Necklace Chain Types, Styles, and Lengths to Know

A necklace chain can be a style statement on its own or a subtle complement to a more elaborate design. Chains are one of the most versatile items in a jewelry box and give countless opportunities for creative styling. Layer a collection together to create a unique look or swap the chain out on a necklace to refresh the feel of a long-loved piece.

There are numerous styles to consider, from simple and sleek to dramatic and bold. Whether you’re shopping for a chain to wear by itself or searching for the perfect match for a new pendant, these are the types of chains to know — and how to choose the right length, too.

Chain Styles

Chain styles range from simple links to tennis necklace mountings sparkling with gemstones. Most chains can be purchased in a variety of metal types, from platinum or white gold to yellow gold or rose gold, so you can match the chain to the rest of your collection. (If matching is your preference, that is. We love mixing metals, too.) Here are some of the most common types of necklace chains.

Cable Chain

Cable chains are simple in design and used for many different styles of jewelry. In fact, they are the most commonly used chain in jewelry design. This chain uses round or oval links arranged in a simple pattern to create a sophisticated but subtle look. 

Open Link Chain

When you think of a necklace chain, it’s quite likely that you’ll picture a link chain. This is another very popular style, and there are many subtypes of link chains used in the design world. At its most basic description, a link chain is composed of links of metal that attach one to the next, creating a chain.

Rope Chain

Rope chains are easy to picture — they look like ropes! Groups of multiple links are twisted together to create the winding, woven look. This arrangement of the links gives the chain a special sparkle when it reflects light. Rope chains are flexible and durable, suitable for everyday wear, and they go great with pendants. One thing to note is that rope chains can look dirty very quickly, so if you choose this style, plan to clean your jewelry regularly.

Figaro Chain

This chain, a design with Italian origins, combines oval links with smaller circular links. Typically, the pattern groups one long oval link with two or three round links and then another oval again, and the pattern repeats. 

Snake Chain

Snake chains are a bit bolder in style — and they’re increasing in popularity, too. This design lays flat thanks to curved plates that are strung together, creating the chain. It’s a more modern design that can be worn alone or with pendants, but its uniquely curved plates mean that it’s more delicate than other chains (and may be more difficult to fix, if links become bent). Snake chains may kink, so they need to be stored flat to avoid damage. 

Mariner Chain

A mariner chain, sometimes called an anchor chain, has oval-shaped links with a straight line that runs through the middle. This gives each individual link an elongated look. Mariner chains come in many different sizes, and this style is a great example of a chain that can make a statement on its own.

Wheat Chain

These chains are made to resemble an ear of wheat by weaving together four links. Due to the layers of links, these chains are durable and well suited for everyday wear. You can style them on their own or add a pendant to accessorize. 

Box Chain

The squared links of a box chain create a thicker line and, as a result, a stronger chain. The interlocking links offer strong construction and a sleek design — it’ll look more solid, like a snake chain, but can look delicate or sturdy, depending on the size of the links and the overall design.

Curb Chain

Curb chains bear flat links — usually oval or round — strung together in a uniform design. A flattened portion at either end of each link allows them to lay flat when worn. Curb chains may come in statement-making designs with large links or with smaller links that can be layered more elegantly with pendants. 

Tennis Mounting

While a tennis chain — used for a tennis necklace — is certainly more glitzy than the other chains on our list, it’s worth mentioning because it’s a stylish and popular look. Tennis mountings are typically worn on their own, without pendants, because of their delicate designs. 

Choosing the Right Chain Length

One important consideration when selecting a necklace chain is its length. After you’ve determined the style of chain you like best, you’ll have to determine how long or short you’d like the chain to be. This is largely dependent on how you plan to wear the chain — alone or layered — and whether you plan to attach a pendant. 

Necklace chains typically range from 14 inches to 30 inches, though there is some variance. One of the most popular chain lengths, especially for women, is 16–18 inches — this hits right around the collarbone and works with numerous necklines. For men, the most common necklace chain length is typically 20 inches or longer. 

It’s difficult to sort out the right chain length without trying on the necklace. Even further, depending on the style you select, some chains cannot be shortened or lengthened — so you want to get it right the first time. If you’re in the market for a new chain, or are trying to find one to add to a pendant, come into our shop to try on different lengths to see which will look best with your collection.

Find the Perfect Necklace Chain at JPratt Designs

JPratt Designs offers beautiful custom jewelry to fit every style, and we’re passionate about creating heirloom designs. Our necklaces for women range from statement-making pendants with deep, personal meaning, to elegant chains embellished with gemstones. Our jewelry experts can counsel you through a custom design and help you find the perfect chain to match a custom pendant, or even a statement-making chain to wear on its own. To learn more about our design process, contact us.