Oro Laminado Chains 101: Cuban, Figaro, and Chino — Which Sells Best Wholesale?
When you're a shop proprietor or flea market vendor or an online retailer who is buying Oro Laminado bulk chains, they are nearly always the top-performing sector. However, not every type of chain is the same. Cuban, Figaro, and Chino (tejido) links all make money but the question is which deserves the most of your next order for wholesale.
This guide explains what exactly oro laminado is what it is, how these three styles of chains compare and which is the most profitable based on the type of customer you have.
What Is Oro Laminado?
Oro Laminado (Spanish word for "laminated gold") is an layered gold-plating method that is widely used across Latin America and increasingly in the U.S. Hispanic jewelry market. A base metal, typically brass is coated to a thick layer of gold that is often coated to create the appearance of 18k. It's not real gold but a quality piece of jewelry can last for many years, if you take care of it.
For retailers, oro laminado reaches an ideal spot. It appears like fine jewelry however, the wholesale price per unit is affordable enough to allow for profitable margins, even at affordable prices. This is exactly why it's the most popular choice for the online market, TikTok Shop, and in-person pop-ups that target budget-conscious buyers who want to keep the gold-like look.
Cuban Link Chains -- The Bold Bestseller
Cuban Link (cadena Cuban) is the interlocking, flattened-oval chain that's most connected with streetwear and hip hop. It's thick, absorbs light well, and is interpreted to be "expensive" even at smaller sizes.
What makes it popular:
- The crossover appeal is strong -both men's and women's market, not only one of the two demographics.
- Customers with recognizable silhouettes already search for their name
- It is well-suited to multiple sizes (thin "starter" Cubans up to statement pieces)
The best choice for retailers that cater to males' jewelry, hip-hop-inspired products or younger customers on Instagram or TikTok.
Explore the entire selection below: Gold Plated Cuban Chains
Figaro Chains -- Classic and Versatile
Figaro mixes larger oval links with smaller circular links, creating an elegant, "Italian gold" look as compared to Cuban link. It's been a standard in the traditional gold jewelry market for a long time and is a favorite of those who are a bit older or more traditional-minded clientele.
The reason it is popular:
- The timeless design does not feel trendy, and therefore it's sold year-round
- Wear it as a layering piece or by itself and will appeal to female and male collections
- Customers who grew up with classic gold jewellery, and especially in Latino families.
The best choice for stores that are building an "everyday gold" core inventory which isn't tied to the passing of a trend.
Check out the complete collection below: Gold Plated Figaro Chains
Chino (Tejido) Chains -- The Woven Statement Piece
Chino link, often referred to cadena tejida, or "woven" chain, has an incredibly dense, smooth that's almost braided. It's less popular on the U.S. market than Cuban or Figaro however it has a loyal and a specific fan base -- particularly among those who seek something different from the other chains.
What makes it popular:
- Chino is a distinct brand with Fewer competitors have Chino and it is a standout in your inventory
- A popular part of Brazil and Latin America. Brazilian as well as Latin American gold-jewelry tradition oro laminado originates from
- Often, it is priced at a reasonable price in relation to the visual impact it offers
The best choice for shops looking to create an edge or serving a customer base who are already familiar with Brazilian style gold jewelry.
Explore the entire range below: Gold Plated Chino Chains which include one called the Chains in Gold Plated Chino Link Chain - Oro Laminado Tejido Chain Available in 10mm, 8mm and 12mm widths beginning at $8.50.
Cuban vs Figaro vs Chino: Which Sells Best Wholesale?
| Chain Style | Best Audience | Trend or Timeless | Typical Margin Potential | Reorder Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cuban Link | Men's / unisex, streetwear, younger buyers | Long-running but trend-driven | High | Very often |
| Figaro | Traditional gold purchasers of mixed gender all age groups | Timeless, evergreen | Steady | Frequent |
| Chino (Tejido) | Niche, differentiation-focused, Brazilian-style gold fans | Niche, but consistent | High per unit | Moderate |
If you're able to stock only one type of clothing, Cuban link is usually the top performer in wholesale because it is the most popular and the most social media-driven pull. However, the top-performing stores don't choose just one. They use Cuban as their primary driver of volume, Figaro as the reliable backbone, which keeps selling regardless of the latest trends in addition, Chino as the unique feature which makes their catalog different from other retailers that has the identical Cuban chains.
How to Choose the Right Oro Laminado Chains for Your Store
Some practical questions to help you with your next order:
- Who's your core customer? Younger, streetwear-influenced buyers lean Cuban. Traditional gold-jewelry buyers lean Figaro. Customers seeking something different react to Chino.
- How do you price your ladder? Stock a range of widths for each type -- thinner chains as a starting price point, larger ones to increase sales.
- How is your current inventory well-balanced? If you're already overloaded with Cuban chains Add Chino offers your store an obvious options without overtaking your best-selling items.
- What's your preferred platform? TikTok Shop and Instagram viewers are quick to react to Cuban link's striking design boutiques in person and those with older age groups typically perform more effectively on Figaro.
FAQ
What is oro laminado made of? Typically a brass base layered with a thick coating of gold, finished to resemble 18k gold. It's not solid gold, but quality oro laminado is designed to hold its color and shine well beyond standard gold plating.
How long does oro laminado last? With normal wear and basic care (avoiding water, chemicals, and friction), well-made oro laminado can maintain its finish for years. Quality varies by manufacturer, which is why sourcing from a consistent wholesale supplier matters.
Is oro laminado good quality for resale? Yes — it's specifically designed for the fashion jewelry resale market. Customers buying oro laminado know it isn't solid gold; they're buying the look and durability at an accessible price, which is exactly the value proposition resellers are selling.
Which chain style should I stock first if I'm just starting out? Start with Cuban link in 2–3 widths for broad appeal, then add Figaro for a classic anchor style, and bring in Chino once you want to differentiate your catalog.
Ready to Stock Up?
Whichever style fits your customer base, the real driver of your margin is your supplier. Shop the full Oro Laminado wholesale collection at Amafhha Jewels for Cuban, Figaro, and Chino chains at competitive wholesale pricing, with bulk discounts available for retailers and boutiques building out their inventory.
