Popular Jewelry Chain Styles

Chains

A standard chain is some linked loops of metal wire. Sometimes, connected balls or discs - as opposed to loops - are used for the chain links.

Early artisans fashioned chains yourself. Today, some chains remain handmade. But making chains yourself is actually a labor-intensive and costly process. Each link needs to be individually shaped, linked to the next link, and soldered shut. The advantage, though, is that designers can make unique chains, with intricately patterned links in unusual abstract shapes. However, most chains today are machine-made.

Heavy gold neck chains, worn with the without pendants, are already popular throughout history, especially in the Renaissance and Victorian eras. Today, body chain in a variety of link styles are offered in a range of standard lengths:

US 16 inches 18 inches 20 inches 24 inches 30 inches 36 inches

Chains may also be popular worn around the wrist as bracelets, often within a matching neck chain and bracelet chain ensemble. The common length for the woman's bracelet chain is approximately 7.5 inches (19 centimeters).

Popular Chain Styles

The curb chain is actually a jewelry store staple. Sturdy and attractive, curb chains often constitute the links of traditional men's and women's identification bracelets. The curb chain style is made up of oval links which can be each twisted about 85 degrees after which flattened and so the chain lies flat. Curb chains are strong yet flexible, plus they are generally very easy to repair.

The Figaro chain is actually a fashionable version of the curb chain. The Figaro chain's principal links are elongated. Between each pair of long links in a small grouping of three short links. The word "Figaro" may also make reference to other chain styles which contain one long link combined with a particular amount of short links inside a repeating pattern.

Rope chains are classics that provide a large, opulent look, particularly in larger widths. These chains might be solid or hollow. Solid ropes are sturdy chains for suspending pendants and charms. Rope chains are usually consisting of oval links. A couple of links are connected to each adjacent link. Small flat surfaces are sometimes applied to rope chain links for more sparkle.