world. What's more, hundreds more join their ranks each month.

Like most hobbies, cuff link collecting is addictive; the deeper you get into it, the more interested you become. Fortunately, it can be a very affordable hobby. And, though some collectors concentrate on only the most expensive varieties of cuff links, others buy them for as little as 25 cents per pair at neighborhood garage sales. No doubt, the ability to buy at low prices is a big part of the allure for many collectors. Eventually, practically all collectors seem to "graduate" to at least a few pairs of "special" cuff links. Typically, it's the desire for a solid gold pair, a pair of "signature" cuff links (a pair that was created by a well-known designer and bears his / her name) or a pair that carries some nostalgic reference. One New York City collector recently purchased an entire collection just to gain ownership of a pair that once belonged to her movie idol, the late Clark Gable. Who Collects Cuff Links?

According to The National Cuff Link Society there are two distinct categories of cuff link collectors. One group is comprised of cuff link "Wearers"; they simply enjoy wearing cuff links. The other group, the "Collectors", consists of people that save cuff links strictly for the fun and satisfaction of collecting them. Whether "Wearer" or "Collector", both groups are equal in their dedication to cuff links. And, whenever they get together, there is plenty of buying, selling and swapping in progress. As one "Wearer" recently punned, "The linkage at our swap meets is fantastic".


Although some of the "Wearers" only wear cuff links for dressy, formal or special occasions, most consider their cuff links as important to their appearance as their shoes. Some literally wouldn't be seen dead without them. Indeed, one lawyer reports that a client recently demanded that his will contain instructions that he be buried with a favorite pair of cuff links.

Polls of the "Wearers" provide an instant profile of the group. Surprisingly, fashion is not the primary motivation for this faction's interest in cuff links. They are quick to tell you that their main reason for wearing cuff links is because of the statement of individuality which it conveys. They enjoy the capability of cuff links to express one's mood, impress a client, or to demonstrate that they care about their appearance. Entrepreneurial "wearers" frequently wear customized cuff links that they use to promote their business; some even seek out cuff links that relate to the business of their customers...and make it a point to wear them on a business call to that account. Some "Wearers" delight in taking off their cuff links and giving them as spontaneous gifts to clients or friends. One well-known CEO of a very prominent Fortune 500 company always carries a spare pair of cuff links in his briefcase. In his own words, "I am always so flattered when someone admires my cuff links that I can't resist the impulse to instantly remove them from my sleeve and give them to that person as a present. That extra pair in my briefcase often comes in handy!"

Predictably, "Wearers" select cuff links to match their individual personalities. Gregarious types tend toward large and flamboyant pairs. Artists are often biased toward highly colorful cuff links; their taste also favors pairs made of natural materials such as wood, stone, coral, and silver. Hobbyist "Wearers" are often seen wearing cuff links that relate to their avocation; this explains the large variety of cuff links which depict paperweights, postage stamps, and antique cars. No doubt, coins are the most popular of this category. Cuff link faces made of actual coins or facsimiles have been around for at least 150 years. Manufacturing jewelers often receive orders to fabricate cuff links out of actual coins. However, serious coin collectors frown on the practice; they regard it as a cardinal sin if the coins have to be altered in the process. They insist that any soldering, splitting or hole drilling can really reduce the value of a coin; in some cases the alteration can render the coin worthless. More reasons for collecting

While many in the "Collector" group wear or show-off their cuff links at every opportunity for the sheer pride, others appreciate the hobby for other reasons. This includes those who save cuff links strictly for the educational value and historical perspective. They know that cuff links have always mirrored the state of the art, economics, and fashion at the time of their manufacture. They point out that depressed economic times usually fostered small, less conspicuous and generally conservative cuff links. Conversely, prosperous periods produced larger, highly decorative, colorful; and conspicuous versions. Generational styles and preferences are also evident in the designs used; the Victorian era's fondness for the fleur di lis pattern was very visible in its cuff links. Many collectors are interested in observing the manufacturing methods of the


time. Improvements in quality, materials used, and methods of closure type are interesting to compare. It is also fascinating to track the invention of celluloid, tintype photography, and other industrial processes as they were integrated into the cuff links of their day.

Where do you find cuff links?

A majority of those in the "Collector" category are attracted by the fun they derive from searching for cuff links at flea markets, garage sales, and antique malls. This includes the "high" that they gain from buying a pair of unusual or valuable cuff links for just a fraction of its worth. Most serious collectors have experienced the thrill of finding a $50 pair of 1920s era "Snappers" for only "a couple of bucks". Later they will relive the thrill by showing their "find" to friends and neighbors and explaining that "Snappers" are an extinct type of 2-piece cuff links that became extremely popular at the end of World War I. Perhaps the best example of a real "find" is the Indianapolis woman who bought a box full of buttons at a street bazaar in Madrid, Spain. Hard negotiating enabled her to get the box and its contents for the equivalent of $7.50. Back in her hotel room she noticed that one of the buttons was somehow different. After returning from her vacation, she showed it to a neighbor. A cuff link collector, he immediately recognized it to be a 17th century cabochon cuff fastener. This early version of a contemporary cuff link has an estimated retail value of $350. Considering its modest cost, her profit from attending the bazaar was not a bad day's work!

Many cuff link collectors buy from "pickers"; the term refers to people that scour their local area looking for collectibles for their "customers". Pickers usually live some distance from their customers; this enables them to cover territory that is beyond the geographical reach of the people for whom they shop. Pickers cover the flea markets, estate sales, antique shops, garage sales, and auctions in their area; they are always looking for items to send to their customers. How are Pickers compensated? Although there is rarely any written agreement between the "picker" and the customer, it is understood that the Picker will add a reasonable markup plus shipping or postage fees to the cost of whatever items he buys on behalf of the collector. People often ask how they might locate and establish relationships with "pickers". Unfortunately, there are not any directories of "pickers". Some collectors have located "pickers" through local antique store owners or professional flea market operators. Another method is to run classified ads in publications that cater to buyers of collectibles. Of times, ambitious "pickers" will contact collectors that run ads in "wanted to buy" columns.


Upscale collectors enjoy owning and wearing only custom-made pairs; they buy

their cuff links only from manufacturing jewelers. Frequently these firms maintain a large number of casts and molds that can produce animals, fraternal symbols, and other classic designs with amazing detail.. Other collectors prefer to deal direct with well-known jewelry or fashion designers; such original pieces can often cost thousands of dollars. Many pairs of cuff links bear the signatures or hallmarks of their manufacturers; this practice dates back to the 17th century.

Specialized Collections Because of the infinite variety of cuff links available, collectors usually choose some areas of specialization. It is virtually impossible to collect every type of cuff link. In deciding on a focus for their collection, most collectors adopt one or more of the specialty areas from the following list:

Most Popular Categories of Cuff Link Collector Specialization

• Antique (More than 100 years old) • Brand name • Material of manufacture • Fraternal Organizations • Sports • Advertising logos • Sets (Cuff links with matching tie bars, tie tacks or shirt studs) • Singles (Cuff Links without mates) • Precious Metal • Specific subjects (coins, cars, trains, animals, etc.) • Commemoratives • Closure Type • Cameos • “DO-ERS” a term coined by my wife, Pat. It refers to cuff links that work.

Examples: cuff links that are watches, compasses, thermometers, levels, etc. • Cuff Link containers and ephemera • Presidential or Political


While the categories on the above list are understood by their titles, a few

explanations might be helpful. For example, the term, "Do-ers." generally refers to cuff links that are not only functional as traditional shirt cuff fasteners, they are also capable of doing something else. This specialization includes cuff links that have built-in and working watches, thermometers, music boxes, nail clippers, dice, compasses, etc. People that specialize in the "Do-ers" are especially zealous about their specialty; many of them refuse to own a pair of conventional cuff links. Many "Do-er" cuff links were created out of necessity. For example, it's well known that 1930s era Bandleader Eddie Duchin's creative use of some ordinary nuts and bolts to satisfy an emergency need for a pair of cuff links sparked a jeweler to manufacture a whole line of 14K gold nut and bolt cuff links...and gave birth to one of the period's fashion fads. And, a sea captain's gratitude for the lifesaving directions afforded him by 2 small toy compasses later inspired him to have them made into cuff links.

Another specialty area, the "Commemoratives", applies to cuff links that were designed to recognize a person, place or event,. The late President, Lyndon B. Johnson, commissioned a local jeweler to manufacture cuff links bearing a sketch of the B17D bomber in which he was shot down during a 1942 air attack. Those sterling silver cuff links, including the etched word, SWOOSE (his affectionate nickname for the plane), are now a valuable collector's item. Cuff links have traditionally been available as souvenirs of Olympic Games, Worlds Fairs, sporting events, and civic anniversaries. "Commemoratives" are rapidly becoming one of the most popular branches of specialization. Besides their appeal as a memento of an important occasion, many collectors regard the "Commemorative" as a good investment. This is confirmed by the rapid price appreciation of cuff links carrying the logos of various Worlds Fairs. Recently, a mint condition, 1964-65 New York Worlds Fair 3-piece cuff link and tie bar set was sold by a Maryland Antique dealer for $250. Only 1 year earlier, similar sets were selling for under $200.

The "Commemorative" specialty also includes the many collectors of politics-

related cuff links. Throughout the country's history, it has been customary for politicians to reward their top campaign workers with a pair of souvenir cuff links. Always imprinted with the candidate's name, and date, these have become a very popular collectible. These cuff links are much in demand, and capable of much appreciation in value. As can be expected, the worth increases substantially when the candidate dies or retires from office.


Some collectors are more interested in the back of the cuff link than the front. They specialize in the various types of cuff link closures that have evolved through the centuries. These range from the primitive knotted strings and vines that were among the earliest known fastening methods to the very contemporary "American Toggle". The latter refers to the familiar toggle-looking devices that have been the favored type of closure in this country since the early 1940s. These specialists argue that the closure is far more educational and interesting than the cuff link's face They also maintain that the closure reveals much more about the manufacturing period's state of the art than the mainly adornment-oriented front. The various types of closures are well catalogued. Names such as Wrap-arounds, Levers, Chain-type and Loop-prong each have specific meanings to the "closure" specialist".

Specialization can also include cuff link related memorabilia. Some cuff link enthusiasts collect virtually everything associated with the hobby. For example, many collectors save vintage jewelry boxes that were designed to store a gentlemen's cuff links; others seek old magazine advertisements, point of purchase display materials, copies of patent papers that protected the inventors of innovative closure designs, documents relating to manufacturing techniques, and posters. Original boxes, particularly those in which cuff links were sold at the turn of the century, are highly collectible. If it pertains to cuff links, it's a safe bet that somebody is collecting it.

No discussion about the topic of specialization within a cuff link collection would be complete without mentioning the category of "Singles". The "Single" is the mainstay of cuff link collecting; it personifies the basics of the hobby. For many people it was the "single" that got them interested in cuff link collecting in the first place. Typically, someone purchased a "single" at a flea market or found one of Grandpa's in the attic. It was simply too interesting to discard. What followed was a trip to the antique store or a flea market to try and locate a mate for the "single". As all serious collectors know, finding that match is like the proverbial "trying to find a needle in a haystack"; the infinite number of cuff link designs made over the years makes it an almost impossible task. However, it is at that point that many people become hooked on the hobby. Finally, "singles" are the least expensive way to collect cuff links. They are very available and can often be purchased at little cost. For many, they are the perfect starting point for beginning a cuff link collection.


More reasons for linking up

Recently, I was asked to name the most compelling reason for collecting cuff links? It didn't take me long to answer. I remembered something that I had heard about 3 years ago from an 89 year old cuff link collector in Tampa, Florida. He said, "Mister, I have been collecting and wearing cuff links for the past 50 years. In times of stress, I was always able to relax by sitting down and admiring my collection. For me, they have always been the best prescription available to forget the problems of the day. They're just a fantastic hobby". Although I can think of a lot of other great reasons for collecting cuff links, I can't think of any that are better than what that elderly gentleman told me.

Cuff link collecting is fun, interesting and fashionable. That's why more and more people are linking up with the hobby every day. Maybe it's time that you start speaking "Off The Cuff ". SIDE-BAR #1: The 10 Most Popular Cuff Link Subjects of the 20th Century 1. Coins 2. Fleur-De-Lis 3. Initials 4. Horses and dogs 5. Transportation (cars, ships and trains) 6. Advertising themes 7. Fraternal organizations (Masonic, Odd Fellows, etc.) 8. The Shakespearean era's "Comedy and Tragedy" symbol 9. Cameos 10. Fishing and hunting themes


SIDE-BAR #2: MOST COMMONLY USED CUFF LINK MATERIALS 1850 - PRESENT

• Mined stones • Wood • Celluloid • Paste and other imitation stones • Mother of pearl • Shell • Bone • Ivory • Gold, silver and other precious metals • Base metals

Eugene R. Klompus is well known international expert on the subject of cuff links. He is also the Founder of National Cuff Link Society. You can visit his website at http://www.justcufflinks.com

Article by Eugene R. Klompus, Copyright 2006, all rights reserved.


http://www.justcufflinks.com/

3

Silver Cufflinks

Nick Ledingham What is Paramor and what does it mean? Paramor is my mother’s maiden name and was chosen as the company name for many reasons; in memory of my amazing grandmother Joan, in recognition of my mothers influence and also my grandfather Norrie Paramor, who was a very well known conductor and record producer in the 50s and 60s. He produced lots of great music and for quite a while was listed in the Guinness book of music records for producing the most UK ‘number 1s’. He produced tracks with The Shadows (including ‘Apache’), a lot of early Cliff Richard hits, Frank Ifield and all of Helen Shapiro’s’ tracks including ‘walking back to happiness’.

Paramor is a London based cufflink and jewellery designer. And has been trading for only 3 years but has established some good partners worldwide. We wholesale silver cufflinks on our silver trade website and we stock maybe 14 different styles of cufflink from classic ‘Fleur De Lys’ cufflinks to gold plated UZI machine gun cufflinks.

On the whole, Paramor™ jewellery is a high end street brand inspired by the world\'s sub cultures making for original and interesting pieces made with supreme quality and craftsmanship at a reasonable price. There are a lot of silver jewellery designers that hugely overpriced and you’re simply paying for plush premises, fancy packaging and high end marketing. Our approach is different and we hope the major attraction of our jewellery is the actual design and quality.


http://www.ak37.com/

We are retailing the cufflinks on our sister site and you’ll also find a mixture of classic and cutting edge cufflink designs.

Paramor initially started designing and manufacturing just silver cufflinks but now makes a much wider range including silver necklaces, silver charms, silver earrings…beaded jewellery and the incredibly popular silver and gold sneaker/ trainer charms. Paramor jewellery is also available offline from outlets across the world…Provider in Melbourne, Amazing Kicks in Tokyo, Arch 53 in Camden Town Stables London, Woodwood in Copenhagen…to view full list of stockists.

All our cufflinks are supremely crafted in the UK and are typically manufactured using Italian T Bar shirt fasteners. We also manufacture silver cufflinks to customer requirements – minimum order quantity is around 25 units plus an initial tooling cost.

Our cufflinks can be produced in different metals (gold, gold plated, sterling silver and platinum) with various backs/ shirt fasteners – T – bar or ‘chain link’.

We have recently been experimenting with oxidizing the silver to create a vintage silver look. We will also been launching our classic round and square hallmarked designs in a black oxidized finish.

We launch around 5 – 10 new cufflink designs every year. Most Paramor branded jewellery is available to wholesale customers through our trade only site. Paramor also manufactures bespoke silver designs for other designers.

Online website

ParamorJ.com is solely owned by Paramor and is predominantly a jewellery website. Paramor designs and manufactures jewellery and clothing and is owned and run by Nick Ledingham and family. The J in paramorJ.com just stands for jewellery.

ParamorJ.com also serves as a portal for other jewellery designers and manufacturers to showcase and sell their own designs.

Paramor J has been supplying its customers with jewellery (including silver cufflinks) for a number of years now. Through our experience and dedicated team of designers we ensure that each piece of jewellery that we provide has been made to the



highest specifications and we try to make sure that you enjoy your silver cufflinks time and time again.

Our range of silver cufflinks that we have available right now include: Paramor J logo, Silver Hallmarked, silver UZI, plus many more. As well as silver cufflinks we also have also wanted to be able to sort things out and we know that what ever your requirements we can help you every step of the way.

You can feel assured that the levels of service you will receive from us when you decide to purchase your silver cufflinks from us will be high every time. From your initial enquiry all the way through to aftercare of your silver cufflinks, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Everything for sale on the site is physically in stock and usually despatched on the same day so delivery time is quick and all products are accurately described and we believe well priced. All the silver 'labelled' items sold on the site are solid sterling 925 silver.

To side track, most of the site was created and built by friends and family.

ParamorJ.com was conceived primarily to sell the Paramor brand of silverware; As you know Paramor is a North London based jewellery design and manufacturing company specializing in unique, edgy and interesting pieces produced in limited quantity. Paramor only manufactures and sells silver that is classed as Sterling 92.5 silver.

'What is sterling silver?'

Basically this means that the silver content used to make the item of jewellery is made up of 92.5% solid silver and 7.5% of another metal (various metals used) to give it its hardness and durability – 100% silver would be too soft to wear and would bend too easily. This is the industry standard…Tiffany & Co. silver and most of the other larger expensive brands use the same mix. Some companies like Mikey and Accessories and a lot of the jewellery you find in markets, will be less pure and can be up to 50% silver, 50% metal. ParamorJ have features over 70 unique silver charms to buy in bulk. It is also possible to choose the finish of the product; gold plated, rhodium plated, oxidised silver for an old silver look. Paramor jewelry (that's how they spell it in the US :) is available in stores and boutiques worldwide. Small sample orders are available. Silver charm and silver cufflinks in all styles on London based jewellery wholesaler.



Since the online jewellery store opened, it has evolved into a portal for other jewellery designers and manufacturers and our aim is to attract other like minded design ‘houses’ to offer their items on the site.

The site and the Paramor brand are infamous for selling slightly less mainstream and sometimes controversial jewellery

Nick Ledingham is the owner of Paramor™ jewellery. Please feel free to browse his web site if you would like any further information with regards to the silver cufflinks. More info


http://www.paramorj.com/

4

Feng Shui Cufflinks

Adwin Ang

Before I touch on the topic of Feng Shui Cufflinks, let's look at what is Feng shui for the benefits of everyone. Feng shui is an age-old wisdom originated from ancient China some 3000 years ago. It is the culture of society and economics, the embodiment of culture stability pass down from generation to generation. Feng Shui has been practiced in the Orient for many centuries.

The basic 5 elements are water, earth, wood, fire and metal which play an important integral part together with Chinese symbols. The virtues of metal are morals, ethics, precise thinking, good communications and new ideas. Rounded shapes have always been regards as energy and harmony when associated with silver. With the exception that some of the different shapes which should be avoided at all cost. One interesting thing is that both cufflinks and feng shui have started to gain its popularity over the past few years. Feng Shui & cufflinks would continue to be a trend setter in the coming years due to the fact that people see it as a form of art. In addition, a combination of both ancient arts into our modern lifestyle has added a mysterious touch to our daily life.


5 elements colour representation Perhaps next time when you are choosing a pair of cufflinks or preparing to custom made a pair of cufflinks, you would want to consider the following chart.

Element Colour Earth Yellow Metal White/Gold/SilverWater Black/Navy blue Wood Green Fire Red

What is the meaning of the colour and element representation? Well, for example Red. Red is considered to be a 'yang' colour (positive energy) that symbolizes fame and vibrant energy. To the Chinese, red is an auspicious colour, which is commonly seen in birthday celebration, wedding and other important events. Red colour is considered to be able to ward off “yin” energy (negative energy). This colour is especially useful if one’s house is located near a “yin” site such as graveyard or funeral parlor. Basically, the brighter the colour the more positive energy it contains. You may want to consider adding some colour to your living environment or dressing by using the five-element principle. Rule of thumb is to understand your own character and use a colour to complement with your cufflinks face colour. Always choose your matching cuff shirts before you choose your cufflinks colour. I would also not recommend you to design/buy cufflinks with sharp pointed corners which is considered a form of ‘sha qi’ (killing energy). Never wear an overly colourful cufflinks during the day as it would attract too much attention.


Below are the 5 Chinese characters which represent the respective element.

While I was thinking of how to represent the 5 element into cufflinks without altering its original meaning, I come up with the idea of using symbols. Therefore, I designed the below five element symbols to be used on the face of cufflinks.

Metal Wood Water Fire Earth

Of course there are many symbolic Chinese characters which are auspicious and not forgetting those auspicious animals which I hope to cover in our next version of cufflinks guide. I am sure you heard before the saying ‘Words contain energy be it positive or negative’.

Adwin Ang ever since he bought his first pair of cufflinks, he has developed a great interest on the topic cufflinks. Like others, he seeks actively online for more information but information is scare on the topic of cufflinks. Therefore, prompted him to start his own blog to mine knowledge from the experts and at the same time to create community awareness on cufflinks. Hoping he could covers all the topics on cufflinks and consolidate into this guide.


http://www.adwinang.com/

5

[Your article contribution goes here. This page in intended to be blank.]


Showcase

CUFFLINKS DESIGNERS FEATURING

www.salt.com.sg

About SALT

SALT of the Earth - the purest entity of crystals exudes style and simplicity. SALT believes in the finest details and minimalist concepts in creating the cuff link designs.

Siong, the designer and creator of SALT, studied at Ecole Centrale de Paris des Arts et Manufactures in France. After graduation, he gained experience in designing with the fashion house Louis Vuitton and was greatly influenced by the Japanese aesthetics during his postgrad year at Kyushu University in Fukuoka.

In Fall 2005, Siong designed his first men’s' cuff link collection introducing simplicity, pastel colors and minimalist influences; the SALT label was successfully established.

The SALT collection resembles the designer: active, intellectual, embraces the spirit of travel and relishes simplicity. Living up as anti-conformist, he wants to be free to play with his styles and accessorizes according to mood and life. Yet he maintains his subtleties in design and preserving the charms of simplicity. >>> more info


http://www.salt.com.sg/

Resources

The list of merchants listed below are not in any particular order of my preference. If you wish to have your website featured in this e-book, please drop me an email or visit my cufflinks blog online for more details.

1. Cuffart.com Unique CufflinksDistinct, exclusive cufflinks from top designers worldwide. Hand engraved cuff links, French cuff shirts, cufflinks storage and so much more. www.cuffart.com 2. Cufflinks.com, Best Selection and PricesCufflinks.com has the largest selection of cufflinks anywhere. Choose from fine stones, patriotic, career themes, team logos and many more. www.cufflinks.com 3. CufflinksDepot.com Cufflinks SpecialistsCufflinks Depot has 1000's of styles of cufflinks, men's gifts and jewelry cases. Designer, sport and novelty cufflinks are all in stock. We offer exclusive, same-day engraving service. www.cufflinksdepot.com 4. Cuff Links at Neckties.comBuy novelty and designer cuff links. $1 standard shipping, no minimums no hassles. www.neckties.com 5. Cuff LinksCuff links from Hansen's delivered right to your door. Since 1898 we have provided fine clothes, tailored to fit. www.hansensclothing.com 6. Wide Selection of Cufflinks at eCufflinkCufflinks for every mood and need at eCufflink.com. Choose from variety of fun, elegant, traditional, vintage, and custom cufflinks. Return policy, free shipping over $30. 10% off 2nd pair. www.ecufflink.com


mailto:[email protected]?subject=Add%20My%20Website%20To%20Your%20Resource%20Page!


http://www.cuffart.com/

http://www.cufflinks.com/

http://www.cufflinksdepot.com/

http://www.neckties.com/

http://www.hansensclothing.com/

http://www.ecufflink.com/

7. Cuff Links 78% offGet a huge selection of cuff links at Goldspeed.com. 30-Day returns, ships today for free. www.goldspeed.com 8. Forzieri.com - Cuff LinkShop an extensive selection of designer accessories: ties, handbags, scarves, briefcases, leather accessories, cuff links, desk accessories and more. www.forzieri.com 9. Designer Cuff Links - AuthorizedDiscount on selected items in stock. Large selection of designer wear and cuff links. We carry brands such as Brioni, Zanella, St-Croix, Canali, Hickey Freeman, Jhane Barnes, Tommy Bahama. mymensstore.com 10. In the Cuff CufflinksCufflinks made from your own photos or artwork. Fast turnaround time. Only $24.95 for cufflinks that will be cherished. www.inthecuff.com *If you wish to include your link to my directory please feel free to visit Add Link Page.


http://www.goldspeed.com/

http://www.forzieri.com/

http://mymensstore.com/

http://www.inthecuff.com/

http://www.inthecuff.com/

http://www.adwinang.com/directory/addlink.php

Articles Contribution

To all cufflinks merchants, cufflinks designer, cufflinks authors and writers, if you wish to contribution your newsletter or articles to this e-book, Complete Cufflinks Guide, please email Adwin. I am the main person doing the compiling work. Below are some reason why you should contribute to this project.

1. Get your website(s) exposed to the Internet world. 2. Draw unlimited and on-going traffic to your website(s). 3. Increase your sales volume. 4. You can send this FREE cufflinks guide e-book to all your subscribers. 5. Make it viral such that you can encourage people to pass it on. Hence, more

people will goes to your website(s). (Step 1 to 3 continue on and on non-stop) 6. Revive the cuff links industries to create awareness in the Internet communities

and cufflinks lovers. 7. Make yourself known 8. Build up your customer base if you are relatively new online.

What is required from you? You may submit more than 1 article but only 1 article will be selected to be included in this e-book. An article on the topic of cufflinks. ( any topic which is not written yet in this e-book.) A photograph of yourself. A short write up of yourself/your area of expertise. Thank you and my best regards to you!

Adwin Editor, ‘Complete Cufflinks Guide’


mailto:[email protected]?subject=Articles%20Contribution

Disclaimer SIDE NOTE: If you receive this copy of eBook from a friend or a subscription service from your current newsletter, you can get a notification of the latest updated version by subscribing to this link service whenever it is ready. If you have subscribed once at my blog, http://www.adwinang.com, there is no need to click on the link. Copyright 2006, All Rights Reserved, adwinang.com First of all, I would like to thank you for taking your time to read this e-book. Please take a minute of your time to read this disclaimer. No part of this publication may be reproduced, reprinted or altered without written permission from the author/s. The information presented in this e-book is of most updated at the time of production. The author/s reserves the writes to stop anyone from using the materials if the distributor is found profiting from this production. You are not allowed to sell this publication on any auction sites or clickbank. We would consider affiliates program in the near future if an agreement can be made by co-authors. You are allowed to distribute this e-book to your friends, family or subscribers with no parts modified.


http://www.adwinang.com/lists/?p=subscribe&id=5


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