WHAT MATTERS THE MOST WHEN BUYING A CHAIN?

If you’re in the market for a neck chain, there are many things to consider.

I have written a lot about chains, created a chain buying guide, but I thought I’d touch up on the most important factors to look for. That way, you’re sure to get a chain that’s not only beautiful, feels great on the neck, but is durable and won’t cause allergic reactions.

So let’s get started…

The most important aspects of buying a chain:

1. The metal of the chain:

This is so important… What’s the metal, or karat stamp of the chain? For most people are allergic to nickel which is commonly found in plated chains, or gold overlay chains. It can cause allergic reactions to your skin and leave rashes. Buying a chain that’s lower quality gold (like 10k), or buying sterling silver chains, copper chains, costume chains, or hollow chains, can have lasting effects. It’s wise to stick with metals like: 14k Gold, Stainless Steel, Titanium, and Platinum.

2. The length of the chain:

Try the chain on. Where does it fall on your neckline? Determining the proper length is essential for the desired effect. The most common chain length is 18″-20″ for women, and 20″-24″ for men. But longer or shorter will depend on what you’re wearing it (a choker is usually 16″) with and if you are layering it with other chains.

3. The style of the chain:

The best types of chains, and most popular styles, are box chains, ropes and links. These are classic, and will never go out of style. Chains like the cuban, figaro, mariner, wheat are the best selling link chains.

4. The smoothness of the chain:

How does it feel on your neck? Run your fingers over the chain. Does it feel smooth? Or does it catch? If it has points or edges, or sharpness, it will probably snag your clothing (especially sweaters) and may even scratch your skin.

5. The durability of the chain:

Durability is determined by 2 things: 1) what the metal is, 2) how thick the chain is. Thicker chains obviously are more durable, but they will also feel heavier on the neck. Deciding on the proper thickness will help the chain last a lifetime. Other things to consider are the kinking point. Meaning, if the chain gets bent in half (say you wear it while you sleep), is it going to kink up and ruin the chain? Herringbone chains are known for bending, breaking, and never laying flat. I would avoid them at all cost. Link chains are the most durable, and tend to never kink or break. Rope chains can unravel and sometimes the pieces of intertwined gold may catch on your clothes and need to be soldered back down to remain secure.

Link chains are always your best bet when looking for a chain.

Lastly… Look at the clasp!

Lobster clasps are the best type of clasp to purchase (like the clasp shown in the photo above). Little spring rings are not. Spring rings (the clasps that look like a circle) tend to get pulled, open up, and often loses your chain or pendant.

So the best advise I can give:

Buy link chains, get 14k gold, and purchase chains with a durable lobster clasp. Just like these link chains here at Amazon.

Cheers! :)