A Cuban link chain is made of thick, rounded oval links that interlock and are pressed flat so the chain lies smooth against your skin. It is one of the most popular gold chains because it looks bold, feels substantial and works on its own or with a pendant.
What makes a chain a Cuban link?
Cuban links belong to the curb chain family. Each link is twisted so it lies flat, then links are tightly interlocked so the chain has a uniform, rope-like flow. The result is a chain that drapes well and does not flip around much.
You will see two names used a lot:
-
Classic Cuban (Cuban curb): slightly more open links with a flatter profile.
-
Miami Cuban: thicker, rounder links set very close together, so the chain looks dense and heavy. This is the style most people picture when they say "Cuban."
Should I buy a solid or hollow Cuban chain?
Both are real gold when they are stamped 10K or 14K. The difference is what is inside each link.
|
Solid Cuban |
Hollow Cuban |
| Inside the link |
Filled gold |
Empty center |
| Weight |
Heavy |
Lighter for the same width |
| Dent resistance |
High |
Can dent if crushed or snagged |
| Repairs |
Easier |
Harder |
| Best for |
Daily wear, long-term piece |
Big look, lighter on the neck |
If you want to wear it every day for years, solid is the better choice. If you want a wide look without the weight, hollow is a fair option, just treat it with a little more care.
What width Cuban link should I get?
Width is measured in millimeters across one link. Here is a quick starting point:
-
3 to 5mm: clean and everyday, good with a small pendant
-
6 to 8mm: noticeable, a solid choice for most men
-
9 to 12mm: bold statement chain
-
13mm and up: heavy, made to be the center of attention
Some of our heavy Miami Cubans are customizable from 10mm to 20mm. For a deeper breakdown, read How to Choose Chain Width.
What length works best?
For men, 20 to 24 inches is the most common range. A 20-inch chain sits at the base of the neck, 22 inches near the collarbone, and 24 inches a bit lower. For women, 16 to 20 inches works well, especially in thinner widths. Wider chains sit a little shorter, so go up an inch if you are choosing a heavy Cuban. Our gold chain length guide has a full chart.
What about iced out Cuban chains?
An iced out Cuban has diamonds or stones set into the links. We carry iced out Miami Cubans in 10K gold with diamonds, and some gold-plated versions too. Each listing shows the metal, karat and stones, and plated pieces are always labeled as plated.
Which clasp should a Cuban chain have?
-
Lobster clasp: common on thinner Cubans. Simple and secure.
-
Box clasp: standard on wider Miami Cubans. It sits flush with the links so the chain looks continuous, and the best ones have one or two side safety latches.
How do I care for a Cuban link chain?
- Take it off before the gym, swimming or sleeping if it is hollow.
- Clean with warm water, a drop of mild dish soap and a soft brush. Dry fully.
- Store it flat or hanging so links do not bend or tangle.
- Check the clasp every so often. If it feels loose, bring it in.
If you are deciding on the karat, see 10K vs 14K vs 18K Gold.
Visit or text us
A Cuban link feels different in person, and the weight matters. Come try a few on at our family-owned store, 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, open 7 days, or call or text (973) 673-3800. Or shop our Cuban link chains online.
Cuban Link Chains: The Complete Guide
A Cuban link chain is made of thick, rounded oval links that interlock and are pressed flat so the chain lies smooth against your skin. It is one of the most popular gold chains because it looks bold, feels substantial and works on its own or with a pendant.
What makes a chain a Cuban link?
Cuban links belong to the curb chain family. Each link is twisted so it lies flat, then links are tightly interlocked so the chain has a uniform, rope-like flow. The result is a chain that drapes well and does not flip around much.
You will see two names used a lot:
Should I buy a solid or hollow Cuban chain?
Both are real gold when they are stamped 10K or 14K. The difference is what is inside each link.
If you want to wear it every day for years, solid is the better choice. If you want a wide look without the weight, hollow is a fair option, just treat it with a little more care.
What width Cuban link should I get?
Width is measured in millimeters across one link. Here is a quick starting point:
Some of our heavy Miami Cubans are customizable from 10mm to 20mm. For a deeper breakdown, read How to Choose Chain Width.
What length works best?
For men, 20 to 24 inches is the most common range. A 20-inch chain sits at the base of the neck, 22 inches near the collarbone, and 24 inches a bit lower. For women, 16 to 20 inches works well, especially in thinner widths. Wider chains sit a little shorter, so go up an inch if you are choosing a heavy Cuban. Our gold chain length guide has a full chart.
What about iced out Cuban chains?
An iced out Cuban has diamonds or stones set into the links. We carry iced out Miami Cubans in 10K gold with diamonds, and some gold-plated versions too. Each listing shows the metal, karat and stones, and plated pieces are always labeled as plated.
Which clasp should a Cuban chain have?
How do I care for a Cuban link chain?
If you are deciding on the karat, see 10K vs 14K vs 18K Gold.
Visit or text us
A Cuban link feels different in person, and the weight matters. Come try a few on at our family-owned store, 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, open 7 days, or call or text (973) 673-3800. Or shop our Cuban link chains online.