What are the different types of necklace chains?
Shop All Chains online at Cooksongold.
Looking for the perfect chain to complement your jewellery designs? Whether you’re creating a statement necklace, a subtle bracelet, or a custom charm pendant, the right type of jewellery chain can make all the difference. Our easy-to-follow guide breaks down some of the popular types of jewellery chains — from classic to contemporary — to help you choose the best option for your next creation.
Different types of chain to experiment with
Use our straightforward guide to the different jewellery chain styles to help you choose the right chain for what you need – and one that will complement your jewellery designs.
What is a curb chain?
Bold | Flat-Laying | Statement Style
The curb chain has flat, twisted links that interlock seamlessly, laying smoothly against the skin. Available in ultra-fine styles (as thin as 1mm) or thicker, bold varieties ideal for standout necklaces. The diamond-cut curb chain offers extra sparkle, with light-reflective facets across each link.
✅ Best for: Men’s jewellery, statement chains, layering
What is a trace chain?
Delicate | Elegant | Dainty Accessories
Trace chains feature small, uniform oval or round links, making them one of the most delicate jewellery chain styles. Often used for fine necklaces or anklets, these chains are ideal for subtle, feminine designs. Opt for a diamond-cut trace chain for extra shimmer and sophistication.
✅ Best for: Fine pendants, minimalist styles, bridal jewellery
What is a belcher chain?
Chunky | Durable | Versatile
The belcher chain, also known as a rolo chain, is made of round or D-shaped links that are broad and uniform. It strikes the perfect balance between style and substance, making it a solid choice for standalone pieces or layered looks. Its durability also makes it a favourite for holding heavier pendants.
✅ Best for: Layering, pendants, bold casual jewellery
What is a rope chain?
Textured | Twisted | Eye-Catching
The rope chain is formed by twisting metal strands into a spiral rope pattern, giving it a distinctive texture and dimensional look. It can range from delicate and refined to chunky and bold. Perfect when worn alone, or paired with a pendant for added flair.
✅ Best for: Statement pieces, layering, standalone necklaces
What is a snake chain?
Smooth | Flexible | Luxe Feel
With its silky, scale-like texture, the snake chain offers an elegant and seamless look. Made from tightly connected curved plates, it feels smooth to the touch and drapes beautifully. Also called the Brazilian chain, this style is highly flexible and works wonderfully as a standalone piece or with a small pendant.
✅ Best for: Luxe minimalist designs, smooth finish pieces, pendant necklaces
Code numbers on different types of chain
The code numbers that precede the different types of necklace chains relate to the size of the chain. For example:
- 12/18 Trace – 12 = gauge wire in inches (0.012), 18 = links per inch
- 18/3/1 Figaro – 18 = gauge wire (0.018), 3 = small links per inch, 1 = large links per inch
- 28/6/6 Z Curb – 28 = gauge wire (0.028), 6 = links per inch, 6 = double link
The information that is most relevant will be the second part of the number code i.e. the links per inch.
Choosing between the types of necklace chains
Now you’ve learnt more about some of the different types of chain necklaces available to you, you may be wondering how to choose the right one for your design. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the chain style that will best suit you and your work:
Finished or unfinished
If you’re just starting to create your own jewellery pieces, then you may not want to try your hand at creating your own chains just yet. Why not pick up some finished chain instead? That way you can concentrate on perfecting your pendants and charms before assembling the perfect necklace or bracelet.
On the other hand, our loose chain is unfinished and can be cut to whatever length you require, making it perfect for those unique jewellery designs, bracelets or repair jobs. Simply add your chosen chain end and clasp.
Type of metal
Use the metal that will best complement the findings, beads, and stones that you’ve already been working with. If you’ve invested in some sterling silver findings, then choose a sterling silver chain to accompany the components you already have in stock. We have multiple alloys in different types of chain necklaces to choose from – this includes sterling silver, yellow gold, white gold, gold filled and red gold as part of our loose chain and finished chain selection.
What size necklace chain do I need?
How much of a statement do you want to make with your necklaces? If you’re creating delicate charm necklaces, you’ll want a fine chain that complements the charms. But if you’re creating a statement piece that requires a little more support, make sure you invest in a sturdier chain that will work well with your designs.
How to choose the right necklace length?
And that just about sums up the different types of necklace chains! Make sure you double check the length you require with our handy necklace chain lengths guide. This will help you get to know the amount of chain you’ll need to order to finish off your piece. Print it off and pop it on the wall in your workshop. You’ll be creating a multitude of different types of chain necklaces for your customers in no time.
Determining the length of your necklace depends on how you’d like it to hang – whether you’re creating chokers, traditional princess-style necklaces, or longer pieces that sit on the bust. Here’s a guide to help you measure and cut the amount you need for your chosen type of necklace:
- Choker Length: 13 – 15 inches
- Collar Length: 16 – 17 inches
- Princess Length: 17 – 19 inches
- Matinee Length: 20 – 24 inches
- Opera Length: 28 – 37 inches
- Rope Length: 37+ inches
Now you’ve got a better idea of the different types of necklace chains available to work with. Shop all of the jewellery chain styles we’ve talked about in our guide and much more over at Cooksongold.
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