Cuffs are open at the back — a C rather than a closed circle — and slide on from the side of the wrist. These are in stainless steel.
Why a cuff
The gap at the back is the whole point. It lets the cuff go on sideways rather than over the hand, which makes it the easiest style to put on unaided, and it gives a little tolerance in fit that a closed bangle cannot. A cuff also shows more metal and more surface design than a link bracelet, which is why the boldest pieces in most collections are cuffs.
Fine-gauge cuffs can be eased open and closed gently with the hands to adjust the gap. Do it rarely and slowly, supporting both arms of the cuff — repeated flexing work-hardens metal and eventually cracks it. Heavy cuffs should not be adjusted at home at all; a jeweller has the tools to do it without stressing the piece.
Getting the size right
Measure around your wrist bone and subtract about an inch for the gap. Most cuffs are sized to an average adult wrist and worn with the opening at the underside. Sit it above the wrist bone rather than on it, where it will turn less and feel lighter than it is.
About the metal
Stainless steel — harder than gold or silver, will not tarnish, shrugs off the scratches that show on a precious metal. A sensible choice for anyone who reacts to other metals, and for a piece worn every day or in water. Black and gold-tone finishes are IP plated, a hard vacuum-bonded coating that lasts far better than conventional plating.
Care
Warm water, a drop of dish soap, a soft brush, dry. No polishing cloth and no tarnish to remove. Avoid abrasives on a polished or IP-plated surface.
Related collections
See also cuff bracelets in sterling silver, hinged bangles in 14k yellow gold, bangles in sterling silver, flexible bangles in sterling silver, hinged bangles in 14k white gold, all bracelets and anklets.
