The short answer: platinum cufflinks are worth considering if you want a durable, naturally white metal that does not need re plating and keeps its colour, particularly for an heirloom piece. If you prefer a warmer look or want to spend less, white or yellow gold is a good alternative.
Cufflinks take knocks every day, so the metal matters. Platinum has particular strengths.
Why choose platinum
- It is naturally white and does not need rhodium plating to stay that way.
- It is dense and durable, and wear tends to move metal rather than lose it.
- It suits sensitive skin in most cases.
Platinum and white gold
| Platinum | White gold | |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Natural white | White, which can change slightly over time |
| Maintenance | Develops a soft patina | May need refreshing over time |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
Patina
Platinum develops a soft, satin like patina with wear. Many people like it, and it can be polished back if you prefer a bright finish.
When platinum is worth it
- You want a piece to pass on.
- You like a naturally white metal.
- You wear cufflinks often.
When another metal may suit better
For occasional wear or a warmer look, yellow, rose or white gold may suit you better and cost less. Our guide to gold, silver and platinum cufflinks compares all three.
The feel of the weight
Platinum is noticeably heavier than gold in the hand. Some people enjoy the substantial feel, while others prefer a lighter link. Because cufflinks sit in the cuff, a heavier pair can feel more secure, though the difference is small.
Fittings and mechanisms
The fitting at the back matters as much as the face. A bullet back or a whale back toggle is quick to use and holds well, a chain link has a relaxed, traditional feel, and a fixed back is the simplest and strongest. Platinum suits all of them, and because the metal is tough, small moving parts wear slowly. Tell us how often you will wear them and how quickly you need to fasten them, and we will suggest a fitting.
Designs that use platinum well
Platinum's white colour makes a clean background for engraving, a set diamond or a dark stone such as onyx. A brushed finish hides fine marks and looks modern, while a high polish suits a formal look. Some clients choose a platinum face with a gold fitting, or the reverse, to balance cost and colour.
Hallmarks
Platinum pieces sold in the UK above a certain weight carry a hallmark showing the metal and its fineness, struck by an independent assay office. On cufflinks the mark usually sits on the fitting or the back of the face, where it is out of sight but easy to check.
Matching
Match platinum cufflinks to a platinum wedding band, watch or tie bar for a coordinated look. For a wedding, our guide to wedding cufflinks for the groom and groomsmen has ideas.
Bespoke
We can design cufflinks in platinum or gold, plain or with diamonds or gemstones. Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
See engraved cufflinks and double cuff shirts and cufflink types.
Frequently asked questions
Is platinum hypoallergenic? It is suitable for most sensitive skin, but individual reactions vary.
Does platinum scratch? It picks up fine marks that form a patina.
Can it be engraved? Often yes, and we talk through what suits the design.
Which fitting is most secure? A fixed back is the simplest and strongest, and toggles hold well too.
Can I order from overseas? Yes, by video consultation, with insured, tracked FedEx delivery.