As Jewelry Shopping Guide editors, we write about things that we love and we think you’ll like too. We often have affiliate partnerships and may generate some revenue from these links at no cost to you. Thinking about buying a necklace chain but not quite sure which one suits me? It can be quite difficult as there are a plethora of choices out there when it comes to necklace chains. Based on the design of the necklace and the occasion, you can narrow the list down. Here are the top 10 types of necklace chains that you can choose from:
- Puffed mariner chain
This is a unique chain that is inspired by the nautical world. Called the Mariner/Anchor chain because of its similarity to the chains connected to anchors, this is a beautiful choice for anyone who is fond of the sea. Or just fond of a sturdy, strong necklace chain in general!
The mariner chain is composed of interlocking ovals, with a bar across the center of each oval, giving it a distinct and intriguing appearance. You can find mariner/anchor chains in a variety of widths. The thicker mariner chains are more popular among men, while smaller, more delicate ones are commonly chosen by women.
Traditionally, mariner chains were flat, but a new trend is the puffed mariner chain. The mariner chain can be worn as a stand-alone accessory while smaller widths can be paired with a pendant for an eye-catching look.
- Ball / Bead Chain
A ball/bead chain is composed of a series of tiny beads that are linked together to create a chain. The balls can be either connected very close together or have small spaces in between them to allow for some movement.
Ball chains are commonly worn with dog tags and give a cool, street-smart look. Ball chains don’t perform well as a stand-alone accessory and look best paired with pendants. The flip side of this beautiful chain is that they tend not to be as sturdy as some of the other chains mentioned here, and can break relatively easily.
- Box Chain
The box chain is made of square links, rather than ovals and rounds, which are connected to make a continuous smooth chain. Box chains are a very popular form of necklace chain and worn by both men and women. They are found in a variety of widths, with the wider ones being popular among men.
Box chains are strong and don’t easily break. If a link does break, it can be replaced without difficulty. The chain can also be reattached without the broken link being replaced, without affecting the design. You can choose the length of your box chain depending on your preference and to suit your outfit.
- Cable Chain
Cable chains are among the most basic types of chains and look very similar to common iron chains. They have been used for centuries for numerous functions, from anchoring ships to creating small and delicate pieces of jewelry.
A cable chain is possibly the most common form of necklace chain used in jewelry and consists of a series of identical oval links that are interconnected to form a functional and beautiful chain. You can find cable chains where the wire has been textured or flattened rather than left round to form a flat version of the chain.
On their own, delicate cable chains aren’t very eye-catching but are perfect when paired with a beautiful pendant. Cable chains are sturdy and because they are uncomplicated, it is easy to fix a broken or misshapen link. However, a cable chain link can sometimes tend to come apart where it’s joined if the chain has not been properly crafted.
- Curb Chain
This common chain style is a basic, timeless design, made of a series of interconnected, uniform links. These links are designed to lay flat even while interlocked.
Curb chains have been a top choice when it comes to necklace chains, and heavy, chunky curb chains have a masculine touch and are especially popular among men. Smaller, thinner curb chains are feminine and delicate, pairing well with pendants.
- Figaro Chain
This popular type of necklace chain is fairly simple but fancier than cable chains. Originating in Italy, Figaro chains consist of an alternating pattern of flattened links in different sizes. Generally, the pattern is of one long link followed by either two or three shorter links.
Figaro chains are worn by both men and women, making it an ideal gender-neutral design. They’re a sturdy choice as Figaro chains are generally made using thick wire, and it is easy to fix a broken link. However, due to the pattern of the chain, you cannot remove a broken link without replacing it, as it will mess the pattern up.
- Rope Chain
A rope chain is one of the most beautiful chain types, consisting of a number of metal segments with the pattern twisting around to give the appearance of a real rope. This solid chain is one of the most popular types and is worn around the globe.
Rope chains are among the most durable and heaviest of chain types and possibly the most textural. They are perfect to wear with pendants as they are very strong, whether thick or thin and don’t easily come apart. Delicate rope chains are perfect when worn with a pendant, while larger chains are ideal on their own, as a statement piece.
Because of the twisting pattern which reflects light from various angles, rope chains tend to be quite lustrous and shiny.
- Singapore Chain
The Singapore chain is a durable and strong design made up of a series of interlinked segments. When stretched out, it is a beautiful and twisting open chain, that moves with almost a liquid touch.
Singapore chains are popularly chosen to hold pendants as they are very strong regardless of width. It is a classic, sleek chain that pairs well with a beautiful pendant and can be worn daily.
- Snake Chain
It’s easy to see where the snake chain gets its name from; it looks like the body of a snake and moves with similar flexibility. The snake chain is made up of a series of small rings, either plates or bands, that are connected tightly together to form a smooth, sleek chain. You cannot see the rings of a snake chain, as these are knit close together. Snake chains aren’t very textural, as compared to some other chain types listed here.
Snake chains are somewhat delicate, but they look stunning when paired with pendants. Because of their semi-rigid structure, they don’t tangle easily, nor do they catch on hair or other objects. Snake chains are also easy to maintain and clean, making them a good choice for an everyday accessory.
- Spiga / Wheat Chain
Spiga (meaning wheat) chains are generally made up of twisted oval links, that are plaited together in one direction, to create a delicate and symmetrical chain. A Spiga chain looks like a series of metallic fibers running into each other at their points, creating a beautiful textural appearance. The chain tends to look at the tips of wheat stalks, hence the name Spiga / wheat.
This semi-rigid chain is very durable and sturdy and can be worn with pendants or as is. This strong chain has a classic and timeless look.
Less known types of necklace chains
- Herringbone Chain: A herringbone chain is composed of connected thin, flat segments of metal. Each segment is bent at the center to create a herringbone shape. The result is a chain that looks solid, has less flexibility, and has a statement look.
- Omega Chain: Like the herringbone, the omega chain is also made of flat metal segments connected together. The kink and bend, making them less durable than most other types of chains. However, they look very stylish and are typically worn as chokers.
- Byzantine Chain: These are among the most elaborate and complex chains, with beautiful textures. The links are intricately woven to create a textured look. The chain also alternates in direction, with links alternating from left to right.
- San Merco Chain: This distinct style of chain isn’t well-known but is easy to recognize. Each link is slightly oval in look, like a grain of rice. Each link is connected with a little pin.
- Rolo Chain: Similar to a cable chain, the role has symmetrical links that are typically perfectly round. Each link is joined to the next individually to create a strong chain. Rolo chains are very strong but they have a very unique look, with each round link very clearly visible. Some don’t like the look of this chain.
If you wish to buy wholesale necklaces and expand your collection, we can help you with that. Contact us top Jewellery Manufacturers in UK to get the best deals and offers on high-quality necklaces that will increase the shine of all your outfits on every occasion.
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