Types Of Chain For Jewellery Making & Necklet Chain Length Guide

Key things to consider when choosing a chain for your jewellery designs

Popularity: Trace, belcher and curb chain have traditional links are are the most widely used and recognised chains for jewellery designs. If you're not sure what chain to go for, these are great basic chains to start with!

Loose or ready made: You can choose to purchase ready-made chain complete with a clasp or you can buy chain in a loose length to then add your chosen clasps and findings.

Choosing the most suitable findings: If you are making your own necklet, it is important to choose the most suitable clasp for your design. For example, if you have quite a heavy design you may wish to use a sturdy lobster clasp however if you have a light and delicate design a bolt ring may be a more suitable choice. Read more about the types of clasps available on our advice page.

Consistency: If you are using sterling silver components (clasp, jump rings, bail for example) we recommend using the same material for your chain.

Link sizes: Some chains do not have links whereas some have large links, if you wish to add wire wrapped elements and beads to your chain ensure that you choose a chain that offers large enough links to easily add these features.

Fine, medium or heavy chains: It's all about balance! It's best to choose a fine chain for simple and lightweight pieces and then a heavy chain for designs that require more strength, such as a design featuring a large pendant.

Choosing the most suitable length: Check out our handy necklet chain length guide at the bottom of the page! There are many necklet chain lengths available and this does come down to the personal preference of the wearer, however there are a few practical things to consider too. For example, larger pendants are usually suitable for both short and long chains whereas a delicate, lightweight design is usually more suited to a shorter length of chain - if a small pendant was on a longer chain there is a risk of it getting caught and broken. It's also good to keep the wearer in mind to consider what length would compliment them best.

What style of chain do you like best? Your choice of chain also comes down to personal preference and the style you have in mind but don't forget it's also important to consider that some designs will require a more suitable chain to prevent your pieces from breaking. There are so many beautiful styles of chain to choose from which are certain to add interest to your designs, so get experimenting with combinations and design something beautiful.

Discover The Most Popular Jewellery Chains Below

Chain Length Conversion Chart

All the chains we sell at Kernowcraft are sold in centimetre lengths, but for those of you who prefer to work in inches, here's our quick and simple conversion list to make things that little bit easier for you!