How to choose the correct length for a necklace

When looking for jewelry, there are many factors to consider. Do you prefer white gold or yellow gold? Would you like to add a diamonds or keep it simple? Would you like to get a watch or a ring to match?

While the physical appearance of your jewelry is important, there is a hidden detail that is often overlooked. It can significantly impact the style and personality of your piece.

The length of the necklace is an important detail to consider when purchasing a chain. It can greatly impact your overall style. Let's explore how to choose the right necklace length that suits your personal taste.

Types of Necklaces

When choosing a chain length, it is important to consider the available styles and colors, as they can influence the appropriate length for you.

Chain Colors

When considering the color of your chain, there is no right or wrong choice. Any chain color will look good regardless of length. However, if you have a specific look in mind, you may want to think about how the chain's color can mimic certain appearances.

For instance, a classic gold chain is an ideal choice if you desire a necklace that hangs down significantly low. These chains are reminiscent of the hip hop era, reminding us of icons like Biggie Smalls or Run DMC, who frequently wore golden chains hanging down almost to their waists.

As gold chains gained popularity, additional variations were developed to increase the metal's versatility. One commonly seen variation is white gold, achieved by blending pure gold with other metal alloys such as nickel or silver. The same method can be used to produce other gold variations, such as rose gold with its pink hue.

Gold variants can also hang lower, but their shine is slightly more subdued, making these styles particularly suitable for shorter lengths. They will enhance your look with just the right amount of flair.

Link Variations

Necklace chains are available in various styles, each with its own unique personality. Consider the length you desire when choosing a chain.

The Miami Cuban chain is a popular style often seen on hip hop album covers. It features closely intertwined oval-shaped links. This chain is a classic and is commonly worn by rappers. Notorious B.I.G, Jay-Z, and Lil Wayne are some of the artists who have popularized this style. A gold Miami Cuban chain can replicate their iconic look.

Consider adding a Mariner chain to your jewelry collection for a unique and eye-catching look. This style has a nautical vibe and can be worn at a mid-length, reaching your chest.

Another option to consider is a Franco chain, which is similar to a Cuban chain but with a narrower width. These chains are ideal for those who enjoy wearing multiple chains simultaneously.

Now, let's discuss the details of necklace chains after determining the type that best suits your style.

A guide on measuring necklace length.

The length of a necklace is measured in inches from one end of the chain to the other. To replicate the length of a necklace you already have, simply lay it down on a flat surface and measure with a ruler or tape measure.

If you haven't bought a necklace yet, just use a string. Wrap the string around your neck and let it hang where you want the chain to be. Pull it down as if there's a pendant or locket attached. When it looks good, take off the string and measure its length with a tape measure.

Necklaces are typically measured in two-inch increments and commonly come in lengths of 18-inch, 20-inch, 22-inch, and 24-inch. An 18-inch necklace will have a loose fit around your neck but won't hang down very far, while a 24-inch necklace may drape down to your lower chest area.

Chains that are 30 inches long will hang lower, while chains shorter than 18 inches may be more suitable as chokers that sit against the neck.

Factors that impact the length of a necklace.

The length and feel of the chain may be altered based on how you choose to customize it.

Using Pendants

Pendants are often symbols that can be worn on necklaces and come in various forms such as lockets, amulets, talismans, or medallions. They are a great way to personalize your necklace if you prefer a more customized look over plain chains.

When attaching heavier pendants to your chain, it's important to note that they may cause the chain to hang slightly lower. If you prefer to avoid this, but still want to add a pendant, you may want to consider a lighter weight option.

Heavier pendants make a statement. They cause your chain to hang lower and add more weight to the piece. Weighted pieces are sturdy and durable, but you will notice the difference in your daily wear. Try different types to find what works best for you.

Chain Width

Like pendants, the weight of the chain can affect how low it hangs. Another aspect to consider when determining a necklace's length is its width.

Smaller chains are about three millimeters wide. They are lightweight and won't make your neck feel heavy. The chains that you see on hip hop icons are usually around 10-14mm wide. The heavier the chain, the more it will taper at the bottom, giving the appearance of a longer necklace.

Jay-Z is known for wearing a thick gold chain that cost him $200,000. The chain hangs low on his body due to its width. If you're interested in a large chain that sparks conversation, consider one with a width of 20mm or more.

Base Metal

An often overlooked factor that can impact the weight and length of a chain is the base metal used in the necklace. It is likely that many hip hop legends wear necklaces made of solid gold. However, as demonstrated by Jay-Z's expensive purchase, these are not easily affordable for most people.

Gold chains are typically gold plated, which means a layer of pure gold is applied on top of a base metal. The choice of base metal can slightly impact the weight of the necklace, which in turn affects how it hangs on your chest.

High-quality base metals include stainless steel, brass and sterling silver, which are durable, sturdy, and malleable. It is recommended to consider chains made of these metals for a proper fit and authentic appearance.

In Summary

The length of a necklace is an important factor to consider when making a purchase. The color and style of the necklace will determine the appropriate length, while the width of the chain and the metal composition will affect how it fits on the body.

If you are unsure about the desired length for your chain, you can use a piece of string to determine your preference. Afterward, you can decide if you would like to add a pendant to your collection.

When choosing a necklace, it is important to consider how it makes you feel, regardless of its length.