Waves Cloisonné Cufflinks in 18k Gold

The Movement of the Ocean Reflected in 18K Gold and Enamel

I created these Waves cloisonné cufflinks in 2011. Like much of my they’re crafted from luxurious 18K gold and vitreous enamel.

 

I designed these enamel jewels for a businessman who loved to surf. These cufflinks capture the raw power of the ocean waves. Relentless and unstoppable, I can think of few things that better embody the modern-day executive.

How Did the Waves Became an Inspiration?

Like many of my clients, this one approached me with a design in mind. He wanted a way to blend his passion for surfing into his three-piece suits, without having to replace his trousers with board shorts.

 

Though I had not made enamel cufflinks before, I knew I was up to the task. After sketching up a few designs, I settled on this one. But where did the ideas come from?

 

First, these aren’t just random waves from any ocean. They represent the constant crashing of waves into Hawaii’s North Shores.

 

Luckily, as I’d spent years living above Waimea Bay, I was quite familiar with this vision of lapis-blue, azure, and cerulean waters as they piled against the shores. These waters are prime for surfing and a splendid choice for a surfer. And, they’re a great inspiration for the Hawaiian jewelry piece I created.

The History of Cufflinks

Cufflinks don’t just merely secure the cuffs on dress shirts. They’re a fashion statement. They can be made from almost anything, including cloisonne enamel and precious metals, like 18K gold.

 

First appearing in the 1600s, they did not become widely used until the 18^th century.  In the early 1900s, they reached the peak of their popularity. Though they fell out of use in the 1970s, they’ve become trendy in recent years.

 

Cufflinks are a fantastic way to bring your unique style to any outfit.