WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHAINS?



When it comes to making a fashion statement, chains are an essential accessory. Whether you want something simple and elegant or something bold and eye-catching, there are plenty of different types of chains to choose from! Here we’ll take a look at the different styles available, so you can find one that suits your style.


 

WHAT IS A CABLE CHAIN?


One of the most classic chain styles, cable chains feature a symmetrical design with a consistent level of thickness and link sizes, connected one after the other. The cable links are either made from round or flattened wire, but the link is always the same thickness. Cable chains also feature uniform oval or round links with a single join on each side.


The trombone and paperclip chains are variations of the cable chain, with elongated oblong links that resemble their namesakes, sometimes alternating with smaller round links. This design is also known as a ring and connector chain.



ARE CABLE CHAINS STRONG?


Cable chains are, and this is made possible by their simple design. They may not appear as strong as rolo chains, but they are highly dependable and durable. Because they don't easily break, they are the preferred necklace chains for many jewelry aficionados.



WHAT IS A CURB CHAIN?


A curb chain is a type of cable chain with twisted links that are usually diamond cut to lay flat and uniform. They are extremely adaptable and come in a variety of thicknesses. The Cuban chain variation has more closely packed links and is typically heavier than the original of the same length. A double link or parallel chain necklace is another variation, and often the foundation for a charm bracelet.


A twisted curb chain is popular in fine gauges at around 1mm and thicker chains, ideal for statement necklaces.



ARE CURB CHAINS STRONG?


Curb chains are indeed quite durable. The strength varies depending on the type of chain material used. For example, a 14K gold curb chain will last longer than an 18K gold curb chain. The alloying metals employed in karat combinations determine the metal's hardness; all other things being equal, the higher the karat, the softer the metal and the more prone it is to scratches.

 


WHAT IS A FIGARO CHAIN?


Figaro chains are very similar to curb or cable chains. They're built the same way, with an elongated link inserted in the pattern every 2-4 regular links. The only difference is that a Figaro chain has alternating link sizes that create a pattern. A popular design is 3 short round links, 1 long. Most Figaro chains are curb chains (meaning each link lies flat), but some are curb (simple circles).


Some specialty chain stores exchange a "long link" with a different shape, such as a large heart or diamond, to add more interest to the chain. This is especially popular with the younger generation of consumers.



ARE FIGARO CHAINS STRONG?


Figaro chains have the same level of durability as other types of curb chains. But if the chain snags on something, the long link in the pattern can make it more likely to break.



WHAT IS A BALL CHAIN?


Ball chains are popular pendant chains because they have more texture and pattern than cable chains while remaining thin enough to pass through a bail.


Ball chains consist of solid or hollow metal spheres connected by connector bars (short lengths of wire). This style is reasonably fluid but can be more constrictive than other classic chains because the spheres don’t flex as much.



ARE BALL CHAINS STRONG?


Thanks to its linking structure, a ball chain necklace can freely swivel on itself without kinking. On the other hand, this exquisite chain has the drawback of being weaker than some of the other chain styles and can break very easily.



WHAT IS A TRACE CHAIN?


The trace chain, also known as an anchor or cable chain, is a fine and delicate chain style formed from a thin wire fashioned into uniform oval or round links. Trace chains typically have a width of 2mm or less and are lightweight, though they can have different wire thicknesses.



WHAT IS A BELCHER CHAIN?


Belcher or rolo chains are a popular cable chain variation that features round links on the outside and flat on the inside. Belcher chains with rounded links on both the outside and inside are sometimes referred to as rolo chains.


Belcher chains consist of D-shaped links that are relatively broad and uniform in size and shape. The links alternate 180 degrees when pulled, giving the belcher chain a classic, timeless look and feel. In contrast, round belcher chains are slightly different in that the links are entirely round rather than D-shaped.


Round belcher chains are popular in more delicate necklace chains. The smooth, round links are less likely to catch on clothing and are generally more delicate looking than traditional belcher chains.


A square belcher chain consists of flat, D-shaped links arranged in a square pattern. This type of chain is less flexible than a round belcher chain and is great for pendants and charms because it will lay flat against the body.



ARE BELCHER CHAINS STRONG?


Certainly, belcher chains are strong. One of the strongest types of chains is the belcher chain style, also known as a rolo chain. Even fine belcher chains are stronger and heavier than cable chains. This is because of the flat surface area on the links, which creates more contact points and makes it more difficult for the links to glide past each other.



WHAT IS A ROPE CHAIN?


A rope chain is extremely popular and available in a wide range of styles and weights. It consists of uniform links connected to two other links at a time. This design adds a natural twist to the chain.


Numerous designs feature intricate and complex versions of the classic rope chain. The French rope chain is a variation of this style that has a tight, twisted appearance, is very sturdy, and is typically heavier in weight than the classic rope chain.


In addition, delicate rope chains are especially popular and often used in layering necklaces because they are beautiful and add extra interest to a look! The metal segments twist around each other and reflect off the light to give it a shiny textured look.



ARE ROPE CHAINS DURABLE?


Rope chains are incredibly durable - maybe more so than many other types of jewelry! They're a great choice for everyday wear because their flexible, textural construction makes them resistant to wear and tear.


Rope chains are also very durable because they are one of the heaviest chain styles available. They are ideal for wearing with hefty pendants because the chains can firmly support them. As rope chains do not easily separate, thanks to their twisted frame. So, if you're looking for an accessory that will last forever (or close to it!), rope chains are the way to go.


 

WHAT IS A BOX CHAIN?


The box chain features cubed links made from flattened, round wire that are arranged in a box-like pattern. These little cubes are then connected to one another through soldering to create a sturdy, smooth chain.


Because the box chain possesses flattened wire links, which enables a much smoother surface on which a pendant may lay, it has a slim profile that makes it perfect for combining with pendants.



ARE BOX CHAINS STRONG?


Box chains are well-liked for their simple yet reliable construction. They feature interlocking links that make for a robust chain perfect for those looking for durable jewelry that can withstand everyday wear.


As box chains are sturdy, they don't break easily. If a link does break, a new one can be inserted into the pattern. To preserve the overall design, a metalsmith can also reattach the chain without replacing the broken link.



WHAT IS A SNAKE CHAIN?


Snake chains, a.k.a "Brazilian chains" in some circles, are popular for many jewelry buyers as standalone chains or paired with pendants. Snake chains get their name from their shape, resembling a slithering snake. This chain style is characterized by its small interlocking links, which lay flat against the skin, making it particularly comfortable to wear.


The most well-liked rounded chain style is probably the snake chain due to its sleek and fluid design. Each link contains a little point in the middle that, when connected, forms a chevron pattern resembling snakeskin. Omega chains and snake chains both have a similar profile; however, snake chains are significantly more fluid, and therefore, they are less likely to kink with time.


While we're discussing kinking, it's crucial to point out that pulling on a snake chain will never help to straighten its form. This pulling action will only kink the chain further, making wearing it in the future more challenging, if not impossible.



ARE SNAKE CHAINS STRONG?


Snake chains are delicate necklace chains that look amazing when paired with pendants. Because of their semi-rigid construction, they don't tangle easily or catch on hair or other objects, which can lead to damage. And a chain coming undone is also extremely unlikely in this design since each link is tightly soldered shut.



WHAT IS A WHEAT CHAIN?


Unlike the other chains on this list, wheat chains consist of four strands of intertwined tear-shaped links twisted to point in a single direction, giving this chain style a slightly different appearance. Wheat chains are also known as "Spiga" chains because they resemble the common fish.


Wheat chains resemble rope chains but have a braided/woven appearance that resembles a wheat stalk (hence the name). Wheat chains are highly flexible and can be rounded or flat. Wheat chains also come in various weights and profiles, but thinner versions are ideal for use with pendants. Wheat chains are especially great for layering since they look great with other necklace styles.



ARE WHEAT CHAINS STRONG?


Although wheat chains appear delicate, they are fact, incredibly robust. They are less likely to kink or snag than other kinds of chains because of their woven appearance. Moreover, wheat chains are less likely to break than rope chains since they have four strands rather than only two.



WHAT IS A HERRINGBONE CHAIN?


Herringbone chains feature distinct, pointed links that are thin and interconnect in a fashionable pattern. The links are slightly bent in the middle to give the chain style a herringbone appearance. This flat design makes them ideal for wearing as statement pieces.


Herringbone chains have a nice balance of flexibility and rigidity, which allows them to stay in place when worn.


Herringbone chains are the only chain link style that does not look good with any pendant piece because the links are so thin and pointed that they don't lay flat against the neck, resulting in an awkward appearance.

 


ARE HERRINGBONE CHAIN NECKLACES STRONG?


Since each link in a herringbone chain is bent in the middle, its kinks easily, as the links eventually fall out of place, making herringbone chains one of the most delicate necklace styles. With that said, herringbone chains are a gorgeous and fashionable option if you are careful with your jewelry and don't mind replacing or repairing your chains every few years.



WHAT IS AN ANCHOR CHAIN?


Anchor chains, also known as mariner chains, feature interlocking oval links with a vertical bar that runs across the middle, preventing tangling or twisting.



ARE ANCHOR CHAINS STRONG?


Because their links typically tend to be thick relative to their size, anchor chains are the heaviest and most resilient chain style, making them a perfect choice if you want jewelry pieces that will last a lifetime.



WHAT IS AN OMEGA CHAIN?


Because their links typically tend to be thick relative to their size, anchor chains are the heaviest and most resilient chain style, making them a perfect choice if you want jewelry pieces that will last a lifetime.



ARE OMEGA CHAINS STRONG?


Omega chains have limited flexibility and can easily kink and bend. These necklaces have a delicate structure; if they are twisted, they can become irreparably damaged. Hence, exercise caution when dealing with your omega chains; make sure they don't snag on any of your clothing and never sleep in them, as the continuous movement from rolling around or lying down in bed could cause them to become tangled.


Omega chains can be difficult to restore after they have twisted. Sometimes, repairing omega chains might not be impossible, depending on the extent of the damage. Typically, a jeweler will cut omega chains that need straightening; they work on the chains' inner structures and outer segments to fix the kink.



WRAPPING UP


When it comes to picking the perfect chain, there are many factors to consider. The size and shape of the links, the type of metal used, and your lifestyle can all impact which type of chain is best for you. So do your research before investing in a chain so that you can get one that's both fashionable and long-lasting. Good luck!