[Tools]

Rather than using the side-cutters, you can lay the bracelet flat, and using a pocket knife, lay the blade between the edges of the link to separate. Then tap the top of the blade with a small hammer and it will wedge between the two halves, spreading them apart.

After they are spread a little, you can use small screwdrivers to further spread the link apart until it pops fully apart..

This way, if you are careful, it does not damage any links. The link can be pressed back together with a little loctite and be almost good as new..