Jewelry Chains – Understanding Different Materials and Their Benefits
When it comes to jewelry chains, finding the right style will depend on your taste and the design you want to create. A chain can elevate an understated pendant or make a bold statement all on its own.
Gold is a versatile material that can be used in many styles. Karats classify it, and the higher the number, the purier the gold is.
Gold
Gold jewelry chains are a classic option with an undeniable appeal. They pair well with almost any type of clothing, allowing them to add a touch of sophistication and elegance. A gold chain can also be layered with other necklaces or bracelets for an impactful statement look.
A gold vermeil chain is a less expensive alternative to solid gold jewelry chains and consists of an extra thick layer of gold over a base metal. This helps prevent the base metal from affecting the chain’s appearance and makes it hypoallergenic.
Herringbone chains consist of slanted links positioned next to each other for a more casual look. The flat shape of this chain type is reminiscent of the herringbone pattern found on cuff bracelets and earcuffs and offers a more contemporary style.
A twisted curb chain consists of a series of flat curb chain links that have been twisted to create a more textural design. This chain type is excellent for adding depth and texture to designs and pairs well with various pendants.
Another option is the classic snake chain. This type of jewelry chain features round links that lie side by side, resembling the body of a snake. It is often paired with delicate beaded necklaces for a sophisticated effect.
Other jewelry chains include the king’s braid and cable chains, which feature a detailed rope-like appearance. The king’s braid chain has a traditional twisting sequence created from a vertical and horizontal pair of linked links joined to a middle section that is opened upwards and downwards to lock the folded back pair in place and open up the space for a subsequent link.
Beads can easily be added to these chains to personalize the look. Beaded chains are an excellent choice for anklets and bracelets and can be worn with or without charms to make them unique and completely bespoke.
Silver
Silver is a versatile metal that can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any jewelry design. Not only is silver a beautiful material to work with, but it also has many health benefits. It has antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infections and promote healing. Additionally, it is said to reduce anxiety and improve circulation. Although further research is needed, these claims are worth considering when purchasing a silver chain for yourself or as a gift for someone else.
There are dozens of different jewelry chain styles that can be used in creating necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings. For example, a foxtail chain comprises diagonal oval links woven together to give it a textured appearance, similar to the hairs on a fox’s tail. This chain style is ideal for adding a pop of color to a piece or pairing it with more delicate designs. Another popular type of chain is herringbone. This flat chain is shaped from slanted links positioned next to each other. It is excellent for adding a bold look to any outfit and works well with charms.
Alternatively, you could use a standard cable chain with uniformly sized round or oval links connected end to end in a straight line. Other variants include an elongated chain, which can be stretched or drawn out to enlarge the individual links. Cable chains can also be twisted, crimped, or flattened to create unique variations of this classic style.
The rope chain looks similar to the herringbone chain and can be used in place of it for more traditional designs. It is an excellent option for creating bracelets as it has a more subtle yet elegant look. It is also highly durable and can be worn every day. It can even be twisted into a figure-8 shape to form a choker. Another variation of rope chain is Spiga or wheat chain, which has a plaited appearance resembling a row of corn ears.
