WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF CHAINS?
When it comes to chains, there is a lot to choose from. You could go for the big and bold statement piece or settle on something more subtle and delicate. But what type of chain should you get? Let's find out!
WHAT IS A CABLE CHAIN?
ARE CABLE CHAINS STRONG?
WHAT IS A CURB CHAIN?
ARE CURB CHAINS STRONG?
They are indeed quite strong. Depending on the type of chain material used, the strength varies. For instance, a 14K gold curb chain will be more durable than an 18K gold curb chain. The hardness of the metal depends upon the alloying metals used in karat combinations; all else being equal, the higher the karat, the softer the metal.
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).
ARE FIGARO CHAINS STRONG?
Figaro chains are exactly as durable as other curb chain styles. The long link, however, might make the chain more likely to break if it hooks on something.
WHAT IS A BALL CHAIN?
ARE BALL CHAINS STRONG?
Due to its linking mechanism, a ball chain necklace can freely swivel on itself, avoiding kinking. On the flip side, the disadvantage of this lovely chain is that it is not as strong as some of the other chains and can break relatively easily.
WHAT IS A TRACE CHAIN?
A trace chain necklace is a delicate chain style with fine and small oval-shaped links. The trace chain necklace is ideal for delicate charm necklaces with dainty, lightweight pendants. A diamond cut-trace chain features small facets on each link that add extra sparkle to your necklace. Choose a diamond-cut trace chain for added opulence when you require more glitz.
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?
They are, indeed. Rolo chains are among the strongest chain styles available. Compared to cable chains, even fine belcher chains are sturdier and heavier. This is due to the flat surface area of the links, which creates more contact points and makes it harder for the links to slide past each other.
WHAT IS A ROPE CHAIN?
ARE ROPE CHAINS DURABLE?
WHAT IS A BOX CHAIN?
ARE BOX CHAINS STRONG?
WHAT IS A SNAKE CHAIN?
ARE SNAKE CHAINS STRONG?
Snake chains are delicate necklace chains that look amazing when paired with pendants. Due to their semi-rigid structure, they don't tangle easily and don't catch on hair or other objects, which can result in breakage. Also, because each link is soldered closed, there is very little risk of the chain coming undone.
Snake chains are relatively delicate; avoiding wearing them during activities that could stress the chain, such as working out or yard work is best.
WHAT IS A WHEAT CHAIN?
ARE WHEAT CHAINS STRONG?
Wheat chains are delicate-looking, but they are actually quite strong. The woven appearance makes them less likely to kink or snag than other types of chains. And because wheat chains have four strands instead of two, they are less likely to break than rope chains.
WHAT IS A HERRINGBONE CHAIN?
ARE HERRINGBONE CHAIN NECKLACES STRONG?
Herringbone chains are one of the most delicate necklace styles, as they kink very easily because each link is bent in the middle, so over time, these links will slowly work themselves out of place. So if you're looking for a chain to last a lifetime, this isn't the style for you. However, if you are careful with your jewelry and don't mind replacing it every few years, herringbone chains are a beautiful and fashionable option.
WHAT IS AN ANCHOR CHAIN?
Anchor chains (also known as mariner chains) feature interlocking oval links with a vertical bar across the center, which keeps them from tangling or twisting.
ARE ANCHOR CHAINS STRONG?
Anchor chains are the heaviest and most durable chain style because their links tend to be thick in proportion to their size, making them a great option if you want jewelry pieces that will last a lifetime.
WHAT IS AN OMEGA CHAIN?
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.