Different types of jewelry chains bring a distinctive vibe and style to your look. Some more common styles include cable chains, which feature rounded links, and box chains, which have squared-off links.
Understanding how to care for your necklace chains can help prevent damage over time. Certain chemicals in perfumes, deodorants, and moisturizers can corrode a necklace chain over time.
Cable Chain
A cable chain is the most common jewelry chain, featuring uniformly sized oval or rounded links connected. It is available in various styles, including flat and rope cable chains with twisted links for a textured appearance. It is also available in a wide range of thicknesses, from delicate choker-style to long lengths below the collarbone.
More detailed styles of jewelry chains include herringbone chains, which have intricate overlapping links and can be challenging to repair if they kink. Other variations include elongated link chains with squared links and a chain with a braided or plaited appearance known as Espiga chains (also called wheat chains).
There are many options for those who enjoy experimenting with jewelry-making chains. Pelline chain, for example, consists of tiny metal spheres that are evenly spaced throughout the chain rather than open links. It is available in various sizes and can be fixed regularly with connector bars.
Rope Chain
Rope chains are a classic jewelry chain type, combining eye-catching twisted links with durability. Available in sterling silver or gold, they are an excellent choice for both men and women. Rope chains will stretch and lengthen slightly over time, but the thicker they are, the less this is noticeable. They are easy for a jeweler to fix if needed.
Spiga or wheat (or swivel) chain is a rope style that resembles a v-pattern of linked rings. Spiga chains are often thinner than standard ropes.
Box chain consists of square, flat wire links that tightly interlink to resemble a box closely. Thinner box chains are great for layered necklaces and look amazing with pendants. The thicker versions look great worn by men or women as statement pieces.
Figaro and herringbone are both variations of a cable chain design. The alternating oval link pattern gives these chains a unique appearance, making them stand out from other necklace types.
Box Chain
The box chain is known for its durability and strength in jewelry chains. This style features flat rectangular links joined at the corners and can be made in various widths. These chains are incredibly durable and can hold large pendants or lockets without breaking.
Like cable chains, these necklaces are easy to repair by a jeweler. A simple soldering job is often enough to fix a broken link. A reputable jeweler will also be able to remove and replace a lost link with ease.
This style of chain is a classic, and the simplicity of the design makes it suitable for any pendant or locket. This versatile clothing can be worn in a casual or formal setting. It is also very versatile and popular for couples to wear matching pieces to symbolize their love and commitment.
Pelline Chain
A pelline chain is a dainty jewelry chain featuring tiny metal spheres of little balls fixed at regular intervals along the length. It’s a lovely style for your designs, especially with delicate beads like pearls and faceted rondelle beads.
Elongating is a cold metal process that can narrow your chain while adding interest through new link styles. It includes a beautiful intricate plaited look known as Espiga Chain.
When wearing your chain, avoid scratching it on other jewelry pieces – this can damage the surface and dull your piece over time. Please store your jewelry safely, using hooks or a jewelry tree to prevent it from getting caught on other items. It’s also a good idea to wrap your necklace chains in soft cloth to protect the links from becoming loose or damaging. It also helps keep the chains safe when you’re not wearing them.
