When admiring your favorite pendant necklace, the chain it’s on may not be the first thing that catches your eye. This may be because some necklaces are fashioned with delicate chains designed to not take away from the focal point of the piece, often a pendant or charm. Though necklace chains are often underappreciated, they are an essential component of any piece and are uniquely designed to complement the centerpiece they carry. There are a variety of jewelry chain styles available in different lengths and made from a range of metals, so there is something to fit any taste. Next time you find yourself shopping for a new piece of fine jewelry to add to your collection, review these chain style guidelines and you’ll feel like a pro.
Anchor
These chains resemble the actual chain used for anchors on small boats or ships. These are usually fashioned with oval-shaped or circular links arranged in an alternating pattern of horizontal and vertical orientations. These chains are tough and durable and are typically designed with larger links, making them ideal for men’s jewelry.
Ball
Ball chains, also known as bead chains, are designed with a series of small beads situated side by side along a chain. These chains can be made with varying amounts of space between the beads; however, it is more usual to have them spaced closely together. You are most likely familiar with bead chains as the preferred style of chain for dog tag necklaces.
Box
Box chains are fashioned with square links rather than the traditional circular shape, giving them the appearance of boxes woven together. Box chains pair well with pendants or as a statement piece on their own.
Cable
Cable chains, also commonly known as link chains, are the most popular jewelry chain style for necklaces featuring a charm or pendant. This type of chain is made up of oval links of the same size.
Curb
A curb chain is a simple design of interlocking flat links. The links are all the same shape and size and are oriented the same way. Often, curb chains are made with large, heavy links which makes them perfect for bold statement jewelry.
Figaro
Figaro chains feature flattened links of varying sizes arranged in a pattern that usually includes two or more small links followed by a larger link, and so on. Figaro chains originated in Italy, though they are now used in jewelry made around the world. These chains are uniquely designed and are often worn on their own.
Rolo
Rolo chains are comprised of interlocking oval links, with every other link turned 180°. This is one of the most popular chains used for pendant necklaces as they are often made to be more delicate.
Rope
These chains feature small links in a twisted pattern to resemble actual rope. To accentuate the intricate pattern, rope chains can be fashioned with different types of metals such as white and rose gold.
Snake
The links in a snake chain are not actually visible. Instead, they are strung closely together, giving the chain a tube-like appearance, resembling a snake’s skin. These chains are very flexible and are perfect for showing off a pendant.
Wheat
Wheat chains are made with four strands of oval and twisted oval-shaped links that are arranged in a way that makes them look like a stalk of wheat. The pattern of a wheat chain is quite intricate and can easily be worn without any embellishments.
Guide to Chain Lengths
Now that you’re familiar with the various styles of jewelry chains, let’s talk about length. Depending on the look that wish to achieve, you can tailor your necklace length to add the finishing touch to your ensemble. It might not seem to make much of a difference, but altering your necklace length can change your look completely. The following are the most common necklace lengths:
- Choker: 14-16”
- Princess: 18”
- Matinee: 20-24”
- Opera: 30”
- Rope & Lariat: 35”
You can wear one of these styles and lengths, or you can stack them together for a look that is entirely your own. Choker necklaces have seen a resurgence of popularity in the past few years since 90s fashion trends are recirculating. Princess length chains are the most popular for displaying a singular pendant, as this length falls right at the collarbone. Longer lengths like ropes and lariats are often seen in beaded styles such as a long strand of pearls, or station necklaces such as diamonds by the yard.
Next time you’re browsing for a necklace or other piece of jewelry, be sure to take a closer look at the chain. You’ll likely find something more exceptional and intricate than you expected now that you’ve had a crash course in jewelry chains. Whatever your fine jewelry needs, be sure to visit Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. Our showroom has an incredible selection of all the styles mentioned above and more!
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