13 Necklace Chain Types: A Comprehensive Guide

Want to finish off your outfit with a necklace chain? Since there are so many choices, it can be hard to decide which type of chain to get. In this guide, we’ll look at the most common types of necklace chains, how to choose the right length, and how to tell if a chain is good or not.

Types of necklace chains

Necklace chains come in a wide variety of styles, each with its own look and feel. Here are some of the most popular options:

Curb Chain

The links of a curb chain interlock with each other when laid flat.  This style of chain has the greatest variety of widths available.

Figaro Chain

Another popular choice is the Figaro chain. It has a pattern of two or three small links followed by a larger link. This gives it a unique look that works for both casual and formal occasions.

Cable Chain

One of the most common types of necklace chains is the cable chain. It has simple, classic links that are round or oval and linked together in a simple way. This type of chain is strong and long-lasting, so many people choose to wear it every day.

Rope Chain

Rope chain looks like a real rope , which is two twisting strands spiraled together.

Rolo Chain

The links in a Rolo chain are round and thick, which gives it a chunky, solid look. This kind of chain is great for making a statement, and pendants and charms are often worn on it.

Wheat Chain

Spiga or Wheat chains are normally created with four strands of twisted oval links. The links are braided and woven together to make a lovely looking chain that is quite eye-catching!

Snake Chain

The links in a Snake chain are tightly woven together, which makes the chain smooth and flexible. This type of chain is popular because it has a unique texture and can catch light, which makes it a good choice for formal events.

Box Chain

The Box chain has square links joined in a pattern, giving it a beautiful and contemporary geometric appearance. Men’s jewelry frequently uses this kind of chain, which is often used for pendants.

Anchor Chain

Similar to the Figaro chain, except the Anchor chain alternates a single, small, round link with a larger oval link. These links resemble the chain attached to an anchor on a boat, hence the name. Available in a range of widths and popular with men in particular.

Byzantine Chain

Its structure is very complex . There are two rows oval link vertically connect with the other two row . It also a special shape link to fixed them outside.

Bead Chain

The ball chain has round beads fixed along a chain, either with some distance between each bead or, more popularly, strung close together with a small space in-between.

Herringbone Chain

Herringbone chain is composed of tightly connected thin and flat metal links. It can easily be twisted and therefore not recommended for strenuous activity or sleeping.

Singapore Chain

It is connected by plat diamond cut links and this links are twisted to form a diamond shape . Because it would reflect light from many angle so it has a sparkling appearance to catch eyes.

Which type of necklace chain is the strongest?

Box chains, snake chains, and wheat chains are some of the chains with the most strength.

Interlocking square links give box chains their strength and endurance. These are popular pendant necklaces for daily wear.

Snake chains are smooth and flexible, so they can move freely and don’t get tangled up. The chain’s strength comes from carefully braided links.

Wheat chains are extremely sturdy and long-lasting because their links interlock and produce a woven pattern. These make great everyday men’s necklaces.

Which type of necklace chain is the weakest?

Cable chains, curb chains, and Figaro chains are all examples of weaker types of the necklace chain.

Cable chains are made up of oval links that are connected end to end. They are a delicate chain that might break if pushed or snagged.

Curb chains have flat, twisted links that are close together. Even though they are popular for men’s jewelry, they are not as strong as other types of chains.

Figaro chains have a pattern that repeats every few links, starting with three short links and ending with one longer link. They’re popular for women’s jewelry, but their delicate structure makes them weaker than other chains.

What is the most popular type of necklace chain?

Cable, wheat, rope, and box chain are both more appealing to women and significantly strong compared to other types of chains of a similar size. If you’re looking for a classic chain option that will never go out of style, they are the choices for you.

However, the chain style you pick depends on your personal aesthetic and style. Many of the chain options would look popular paired together for a gold-layered necklace stack or bracelet stack. 

FAQs about necklace chain types

How to choose the right length of necklace chain?

After choosing the type of chain, it’s important to choose the right length. The length of your necklace can change how it looks and feels in a big way. Here are some general rules to follow when picking the right length of chain:

Choker (14–16 inches): This length sits close to the neck and is great for showing off a delicate pendant or wearing on its own as a statement piece.

Princess (18 inches): This length hits at the collarbone and is a classic choice for most necklines.

Matinee (20–24 inches): This length falls between the collarbone and the bust and looks great with high-necked clothes.

Opera (28-36 inches): This length looks great with low-necked clothes and can be wrapped around twice for a layered look.

Choosing the quality of a necklace chain

When picking out a necklace chain, it’s important to think about how good it is. Here are some ways to tell if a chain is of good quality:

Look for a hallmark. Good chains often have a hallmark or stamp that shows what kind of metal they are made of.

Look at the hook. A good chain will have a clasp that is strong, well-made, and easy to open and close.

Look at these links. A good chain will have links that are the same size and feel smooth to the touch.

What is the best necklace chain length?

When selecting the correct chain length for your necklace it is important to consider such features as your neck, your height, your body type and your face shape. Read this guide to help you get more about choosing the right necklace length.

In conclusion, there are many different kinds of necklace chains, each with its own look and feel. You can find the perfect necklace to go with any outfit by thinking about the type of chain, the length, and the quality.