Cufflinks generally come in two styles, with the two sides of the cufflink joined either by a post or by a chain.
Ball return cufflinks use a chain link, with the outer more visible side of the cufflink linked by a chain to the inner less visible back end – the “return”. With the ball return style, that back end is literally a ball of metal.
Chain link cufflinks require some agility to insert the back end through the holes in the shirt cuff – with a rigid post it is possible to push the back end through the hole easily, but with chain links rather more dexterity is required to ease the back through the holes.
Ball return cufflinks are the easiest chain link cufflink to put on; the ball itself gives your fingers something to push against as you insert it through the cuff’s holes.
As with all chain link cufflinks, you get the elegant looseness of the chain connection and the opportunity to wear a looser, more comfortable cuff. The balls are also more appealing and interesting to look at than a bullet or plain fixed back.
The ball is likely to be made of silver or gold. Sterling silver is a popular choice for ball return cufflinks and can be hallmarked; more common is a plating of precious metal – silver, gold, nickel or rhodium.