Flash for Your Wrist: Men's Cuban Link Bracelet Style Guide

You already picked up a Cuban link chain to upgrade your fit, but you want to add another piece of drip to complete the look. When you’re looking to add to your accessory game, few pieces can compete with the aesthetics and visual appeal of a Cuban link bracelet. 

The Cuban link’s timeless look and sleek finish bring plenty of shine and do all the talking for you. Whether you’re dressed up for a night out, or you’re rocking a casual outfit at home, you can accentuate your look with a piece that’s going to draw eyes wherever you go. 

If you’re looking to pick up a new Cuban link bracelet for your collection, we got you. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know. First, for any newcomers, let’s start by explaining why Cuban links are some of the best in the game. 

What Are Cuban Links? 

Cuban link jewelry is the epitome of luxury and style. Its bold and intricate design has become a staple in the world of high-end jewelry, gracing the wrists and necks of celebrities and fashion icons alike. This bold and eye-catching style effortlessly demands attention. 

Cuban link bracelets and chains are characterized by thick, tightly woven links that create a flat and smooth surface. The links are usually oval or rectangular in shape, with beveled edges that give the piece a clean and polished appearance. The style was originally used for chains and bracelets, but it has since been adapted for other types of jewelry as well, including rings and pendants.

At its core, Cuban link jewelry is all about making a statement. It's a style that exudes confidence, letting the world know that you're not afraid to stand out and be noticed.

The reason it’s called “Cuban” link jewelry is that the style first became popular in the 1970s among Cuban communities in the Miami area. Jewelers who moved to the U.S. from Cuba brought their craftsmanship and expertise with them to introduce a style that’s now timeless, iconic, and instantly recognizable wherever you go. 

In today’s jewelry game, Cuban links remain fast-selling pieces. Over the decades, techniques have evolved to introduce new link shapes and stone settings that enhance shine and offer a more distinct appearance. 

Types of Cuban Link Bracelets

Traditional Cuban Links 

The ones that started it all. A traditional Cuban link is characterized by smooth, rounded edges and tight link spacing. 

The gold finish does all the talking for you, and you can choose how big of a statement you want to make by selecting a width that best suits your personal style. For example, a 12mm bracelet will be immediately visible on your wrist, while one that’s 5mm wide adds a more subtle drip to your fit. 

Diamond Prong Links 

Diamond prong links are characterized by beveled edges and hand-set stones. They’re completely flooded with hand-set stones for maximum shine and the boldest statement possible.

The shade of metal that you select can also add a unique aesthetic to the shine. White gold provides an icier edge similar to silver with a brighter characteristic, yellow gold is a warmer and more lustrous glow, and rose gold adds a fiery flare for a bold look. 

Iced Cuban Links 

Iced Cuban links mimic a similar appearance to a diamond prong link but with the rounded edges that you’d see on a traditional Cuban. This creates a smoother silhouette compared to the hard angles you’d find on a diamond prong. 

Essentially, an iced Cuban brings together a modern diamond prong and a traditional Cuban link together. It can be worn with any fit for any occasion while attracting plenty of attention. 

Micro Cuban Link Bracelets

As the name suggests, a micro Cuban link is a slimmed-down version of a traditional Cuban or diamond prong link. It provides plenty of shine but in a more subtle fashion for when you want to add just a touch of drip to your outfit for the occasion. 

Two-Tone Bracelets 

Though not exclusive to Cuban links, a two-tone bracelet refers to any type of bracelet with two metals with contrasting finishes. They add a unique twist and can easily become a conversation piece. 

With two-tone pieces, you also can wear them with more than one type of metal and tie it all together with your bracelet to create a bold aesthetic that will get you noticed. 

GLD Links 

As longtime admirers of the craftsmanship behind Cuban links, we decided to add our own twist to the link style that put us on the map. Each GLD link bracelet is custom-designed and molded with rounded and angled links flooded with hand-set stones to ice you out wherever you go. For a finishing touch, the bracelet is connected by our signature GLD clasp, also fully iced. 

How to Spot a Quality Cuban Link Bracelet

When it comes to finding the perfect Cuban link bracelet, there are a few key features that you should be looking out for. Not all Cuban link bracelets are created equal, so it's important to ensure that you're investing in a piece that is of high quality and will stand the test of time. Here are some things to consider:

Chain Construction

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a Cuban link bracelet is the thickness of the chain. Regardless of the width of the links, a high-quality Cuban link bracelet should be thick and sturdy, with links that are tightly woven together. A thin or flimsy chain is not only less durable, but it can also look cheap and ruin the overall aesthetic of the bracelet.

Metal Quality

The metal used to create the Cuban link bracelet is also a critical factor to consider. A quality Cuban link bracelet should be made from high-grade materials such as 14K or 18K gold. Be wary of bracelets that are made from low-grade metals, as they are more likely to tarnish or even break over time.

If you’re shopping for a gold-plated piece, also consider the base metal. At GLD, we use 316L surgical-grade stainless steel for its durability and its ability to hold the plating excellently. 

Clasp Construction

The clasp is the mechanism that keeps the bracelet securely fastened around your wrist. A well-made Cuban link bracelet should have a sturdy and reliable clasp that won't easily come undone. A poorly made clasp can result in the bracelet falling off and potentially getting lost or damaged.

Design and Craftsmanship 

The design and craftsmanship of the bracelet are also key factors. Look for a bracelet that has a clean and polished appearance, with no visible flaws or imperfections. The links should be tightly woven together, with a consistent size and shape throughout the bracelet. A Cuban link bracelet should also be comfortable to wear, with no rough or sharp edges that can irritate the skin.

Get the Dopest Cuban Link Bracelets in the Game 

At GLD, we’re all about Cuban links. They put us on the map, and they still remain our hottest sellers today. We got you covered with Cuban rings, bracelets, and chains made from the finest metals and meticulous craftsmanship so that you can always look and feel your best. 

To add a new piece to your collection, shop our full range of bracelets or hit us up anytime for more information.