The Miami Cuban link is the most requested chain style there is — and the one with the widest range of prices, from a couple hundred dollars to five figures. This guide covers what you’re actually choosing between.
What makes a chain a “Cuban link”
A Cuban link chain is made of oval links that are interlocked and then twisted and compressed so each link lies flat. The result is a dense, uniform rope of gold that sits flush against the skin rather than rolling. “Miami” Cuban usually refers to a heavier, more polished version of the same idea. A box-lock clasp — a hidden tab that clicks into the last link — is standard on better chains.
Gold options
- Karat: 10K is hardest and most affordable, 14K is the balanced choice, 18K has the richest colour. See our karat guide.
- Colour: yellow is standard; white gold gives a platinum-like look; rose gold a warm pink.
- Diamonds: a “diamond-cut” Cuban has faceted links that add shine with no stones; an iced-out Cuban is set with diamonds or moissanite across every link.
Solid vs hollow
This is the biggest price lever. A solid Cuban has real weight and durability and can be repaired; a hollow Cuban gives nearly the same look for far less money and weight, but dents more easily. Wide Cubans (10 mm+) are very often bought hollow to keep them wearable. Full breakdown in our solid vs hollow guide.
Width
- 3–5 mm: everyday, layers well, unisex.
- 6–9 mm: clearly a statement, still wearable daily in solid or hollow.
- 10–15 mm: full flex. Usually hollow unless budget isn’t a concern.
Length
20–22" is the standard men’s Cuban length — it clears a t-shirt collar. Go 24" or longer for a bigger drop or to hang a pendant at the chest. Women often wear 16–18". See the length & width guide.
How to wear it
A thin Cuban layers cleanly with a rope or franco chain at a different length. A wide Cuban is usually worn alone. Add a matching Cuban link bracelet for a set. For a pendant, keep the chain at least as substantial as the piece it’s holding — see pairing a pendant with a chain.
Care
Take it off for sleep, showers and the gym, wipe it down after wearing, and store it flat. Clean every few weeks with warm water and mild dish soap — full routine in our care guide.