Chains are the underappreciated heroes of accessorising. A nice silver or gold chain can elevate a simple pendant into a statement piece or add a touch of elegance to an everyday outfit. Understanding the different types of chains available is an important skill to have when choosing the perfect one to complement your style and the jewellery it will hold.
Overview:
- Jewellery Chains Metals & Material Overview
- Gold Chains
- Silver Chains
- Diamond Chains
- Different Styles of Chains
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Jewellery Chains Metals & Material Overview
Jewellery chains come in a wide range of metals and materials, each with their own unique properties and aesthetics. Gold, silver, platinum, and stainless steel are the most popular choices for their durability and timeless appeal. Gold chains are available in yellow, white, and rose gold, and offer a luxurious touch, while silver chains provide a more affordable and versatile option thanks to their more neutral tone. Platinum, known for its rarity and resistance to tarnish, is a great choice for those seeking for their chain to last a lifetime. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is durable, hypoallergenic and more affordable than other premium materials which makes it the perfect option for everyday wear.
Gold Chains
Gold chains are a popular choice among women and men for their beauty and value. They come in a variety of carats, with 14 carats being the most common due to its balance of durability and affordability. 18 carat gold is softer and more expensive, while 24 carat gold is pure but tends to be too soft for everyday wear. Popular gold chain styles include the rope chain, known for its twisted design, the box chain, with its square links that create a modern look, and the curb chain, featuring flat interlocking links for a classic appeal.
The most recognizable type of gold is yellow gold, which is known for its warm, rich tones. The yellow tones are achieved by creating an alloy made up of copper and zinc which makes the metal more durable and gives it that signature yellow colour.
White gold chains are created by mixing in metals like nickel and silver which gives it that bold silvery-white tone. White gold is a popular choice for jewellery these days thanks to its modern and sophisticated look.
Rose gold is a common choice if you’re after something with a romantic feminine touch. It’s characterised by its warm, pinkish colour. It’s created by mixing pure gold with copper, which gives it that striking rose tone. Rose gold chains have been gaining popularity in recent years thanks to its unique, eye-catching appearance.
Whichever type of gold chain you choose, proper care is essential to maintain the metals shine and longevity. To keep your gold chains in the best possible condition we advise avoiding exposing gold chains to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap will help keep your gold chain looking its best for a lifetime.
Silver Chains
Silver chains are historically a popular choice for their affordability and versatility. Sterling silver is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper. It is the most common type of silver used in jewellery. This mix of metals creates the perfect balance between beauty, durability, and affordability, making sterling silver chains a popular choice for everyday wear.
Silver chains are available in a wide range of styles, such as the popular Figaro chain, with its pattern of one long chain link followed by two or three smaller chain links. The snake chain, known for its smooth and flexible design, is a great choice for pairing with a delicate pendant or layered with another necklace. The belcher chain, featuring round links that resemble a cable.
For those with sensitive skin, silver chains offer a hypoallergenic option, which means your skin will not become irritated with regular contact from the metal. Sterling silver is less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to other metals, making it a comfortable and safe choice for everyday wear.
To maintain the beautiful shine of your silver chains, proper care is needed. Silver is prone to tarnishing when exposed to air and moisture, but with regular cleaning and proper storage, you can keep your silver chains looking like the day you bought them. To prevent tarnishing, store your silver chains in airtight containers or anti-tarnish bags when not in use. Avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, perfumes, and lotions, as these can accelerate tarnishing.
Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and a silver polishing solution will help remove tarnish and restore its bright shine. You can also use baking soda and water for a gentle cleaning option. After cleaning, rinse the chain thoroughly with warm water and dry completely before storing.
Diamond Chains
Diamond chains scream of luxury and glamour thanks to their radiating sparkle and crystal clear appearance, which sets them apart from other jewellery chains. They feature diamonds set in various styles, including a bezel which encircles the diamond with a ring of metal offering protection and a modern aesthetic. Prong settings use delicate metal claws to secure the diamonds in place. This allows the maximum amount of life to hit the diamond giving it an incredible brilliance. Channel settings feature its diamonds closely set together in a row creating a seamless and elegant look
Diamonds are renowned for their durability and hardness. This makes diamonds a lifelong investment that can be passed down for generations. The four Cs determine the beauty and quality of a diamond: cut, colour, clarity, and carat. The cut refers to the diamond shape, proportions and facets, which affect its brilliance. Colour refers to the diamond’s lack of colour or inclusion of colour, colourless diamonds are seen as the most valuable. Clarity refers to the amount of inclusions or blemishes that are within the diamond, and finally, the carat which refers to the diamond's weight.
Diamond chains can range from delicate pieces with thin chains and dainty diamond pendants which are a perfect choice for everyday wear. Or you can go for bold statement necklaces paired with larger stones which are suitable for making a lasting impression on special occasions.
To care for diamond chains, avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals and store them separately to prevent scratching. If this step isn’t followed you may damage the chain and dull the diamonds shine until it is cleaned again. Regular cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap to remove dirt and oils. With the proper amount of cleaning and care your diamond chain will continue and sparkle for a lifetime.
Different Styles of Chains
Popular jewellery chain styles include the rope, box, curb, figaro, snake, and belcher chains. The rope chain, with its tightly woven links resembling a rope, is known for its strength and intricate design. The box chain, composed of square or rectangular links, offers a sleek and polished look, favoured for its versatility. The curb chain, featuring flat interlocking links, is a durable and classic choice often used for heavier pendants. The Figaro chain, a variation of the curb chain with an elongated link pattern, adds visual interest and texture. The snake chain, recognized for its smooth and flexible design, is a popular choice for pendants due to its modern aesthetic. Lastly, the belcher chain, with its uniform round or oval links, is a simple yet elegant option suitable for various occasions.
Cable Chains
Cable chains are a classic and versatile choice, its characteristic trait being interlocking round or oval links. They are a popular choice for both necklaces and bracelets due to their simple yet elegant design. Cable chains are relatively easy to repair if broken and are suitable for everyday wear.
Curb Chains
Curb chains are known for their flat interlocking links that lie flush against the skin, which make them one of the more comfortable to wear chains. They are the most popular choice for men's jewellery due to their durability and heavy look. Curb chains are versatile and can be worn with pendants or on their own.
Box Chains
Box chains feature square or rectangular links that fit snugly together, creating a smooth and polished look. They are known for their durability and sleek appearance, making them suitable for both delicate and sturdy jewellery pieces. Box chains are worn by both men and women.
Snake Chains
Snake chains are characterised by their smooth, flexible design, resembling a snake's scales. They are a solid choice when paired with pendants due to their modern look and fluid movement. Snake chains are comfortable to wear and are often used in layering necklaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right jewellery chain for my style?
Choosing the right jewellery chain depends on your personal style, the type of jewellery it will hold, and the occasion. Consider the chain's length, width, and style to ensure it compliments your outfit and the pendant or charm it will carry.
How do I care for and maintain different types of jewellery chains?
The care and maintenance of jewellery chains vary depending on the metal or material. Gold and silver chains should be stored separately to prevent scratching and cleaned regularly with a soft cloth. Diamond chains require special care to avoid damaging the stones, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and storing them in a fabric-lined box.
How to get knots out of jewellery chains?
To remove knots from jewellery chains, lay the chain on a flat surface and gently work the knot loose with two pins or needles. If the knot is stubborn, try soaking the chain in baby oil or olive oil to loosen it before attempting to untangle it.
Conclusion
Jewellery chains are a versatile accessory that will take any outfit to the next level. There are so many different metals, styles, and designs to choose from, which ensures there's a perfect chain for everyone. Whether you prefer the classic look of gold, the affordability and versatility of silver, or the luxurious sparkle of diamonds, understanding the different types of chains and what makes them unique will help you choose the perfect one to complement your style and the jewellery it will hold. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that your chain remains a cherished part of your jewellery collection for years to come.
