Do you know how to choose the best chain to wear with a pendant? Pendant necklaces are perhaps some of the most classic pieces you can have in your collection. They’re available in a large variety of styles, allowing everyone to express their personalities, complement their outfits, or stand out in a crowd.
Although the pendant is considered its own independent element, the style and length of its chain can either enhance or hinder its design. That’s why choosing a chain that complements your pendant is crucial.
So, in this article, we’ll take a look at how to pick the best chain to wear with a pendant.
Let’s dive in!
The Styles of Chains Available
Let’s take a look at some of the chain designs are available to make the best match with your pendant. Traditionally, chains are available in gold and sterling silver. Match a gold chain with 10k gold pendants.
Ball or Bead Chains
These chains consist of balls or beads of equal size that interconnect. Rather than links, you can picture this chain like a pearl necklace with small beads. Ball chains are often used for dog tags, but they also achieve a timeless look.
The individual spheres connect in such a way that the chain can swivel without kinks forming. Ball chains often boast longer lengths so that wearers can pull them off the head without a connector.
Bar and Link Chains
Bar and link chains consist of a patterned series. This includes straight or curved links in the shape of a bar that connects via circular or oval links. The distinctive design presents a visually intriguing element.
However, bar and link chains may be less sturdy than other chains as the connecting links are small compared to the bars. Accordingly, it is wise to wear small or lightweight pendants with this chain style.
Cable Chains
You’re likely familiar with the design of this chain from anchor chains found on ships.
The cable chain is a miniature version of this, consisting of round or oval interlocking links of equal size. Cable chains are one of the most popular chain styles and offer a classic, traditional look.
Curb Chains
This chain design comprises a series of uniform round or oval, curved links. These are twisted in such a way that they lay flat on any surface. The beveled edges of the links help to catch and reflect the light. This design is common for men’s necklaces.
Saturn Chains
The Saturn chain is created from small, round links interspersed at equal intervals with tiny beads. This adds a visually engaging element and a touch of texture to the necklace.
These are just some of the styles popular today and can be found amongst the 17 best-selling chains.
Choosing the Right Length for Your Chain
The best chain to wear with your pendant should also feature the correct length. This comes down mostly to the preference of the wearer, but there are some guidelines to consider.
Larger pendants can be worn on long chains as well as short chains, as long as the chosen style is strong enough to hold it. Lighter weight pendants are better suited to short chains, as the smaller design might get lost on a longer chain.
The pendant might also risk getting caught in clothing, which could risk breakage. Long chains are suited to larger pendants with droplet designs, as well as necklaces with much movement such as tassels and charms.
Younger wearers often suit shorter lengths with regular or small pendants, whereas slightly longer chains are suited to those with larger frames.
A longer chain also makes it easier to pull the necklace on without a connector, which may be a deciding factor for anyone that likes to wear necklaces casually or throw them on over other outfits.
You may wish to consider various chain lengths if you are layering necklaces. In this case, mixing up chain styles and sizes can create a visually interesting and textured look.
You should consider the neckline of your outfit and keep your frame in mind. If your neck measures differently to the average 14-15 inches for an adult woman, you should add or subtract length from the chain as necessary.
How the Length of the Chain Usually Corresponds With the Style of Necklace:
We’ll start with the shorter chain lengths and work upwards from there:
- Fourteen inches: This is a choker length necklace. These hug the neck tightly and are often created with satin or velvet ribbons.
- Sixteen inches: These necklaces are collar length and sit on the hollow at the base of your neck. This empathizes the neckline and is flattering to anyone with slim or medium frames.
- Eighteen inches: These chains are called princess necklaces. These rest along the collarbone and are the most common length for women. 18-inch chains are a popular choice for adding pendants, as these will hang over the crew neck.
- 24 inches: These are a more dramatic length that falls to the sternum
Lastly, 30-36 inch-long chains are called opera length necklaces. They hang below the bust and are usually reserved for pearl necklaces or those with heavy beads. They can be worn long as-is or wrapped around twice for a double-stranded style.
Choosing the Thickness of Your Chain
Chain thickness is generally measured in millimeters. The key with the thickness of the chain is to maintain an aesthetic that draws attention to the pendant. A chain that is too bulky may distract from the design.
However, the thicker the chain, the sturdier it is. Before making your final choice, you’ll need to draw into consideration how often and where you’ll wear the necklace.
Ready to Pick the Best Chain to Wear With a Pendant?
As you can see, no matter your pendant, there’s a great chain style to go with it. If this article has prompted you to find the best chain to wear with a pendant, feel free to browse through our collection. Happy shopping!