1861COI.COM

Jewellery Chain Types

The Silver Jewellery Store is a UK based online retailer of silver jewellery. Consequently, this article uses British grammar, spelling, names and measures. However, this should present little or no problem since the wording is aimed at the layperson and the names of the chain types are fairly consistent from one English speaking country to the next. Only one word has been given its US alternative, in [brackets], and the reason for this will become obvious as you read on…

Introduction

There is no limit to the different styles of jewellery chain that a designer could create. Each design would show off a pendant, for example, in a different way. Over time certain types of chain have become firm favourites and the most popular of these are described below. But before getting to the chains themselves, we need to look briefly at what jewellery chains are made from.

Link Shapes

The links of most jewellery chains are either round or oval although, in theory at least, they could be any shape you like. The links of a box chain, for example, are square while a snake chain is so tight-linked that it appears as one continuous, sinuous thread with spiralling marks on it. The ‘links’ of a bead chain are straight pieces of wire (that may or may not be visible) joining the beads together.

Link Profiles

The links of a typical chain (i.e. ignoring box chains, snake chains and bead chains etc.) are made out of wire of various thickness. When most of us think of ‘wire’ we imagine something that, if we looked at the end of the wire, would appear circular in cross section. In the making of jewellery chains, of course, the cross section of the wire may be an oval, a half circle (complete with flat bottom), a half oval, a circle with flatten sides (as if someone had squeezed it in the jaws of a vice [vise]) or even a square.

Link Count

As its name implies, the link count of a chain is the number of links per centimetre. It takes more time and precious metal (and is thus more expensive) to make a centimetre of chain from four small links than from one large link of the same diameter wire. A similar comment can be made for bead chains where the number of beads per centimetre can significantly affect the price.

Link Combinations

There is, of course, no reason why a jewellery chain should consist of only one type of link. There are many chains that use multiple link types including odd shapes such as hearts. Any form of chain that is not one of the ‘normal’ types is generally referred to as a ‘fancy’ chain.

Popular Chain Types

Anchor

Based on the design of a ship’s anchor chain. The defining feature of this chain is the bar in the middle of each link. The version shown here uses flattened links (as if squeezed in the jaws of a vice [vise].) A variant known as Maritime has only every other link an anchor link.

Bead

There is no reason why the beads must be circular. Sausage shaped beads are also reasonably common. Different sized beads and different shaped beads can be intermingled and the length between beads, or groups of beads, can be varied in a single chain to create patterns. Bead chains are fairly expensive because of the amount of precious metal required in their making.

Belcher

A primarily British style allegedly named after Jem Belcher, an 18th century boxer from Bristol, England. The definition of what actually constitutes a Belcher chain is, at best, vague but the common thread seems to be that the links are of equal size, are either round or oval and are either oval or half oval (like a flattened D lying on its back) in cross section.

 Box

Appearing to be made from plate rather than wire, the rectangular shaped of the links are clearly the source of the chain’s name. This is a reasonably expensive type of chain due to the amount of precious metal it uses. A Box chain may also be referred to as a Venetian chain.

Byzantine

At first glance, a Byzantine chain can appear to be somewhat like a tangled mess of interwoven wires! Look closer, however, and you’ll see that there is a pattern to it all. This type of chain has a long history and at various times has been known as Idiot’s Delight, King’s Braid and Birdcage chain.

Cable

Cable chains emulate the style of the large steel chains used aboard ships, known as cables. They are usually quite chunky in appearance but lighter ones are available these days. The links are traditionally slightly oval in shape – but nothing is guaranteed!

Curb

The defining feature of a curb chain is that, when placed on a flat surface, the links lie flat. Curb chains have the greatest variety of widths of any jewellery chain ranging from just a few millimetres to a couple of centimetres. The larger variants are often used as men’s neck chains or bracelets.

Figaro

Not really a style in its own right, but a very popular variant. A Figaro chain uses a pattern of short links (usually three) followed by a long link. This pattern is repeated for the length of the chain. The name is derived from the Italian opera ‘The Marriage of Figaro’ which was in vogue at the time this style of chain became popular.

 Herringbone

The v-shaped links of this chain create the herringbone pattern from which the chain gets its name. Like the Curb chain, the links of a Herringbone chain will lie flat on a flat surface. This is the most ‘fluid’ of chain types and in it’s thinner forms can even be plaited.

Mesh

A mesh chain is made up of links that appear to be a single mesh-like structure. These chains are usually somewhat wider than normal jewellery chains, often being five or more links wide. Mesh chains can be circular, as in our picture, or flat like a tape.

Omega

The shape of the links of an Omega chain are intended to resemble the feathers of a bird emanating from the central quill. An Omega chain will naturally fall in to a circle when placed around your neck, somewhat like a flexible collarette.

Prince of Wales

A Prince of Wales chain is like a double (or even triple) chain where the links are in pairs (or even threes). This gives the impression of a chain within a chain and can produce a very stylish look. Given the ‘multiple links per link’ approach of this type of chain, it is inherently strong but also inherently expensive.

 Rolo

A Rolo chain is similar in concept to a cable chain except that it’s links are somewhat fatter and are made from half round or half oval wire, with the links themselves usually being either circular or oval. The chunkier looks of the links, combined with the use of half round/oval wire, makes for a good trade-off between physical strength, the ‘presence’ of the chain and it’s cost.

Rope

The twisted links of this chain resemble a rope and this is where it gets its name from. The links of a rope chain are not fully joined together and so it is possible that if one link fails, all the others might follow in succession! Hopefully, however, this would never happen in normal use.

Singapore

The links of a Singapore chain are joined in such a way that, even when laid out straight, the chain has a natural curve to it. This chain is normally only sold in finer diameters when, due to its natural shaping, it has a very ‘fluid’ look. A Singapore chain is sometimes called a ‘twisted curb’ chain.

Snake

So tight-linked that a Snake chain appears to be one long sinuous thread with spiral marking on it, it is clear that this chain get its name from its appearance. Snake chains are inherently strong and can range in diameter from a millimetre to being quite thick. They are an expensive chain since much time and precious metal is required for their manufacture.

Spiga

The links of this chain give the appearance of having been plaited. It is a very ’3D’ style of chain with great strength. It is, however, a reasonably expensive chain due to its complexity.

Trace

Often the simplest type of chain, but none the worse for that. Typically, circular wire is used in its manufacture and the links are very slightly oval. This type of chain can be made very fine for the more delicate pendants.

Wheat

Made from interwoven teardrop shaped links, all aligned in the same direction, this chain has a similarity to an ear of wheat. The shape of the links means that their joints act as small hinges, which means that this type of chain is not quite as flexible as some other types. What it loses in flexibility, however, it makes up for in ‘presence’.

 

About the Author

Paul Fernley is a partner in The Silver Jewellery Store, a UK based online retailer of sterling silver jewellery.

Real Collectibles by Adrienne 11.8ct Diamonite CZ Royal …

Free shipping Promotion 1pcs silver rolo chains necklace cross pendant 18″ N8 $0.99

womens silver rolo chains necklace cross heart pendant girl’s cute gift 18″ N12 $1.25

Fashion silver necklace 18inch rolo chain 2 cross pendant jewelry $0.99

Sale silver bracelet 8inch rolo chain cross pendant fashion clasp jewelry $0.99

silver Rolo chain necklace with gold color heart silver cross pendant N40 $0.01

Fashion Jewelry Silver Rolo Chain link Cross pendant Bracelet Necklace set $0.99

Pink Gold Stainless Steel Cross Charm Pendant Necklace Rolo Chain 18″ No Fading $7.99

Fashion silver necklace charms jewelry heart + cross pendant rolo chains 18inch $0.99

JAMES AVERY Sterling St. James Cross Pendant On 18” AVERY Sterling ROLO Chain $135.00

R4537 Sterling 16.40X14.65 Mm Cross Necklace Pendant Sold w/2mm 18″ Rolo Chain $69.99

ESTATE 10K/14K YG .26CTW DIAMOND CROSS PENDANT WITH 18″ ROLO CHAIN 2.6 GRAMS $119.99

Stainless Steel JESUS Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace (CLRPS27) $13.99

925 Sterling Silver Dainty & Cute Heart CZ Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace $9.99

925 Sterling Silver Dazzling 1.1 Carat CZ Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace $12.99

925 Sterling Silver Amazing 0.75 Carat CZ Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace $12.99

Cute Stainless Steel Gold & Silver Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace CRB034 $11.99

Pretty Stainless Steel CZ Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace CRB035 $11.99

Stainless Steel Gold Ion Plated Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace CRB036 $11.99

Stainless Steel Gold Ion Plated Cross Pendant w/ 18″ Rolo Necklace CRB037 $11.99

925 Sterling Silver Small & Cute Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $12.99

925 Sterling Silver Small & Cute Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $13.99

925 Sterling Silver Small & Cute Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $14.99

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Style Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP10 $10.44

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Style Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP10 $15.19

Oravo Mens Art Deco Extra Large Stainless Steel Cross Pendant with Rolo Chain $34.99

Mens 316L Stainless Steel fleur de lis Shield with Cross Pendant HP13 $15.19

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Floral Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP07 $10.44

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Floral Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP07 $15.19

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Style Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP10 $9.49

Mens 316L Stainless Steel Unique Style Cross Pendant + Option Rolo Chain HP10 $14.24

BIRKS 14K Gold Abstract Cross Pendant w/Rolo Link Chain – 35.43 Grams $1,957.00

925 Sterling Silver Lovely Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $13.99

925 Sterling Silver Lovely Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $14.49

925 Sterling Silver Lovely Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $14.99

925 Sterling Silver Majestic Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $12.99

925 Sterling Silver Majestic Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $13.49

925 Sterling Silver Majestic Multi-CZ Cross Pendant $13.99

925 Sterling Silver Angel Wings w/ Hanging Cross Pendant $29.99

925 Sterling Silver Angel Wings w/ Hanging Cross Pendant $30.49

925 Sterling Silver Angel Wings w/ Hanging Cross Pendant $31.99

925 Sterling Silver Fancy Lord’s Prayer Cross Pendant w/ Heart $27.99

925 Sterling Silver Fancy Lord’s Prayer Cross Pendant w/ Heart $28.49

925 Sterling Silver Fancy Lord’s Prayer Cross Pendant w/ Heart $28.99

925 Sterling Silver Praying Hands & Cross CZ Pendant $13.99

925 Sterling Silver Praying Hands & Cross CZ Pendant $14.49

925 Sterling Silver Praying Hands & Cross CZ Pendant $14.99

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 1 3/4 Ct. CZ Cross Pendant $14.99

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 1 3/4 Ct. CZ Cross Pendant $15.49

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 1 3/4 Ct. CZ Cross Pendant $15.99

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 2 Carat CZ Cross Pendant $19.99

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 2 Carat CZ Cross Pendant $20.49

925 Sterling Silver Stylish 2 Carat CZ Cross Pendant $20.99

Sterling Silver Small CROSS Pendant Rolo Chain Necklace $28.49

14K Solitaire Diamond Cross Pendant Necklace $89.95 Lovely cross pendant with a diamond accent and a 17′ rolo chain. Cross is approximately 9mm by 10mm. Diamond accent is approximately .02 carats..

Diamond Cross Pendant $89.99 A Lovely 14K White Gold diamond cross pendant. Comes with a 14k 17 inch White Gold rolo chain that complements the pendant very nicely. Its a perfect piece to add to your collection. The Cross is approximately 9mm in width (which is just under 3/8 of an inch) by 10mm in height (which is just over 3/8 of inch) and can be worn with any casual or formal attire..

Cross Pendant $7.99 Cross Pendant

Silver CZ Cross Charm Rolo Necklace $29.95 Silver CZ Cross Charm Includes An Adjustable 16-18 Inch Rolo Necklace (Cross Charm is 14mm in height and 12 mm in width).

Mother of Pearl Rolo Necklace $80 You can’t go wrong with this mother of pearl rolo necklace. The gold filled rolo chain shows of a darling motherof pearl pendant. This necklace fastens with a lobster claw closure.

Double Rolo Chain Statement Pendant $180 Of course you’ll make a statement when wearing this double rolo chainstatement necklace . There’s no question as to how fabulousyou’ll look in this divine piece. This necklace fastens with a lobsterclaw closure.

Kathy Ireland Jewelry Kathy Cross Pendant $1799 This stunning fashion pendant features 1/3 ctw. round shaped diamonds set in an ornate cross design. ? 18 inch rolo chain ? Set in sterling silver. ? Diamond Quality: H-I / I2 quality A piece of the Kathy Ireland? Jewelry Collection.

Amethyst Drop Rolo Necklace $125 You’ll make a big impactful statement when wearing this amethyst droprolo necklace. The heavy rolo necklace does a great jobof showcasing just how beautiful the round amethyst pendant is. Thisnecklace fastens with a lobster claw closure.

14K White Gold Engraved Heart Locket Pendant 0.8 or 20mm Height with 1.2mm Rolo Cable Chain – 18 Inches $274.95 14K White Gold Engraved Heart Locket Pendant (0.8′ or 20mm Height) with 1.2mm Rolo Cable Chain – 18′ Inches.

Jewelry – Cross Within Cross Pendant $12.99 “Pewter Cross Within Cross Pendant w/ 24″ chain”

Marsala Marcasite Cross Pendant $40 Marcasite simulated White Pearl cross pendant.

Swarovski Crystale Cross Pendant $20 Swarovski Crystale White crystal cross pendant.

1/2 ctw Diamond Cross Pendant $579 1/2 ctw Diamond Cross Pendant

1/10 ctw Diamond Cross Pendant $479 1/10 ctw Diamond Cross Pendant

Cutie Couture Child’s Cross Pendant $129 Cutie Couture Childs Cross Pendant

Silver Medium Baguette Cross Pendant $12.99 Silver medium baguette cross pendant.

14k Yellow Gold Sparkling Cross on Cross Pendant $195 This elegant cross pendant features an elevated cross of fine 14k yellow gold. Proclaim your faith with this 14k Yellow Gold Sparkling Cross on Cross Pendant.

.04ctw. Diamond Cross Pendant $299 .04ctw. diamond cross pendant set in 10KT white gold.

Fine Diamond Cross Pendant $600 .17 ctw Fine Diamond Cross Pendant. Sterling silver.

Gold Cross Pendant Necklace $156 The gold cross pendant necklace is a chicspiritual statement. The cross pendant is anchored right into the chainfrom the top and bottom. This necklace fastens with a lobster clawclosure.

Diamond Cross and Heart Pendant Necklace $119 Diamond Accent YG Cross with Heart Pendant in 10K

Cross Pendant in Sterling Silver with Chain $39.95 Cross Pendant in Sterling Silver with Chain SKU: 62QG00150

Marsala Polished Cross Pendant (RPL) $40 Polished cross pendant in sterling silver with 18in chain.

14k Yellow Gold Classic Style Medium 2.3mm Rolo Chain $165 Any pendant colleCaration will look even better when paired with this lovely chain of yellow gold. You are stunningly beautiful when you wear this 14k Yellow Gold Classic Style Medium 2.3mm Rolo Chain.

14k Yellow Gold Classic Style Medium 3.2mm Rolo Chain $305 Your beautiful pendant will always look great with this chain of fine yellow gold. You are a woman of excellent fashion see when you wear this 14k Yellow Gold Classic Style Medium 3.2mm Rolo Chain.