Question 1

How thick should a chain be for a pendant?

Accepted Answer

It stands to reason that a large pendant needs a chain strong enough to carry it without the risk of breaking; in other words, one needs to balance the other. The clasp also needs to be suitable to withstand the pressure placed upon it. A wider and heavier gauge of chain will be able to carry more weight and will usually have a more substantial clasp, such as a lobster or trigger, to cope with this. On the flipside, a small and light pendant will sit perfectly well on a very fine pendant chain with very little weight to it. These smaller chains normally have a lightweight bolt ring clasp, which is perfectly adequate for the job. Aesthetically speaking, you also need to check that the pendant looks balanced and in proportion to the chain. So, for example: you would not put a 2mm snake chain on a 6mm round pendant as this would look completely out of proportion. Instead, you should ideally opt for something much finer, such as our 0.9mm Mini Snake chain which would be much more suitable.

Question 2

How large is the bail or hole that the pendant chain needs to be threaded through?

Accepted Answer

The best chains for pendants will move freely through the bail or hole by which it is attached, so this is a simple, practical check that needs to be made before buying a chain. Either physically try it out or look for details of the size of the end caps or jump rings in the description. If in any doubt, just ask! Feel free to contact us about any of our products – we’re more than happy to help.

Question 3

How long should the chain be?

Accepted Answer

The question of chain length really comes down to the preference of the wearer, however there are some practical elements to consider when choosing the best chain length for pendants. As a general chain length guide, larger pendants can be worn on very long chains as well as very short ones, providing they are strong enough. In contrast, lighter weight pendants are more suited to shorter length chains as they will simply get lost on a longer design and are liable to get caught in clothing and pulled, which could lead to breakages. Choosing a chain as a gift can be particularly difficult and is easy to get wrong. My advice would be to consider both the age and the frame of the recipient. Whilst you can’t generalise, I would suggest slightly shorter lengths for younger people. For example, as a general necklace chain length guide, stick to 16” – 18” for regular to small pendants (our 0.9mm hammered trace extendable pendant chain would be perfect as it gives you the option of two lengths). Then opt for slightly longer lengths for older customers or loved ones, particularly those with a larger frame – for example 18” – 20” or even 22”. Again, our extendable range is the perfect solution for this dilemma as it gives the customer two options in one chain. The longest chain lengths (24” – 30”) normally carry larger pendants and are a universal choice for both young and old. Droplet designs work particularly well, as do pieces with lots of movement such tassels and charms which will constantly move as the wearer walks around. (Diamond cut chains are a popular choice for longer chains for this very reason).

Question 4

Which style of pendant chain?

Accepted Answer

The next step towards choosing the best chains for pendants is style – and there are so many to choose from. And the question of style is perhaps the most difficult as we are all individuals with different preferences. However, there are some key points to keep in mind, particularly when choosing for others. Trace, Belcher, Curb and Snake chains are our most popular styles of chain, and they are popular for a reason. As some of the best chains for pendants, most people recognise and like them, and they go with a wide range of pendant styles. If you are unsure, pick one of these and you won’t go far wrong. The gauge of our most popular chains ranges from 0.9mm – 1.7mm, so unless you have a particularly large pendant to accommodate, pick something within this size range. I would suggest 0.9mm – 1mm as a good starting point for most lightweight pendants. Looking for the best chain for pendants with a modern and contemporary design? A simple chain (such as a snake or curb) is likely to complement it better as it will provide a clean, unfussy silhouette. More elaborate or traditional pendant designs might be better suited to a trace or belcher chain with a more visible link. Finally, if you want to elevate the chain, choose a style with a diamond cut or hammered finish to add some extra sparkle.

Inspiration

Choosing the Best Silver Chain for your Necklace

A Beginner’s Guide To Chain Types

Inspiration

Choosing the Best Silver Chain for your Necklace

A Beginner’s Guide To Chain Types

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