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Having a good quality chain in your jewelry collection is an investment that you’ll wear over and over again. From casual errands to even your big day, a well-chosen necklace chain can come in handy with or without the perfect pendant to complement it.
In this article, we’re going to outline the top types of necklace chains and how to choose the right one for you.
Types of Necklace Chains
1. Figaro Chain
This very popular necklace chain has a pattern consisting of a single long link followed by two or three shorter links. It’s a simple chain style, perfect for either men or women.
The figaro chain style is very durable and doesn’t easily break. If it does break, it’s easy to swap out links and have the chain repaired, but you will need to replace the broken link or the pattern will be disrupted.
Thick figaro chains are perfect as statement jewelry and are popular for hip-hop style jewelry. Thinner and more delicate figaro chains are ideal for holding pendants or being worn by themselves for a classic look.
2. Singapore Chain
The Singapore chain is stylish and complex in its design, made up of several little segments that are interlinked for maximum strength. The beauty of the Singapore chain is in its fluidity, as you can’t tell where the links begin or end.
It catches the eye with its solid look. This is one of the top choices for necklace chains and works perfectly with or without pendants.
3. Rope Chain
A simple and stylish type of chain, the rope chain features several metal sections that work together to create a rope-like appearance. Like the Singapore chain, the rope chain is also fluid and moves easily but looks more like a twisted rope.
The durability and beauty of the rope chain are why it’s one of the most popular options for necklaces, to be worn on their own or with a matching pendant.
Thick rope chains make for perfect statement jewelry, but these chains can also be made very thin so as to be ‘barely there’. Rope chains tend to be quite shiny as they reflect light from the many angles of the metal segments.
4. Curb Chain
The classic necklace chain, curb chain, consists of a sequence of interconnected links of the same shape and size. The links are designed in such a way that they remain flat when worn.
This is a sturdy and durable design that’s easy to maintain and repair if necessary. Large, heavy curb chains are a favorite among men, especially in the hip hop arena. This is also one of the most durable options to hold a pendant.
5. Ball (Bead) Chain
Ball chains are a unique type of necklace chain but have become one of the most popular. It consists of a series of small metal beads connected together with little metal links.
Some ball chains have no space in between the beads, which makes for a stiffer chain, whereas others are more flexible with evenly spaced out beads. You’ll often see ball chains worn with dog tags or other masculine pendants.
The trouble with ball chains is that they aren’t very durable, and repairing a broken ball chain can prove difficult.
6. Box Chain
This chain type gets its name from the fact that each of its links is square and boxy in appearance, unlike the typical round or oval-link chains. This is a sturdy, durable chain type, that’s easy to maintain.
If the chain breaks, you can discard the broken link and reattach the chain without disrupting the design or compromising its strength. Thicker box chains are perfect worn on their own, while thin ones are elegant and ideal with a matching pendant.
7. Spiga (Wheat) Chain
Spiga, which means wheat in Italian, is an elegant chain type created by plaiting a series of oval links together in a common direction. This is a very durable chain option and perfect for daily wear, and while fixing a broken Spiga requires some work, these chains tend to hold up well.
The Spiga chain has a beautiful, textured appearance, with the metal links twisting together to create an elegant design.
8. Snake Chain
A snake chain gets its name from its snake-like appearance and movements– semi-rigid, smooth and solid looking. At first glance, a snake chain appears like a solid chain with no links, because the links here are hidden due to its clever design.
This type of chain is made by tightly connecting a series of small rings with no space in between.
Snake chains are not as durable as some other chains mentioned here, but they are beautiful and have a classic appearance. One thing people like about them is that they don’t tangle or get tied into knots, and because they don’t have noticeable links, they don’t catch on to objects.
9. Mariner (Anchor) Chain
The mariner chain was inspired by the chains used to drop anchors – simple, sturdy chains with interlocking ovals, with each oval strengthened by a horizontal bar. It’s this bar that gives the mariner its unique and stylish look.
Mariner chains are perfect for daily wear, as they’re very durable and easy to repair as well.
There are two main types of mariner chains – flat mariner chains, which are the traditional style, and puffed mariner chains, which are a modern take on the mariner where each oval is puffed up for a fuller look.
10. Cable Chain
This basic chain style features a series of interlinked oval or round links to create a simple but sturdy chain. This is the type of chain that’s been used for hundreds of years in various industries and is the least fancy chain type available.
Because the cable chain is very simple on its own, they look best paired with pendants. They’re a common-sense durable option that’s perfect for daily wear.
They’re also very easy to fix back together in case a link comes loose or breaks away. Look for well-crafted cable chains, as cheaper ones can have links that open easily.
11. Rollo (Rolo) Chain
The rollo chain is very similar to the cable chain. It consists of a series of symmetrical links that are typically perfectly round, joined together to create the chain.
Rollo chains have a somewhat masculine look and are perfect paired with pendants like dog tags for a masculine style. Because you can see each link very clearly, the rollo chain has a very particular look.
Thin, delicate rollo chains are beautiful with the circular links not as clearly noticeable.
12. Byzantine Chain
One of the most elaborate and texturally beautiful chains, the Byzantine chain features a rope like texture and a complicated pattern. Each link passes through 4 other links to create the chain, which is what gives the Byzantine chain its unique look.
Byzantine chain links alternate in direction, moving from left to right. This adds to the Byzantine chain’s charm because you’re eyes aren’t directed to move in one direction but instead are overwhelmed by the seemingly endless links.
No one knows where the name Byzantine comes from, but this chain type is also known by some other not-so-flattering names, including birdcage, idiot’s trap, fool’s dilemma, idiot’s delight, and Etruscan.
13. San Marco Chain
San Marco chains are very distinct-looking chains, featuring long, rounded links resembling grains of rice and connected together by little pins. The links can be arranged in two main ways – either end-to-end or in a side-by-side fashion.
San Merco chains aren’t very popular today, but they make for a very distinct-looking chain type. Larger varieties like this one are perfect worn on their own for a statement look, although delicate, thinner San Marco chains can hold a pendant. However, because the chain is quite attention-getting in itself, it may overshadow a pendant, so consider this carefully when pairing.
How to Choose the Right Chain Type
Deciding between the plethora of necklace chains available can be a daunting task, but having an understanding of the different types of chains and keeping a few crucial factors in mind can guide you to the perfect piece for your design. Here’s what to consider:
1. Finished or Unfinished
When you’re just starting out on your journey of jewelry creation, creating your own chains might not be your first step.
Opting for finished chains can allow you to focus on crafting beautiful pendants and charms. Once you’ve mastered that, you can put together the perfect necklace or bracelet.
However, if you’re aiming for unique designs or repairs, loose, unfinished chains are ideal. They can be cut to any length required, and you can add your preferred chain end and clasp.
2. Type of Metal
The metal you select should complement the findings, beads, and stones you’ve been using. If you’ve been working with sterling silver findings, pair them with a sterling silver chain.
Multiple metal types are available for chain necklaces, including sterling silver, yellow gold, white gold, gold filled, and red gold. You can select from these options in both our loose chain and finished chain collection.
3. Chain Size
The chain size depends on the statement you want to make with your necklace. If you’re designing a delicate charm necklace, a fine chain is your best bet.
However, for a statement piece that requires more support, invest in a sturdier chain that harmonizes with your design.
4. Necklace Length
The necklace length is determined by how you want your necklace to hang. Whether you’re creating chokers, traditional princess-style necklaces, or longer pieces that rest on the bust, here’s a guide to help you measure and cut the exact amount you need:
- Choker Length: 13 – 15 inches
- Collar Length: 16 – 17 inches
- Princess Length: 17 – 19 inches
- Matinee Length: 20 – 24 inches
- Opera Length: 28 – 37 inches
- Rope Length: 37+ inches
Where to Buy
1. Angara Jewelers
Angara is a renowned name in the jewelry world, offering a wide array of necklace chains. They provide everything from classic gold chains to sterling silver and more contemporary styles.
With their easy-to-navigate website, customers can filter by chain type, metal, and length, making it simple to find the perfect necklace chain.
2. James Allen
James Allen is another excellent place to shop for necklace chains. They have a broad selection that includes both traditional and modern styles.
The high-definition, 360-degree images on their website allow you to view the details of each chain closely, ensuring you make the right choice.
3. Blue Nile
Blue Nile is one of the largest online jewelry retailers. They offer an extensive range of necklace chains in various metals such as gold, silver, and platinum.
Blue Nile’s website is user-friendly, and they provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews, giving you all the information you need before making a purchase.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right necklace chain involves understanding different chain types and considering the design, metal type, chain size, and length.
Remember, the perfect chain enhances your piece’s beauty, complements your style, and brings your jewelry vision to life. With this guide, you’re well-equipped to make the perfect selection.
