Gold chains are one of the most popular forms of jewelry that both men and women can wear on different occasions. They vary in weight, style, and length, and come in different percentages of gold purity. Gold chains are sold in the form of necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Because of the seemingly endless options for gold chains, it can become a challenge to actually pick the one that will fit your style.
To help quicken the experience of choosing a gold chain, consider the following when shopping for one:
- Know what you are looking for – There are different types of chains that are designed for different purposes. When looking for a gold chain that will fit your style and personality, ask yourself whether you will use it for daily wear, to hold your favorite pendant, to use only in special occasions, and so on.
Here are some of the common types of gold chains:
Ball chain – this type of chain has round beads of metal that are either connected closely together via short lengths of wire or spaced with some distance. Ball chains are typically used to hold dog tags for men.
Box chain – This is made up of square links that resemble a box, and is typically worn as a necklace that holds charms or pendants. It can also be worn as an accessory on the wrist with watches. The great thing about this type of chain is that it can easily be repaired in case the “box” breaks. Simply reattach the broken chain to the remaining links, and you’re good to go.
Cable chain – Strong and attractive, this type of chain is oval in shape, and is typically used to hang charms on. The links on cable chains are made from flattened wire or round wire. Cable chains are produced in smaller sizes for women and bigger sizes for men.
Figaro – this is another popular link chain that is perfect for use by both men and women. Figaro incorporates alternating patterns of two to three small circular links, and one longer link. It looks similar to cable chains, but the difference lies in the elongated link in the pattern.
- Consider the thickness of the chain – If you are wondering which chain is the “best” for you, the answer is that it depends on what you intend to use it for. As a general guide, try to avoid gold chains that are less than .65mm thick, as these chains are likely to break more easily. Also, keep in mind that not every gold chain is going to match the style of the pendant that you want to hang on it.
If you want a gold chain that is not too thin, but is still on the delicate side, look for one that is at least 1.25mm in circumference. Also, pay attention to the thickness of the links’ metal, and do not hesitate to ask your jeweler if the thickness is sufficient to withstand wear and tear from everyday use.
Pick the length of your chain
There are a wide variety of sizes that you can choose from when shopping for gold chains. Shorter chains will fit most women like a choker, while a 16 inches necklace will fall perfectly like a collar on the base of the neck. Gold chain necklaces that are at least 36 inches will hang below the bosom, and is a perfect accessory for elegant business attire.
Choose between solid gold chain and gold filled chain
The purity of gold is measured in terms of karats. A 24 carat gold is 100% pure gold because no other metals were used in producing it. This is what we refer to as solid gold.
Solid gold is more valuable compared with lower carat golds, but since no alloy is used to strengthen it, solid gold can prove to be very soft and less durable than a 14 karat gold chain.
On the other hand, gold filled is still composed of gold but with the addition of other metals. It’s an affordable alternative to solid gold, and is ideal for everyday wear because of its durability.If you need help in selecting a gold chain that will be best for you, you can always reach out to your favorite jewellery store like Fraser Ross to give you all the assistance you need.
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