The different types of necklace chains explained

A staple in your jewellery box, a chain necklace can be worn alone, used to anchor your favourite pendant or as a starting point to stack your current collection. From chunky links to simple beaded styles, finding the right type of necklace chain can elevate your layering game.

Gold Plated Chain Necklace

Rope chain

Mimicking the shape of a rope, this chain is made from twisted metal links that are woven together tightly, resulting in a textured finish. A rope chain with no pendant makes a great layering piece, pair with a chunky necklace for an impactful look.

Gold Chain Necklace

Box chain

With a chunkier design than a snake chain necklace, a box chain necklace is formed from interconnected links that make a smooth, continuous chain that is flattened to make a square shape. Box chains are a durable option that will stand the test of time - they look great as a choker style that sits close to your neck.

Cheetah Pendant Necklace

Figaro chain

With three smaller links interspersed by a larger, oval link, the Figaro chain makes more of a statement than its cable or curb siblings. A contemporary addition to your collection, we recommend wearing this type of silver or gold chain necklace alone for a bold statement.

Gold Petal Necklace

Curb chain

A curb chain is formed from interlocked oval links and looks similar to a cable chain. However, this style is designed to sit flat against your neckline. Pair with a curb chain bracelet for a coordinated look.

Quartz Gold Plated Necklace

Ball chain

Named after the rounded balls that are fixed along a chain, a ball chain necklace can bring a casual vibe to your everyday attire. If you’re looking for a delicate pairing, team with a dainty necklace.

Black Bead Short Necklace

Rolo chain

Rounded on the outside and flattened on the inside, the circular links in this chain are completely symmetrical to create a uniform look. Ideal for attaching charms and pendants for a personalised finish, the rolo chain is an ideal choice as a layering necklace.

A gold drop necklace with two purple gems

Bar Drop Long Necklace

Cord chain

A cord chain is formed from three individual chain strands which are twisted together to create one chain. Perfect for friendship bracelets and necklaces, choosing a cord chain in bright and bold hues is an easy way to add a pop of colour to your outfit.

Mesh chain

Mesh chains are knitted around a central spindle, giving it an entirely different look to cable, curb, lariat or cord chain. Whether the spindle is thicker or thinner determines the width of these chains whilst the tighter the weave determines the firm or bendiness of the chain itself.

Lariat chain

Created from a singular chain, lariat necklaces usually have a decorative drop at either end, such as a T bar and ring, animal charm or semi precious stone, to fasten the necklace securely and with style.

Silver plated necklace with a celestial charm and bar

Celestial Silver Plated Necklace

Link chain

Featuring interlocked links to create a chain, the link necklace is effortless to style alone or stack alongside other pieces from your collection. From chunky to subtle, oval to circular, the links in this style are all that matter.

Pendant Chain Necklace

Cable chain

Usually featuring interlocked oval links of the same size, a cable chain is the most versatile of all the necklace chain types. Choose a style with an oversized pendant or add a personalised charm.

The different types of necklace chains explained

United Kingdom

Ireland