The Different Types of Jewellery Chains | Peoples Jewellers
  • A unique look, the box chain features squared links instead of circles or ovals. These square links are connected together creating a smooth, continuous, square-shaped chain
    BOX
    A unique look, the box chain features squared links instead of circles or ovals. These square links are connected together creating a smooth, continuous, square-shaped chain.
  • Cable Chain
    CABLE
    The cable chain is a traditional link chain common in a lot of necklace styles today. The cable chain features uniform round or oval-shaped links that are interlocked together.
  • Curb Chain
    CURB
    The curb chain is a common look for men's jewellery. It features oval-shaped links that have been flattened on the edges and slightly twisted.
  • FIGARO
    FIGARO
    Like a song, the Figaro chain has a distinct melody – two or three short links followed by one longer link. The Figaro chain comes in varying sizes and weights, and its unique look makes it a favourite choice for men’s jewellery styles
  • HERRINGBONE
    HERRINGBONE
    One of the oldest chain styles, herringbone chains date back to ancient Egypt. Herringbone chain is made of flat, slanted links joined together in a slightly angled pattern. They are usually not paired with a pendant charm, as they can kink easily.
  • MARINER
    MARINER
    This unique chain is inspired by nautical knots and anchor chains. The mariner chain is created with interlocking oval links, each centered with a solid bar.
Metal Types in Jewelry Chains

How To Measure the Width of a Chain
Most chains widths are noted in millimeters. Chains can be as fine as .05 mm or as wide as a jeweller can make them. To measure the millimeter size of a chain, lay it flat against a ruler on the metric side. Chain width and chain weight matter greatly in your chain choice. A chain may be slender width-wide, but may be made from a low gauge wire, making it delicate-yet-strong.

How Do I Find The Best Chain Length For Me?
The very best way to find what chain length works for you is to try them on and see. A chain that fits an average-sized person perfectly may seem too big on a petite frame, and too snug on a person with a larger frame. At Peoples, non-custom necklace chains are available in four industry standard lengths. Standard chain lengths are slightly different for men and women.

Metal Types in Jewelry Chains
Metal Types in Jewelry Chains
There are many different metals used in making chains for jewellery, however, we’re going to look at only the most common choices. Gold is a favorite metal found in chains. It’s a durable and available in a white, rose and yellow colours. Because gold is so soft, it is mixed with other metals, like silver, copper or zinc to form an alloy. Gold content is measured in karats.

• 10 karat gold contains 41.7% gold and 58.3% alloyed metals.
• 14 karat gold contains 58.8% gold and 41.2% alloyed metals.
• 18 karat gold contains 75% gold and 25% alloyed metals.
• 22 karat gold contains 91.6% gold and 8.4% alloyed metals.

Sterling silver is a durable metal with a long lifespan. Sterling silver is a mixture of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper and is found in many jewellery styles today. Sterling silver is an affordable alternative to white or rhodium-plated gold.
Platinum is a durable, bright white metal. It is also rare and costly. Platinum may be found in very fine jewellery pieces. It wears well and is hypoallergenic.
Stainless Steel is an alloy of iron and two or more base metals, like nickel, zinc or copper. It’s called “stainless” steel because it will not tarnish or corrode. Stainless steel chain is a popular choice for men’s jewelry.
Titanium is a newer metal that is completely hypoallergenic. Titanium if one of the strongest metals around and is found most often in men’s jewellery. Titanium chain is perfect for those with metal allergies.

There are other metals used to make chains, including copper, brass, bronze as well as blended metal alloys. However, these are the metals most commonly found in fine jewellery styles.

Chains From Peoples Are a Great Look Anytime While Peoples Jewellers carries a great selection of chains, there are many other styles of chains available that are not listed here. You can visit your local Peoples Jewellers retail store to shop and try on their selection of chains to find the style and length that works for you. Gold and sterling silver chains are a luxurious look and your jewellery consultant will help you find a style that works within your budget. Or, you can view an expanded assortment of chains online at PeoplesJewellers.com. Either way you shop, you’re sure to find one or more chain styles to layer and love.