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Different Kinds of Chains: Links, Lengths, & Styles | Guide | Kay

Different Types of Chain Jewelry

Chain jewelry may appear to be a simple jewelry staple, however there are many different chain types to learn, each with their own unique style. In this guide, you'll learn to distinguish the most common chain types, compare chain lengths, and identify different chain styles.


The choice of chain style is influenced by personal taste and lifestyle. Whether opting for a minimalist design or a bold statement piece, chains offer a versatile means of self-expression. Considering factors such as occasion, wardrobe, and individual preferences allows for a thoughtful selection that enhances personal style.

What are the Different Chain Types?

The design of the chain effects not only the overall look of the piece, but it's weight and durability. Below are some common chain types along with their defining characteristics to help you find your perfect match.

  • A silver box chain from KAY.
    Box Chain
    A box chain has square links rather than round links, creating a more boxy appearance. A thinner box chain is a popular choice for women's jewelry, and a thicker box chain is an ideal choice for men's chains.
  • Cable chains from KAY.
    Cable Chain
    A cable chain, also known as a link chain, is one of the most common necklace chain types. This strong and durable chain consists of individual oval or round links that are interlocked in an identical 90 degree pattern.
  • Cuban Link Chain from KAY.
    Cuban Link Chain
    The Cuban chain is a cousin of the curb chain, except the links are rounder, bolder and closer together. Cuban chains are an evolution of the hip hop jewelry movement that began in the late ‘70s to mid ‘80s.
  • Curb Chains from KAY.
    Curb Chain
    The curb link is a simple and classic chain design with flat, interlocking and uniform links. Curb chains with heavier, larger links tend to be popular with men. Smaller, more feminine curb links are also available.
  • Figaro Chains from KAY.
    Figaro Chain
    A figaro chain consists of flattened links that can vary in size. Usually there are 2 or 3 shorter links that alternate with a larger link. Originating in Italy, the figaro chain is popular with men and women alike.
  • Franco Chains from KAY.
    Franco Chain
    Franco chains are built with tightly interlocking V-shaped links that stay aligned, even under pressure. This design keeps the chain from twisting or breaking easily, making it a great choice for daily wear and pendants.
  • Herringbone Chains from KAY.
    Herringbone Chain
    Herringbone Chain is a classic style featuring flat chain links parallel to each other, resembling the bones of the herring fish. It is a flexible chain and its ability to lie flat means it takes the shape of the wearer’s neck.
  • Paperclip Chains from KAY.
    Paperclip Chain
    Paperclip chains are made up of long interlocking oval links reminiscent of their namesake office supply. This open, breezy chain makes a delicate statement when worn alone and ideal for layering with other necklaces.
  • Rope Chains from KAY.
    Rope Chain
    A rope chain, as its name suggests, is linked in a twisted pattern to resemble a rope. Delicate versions of a rope chain are a beautiful choice for gorgeous pendants. Heavier rope chains are often worn as statement pieces.
  • Singapore Chains from KAY.
    Singapore Chain
    A Singapore chain is made of twisted and braided fibers. This creates a delicate, yet intricate look that catches the light as you move. This chain is not only strong and simple, it is also a classic and timeless choice.
  • Snake Chains from KAY.
    Snake Chain
    A snake chain is noticeably different than most of the other chain types. A snake chain is made up of rings that fit closely together. Because of this, the chain has a similar appearance to a tube and the texture of snakeskin.
  • Wheat Chains from KAY.
    Wheat Chain
    A wheat chain, also called a spiga chain, is created with four strands of twisted oval links. The links in a wheat chain are woven together, creating a gorgeous and eye-catching chain.

How to Choose the Right Chain Length

Choosing the right chain length is all about understanding how you want yo style your chain. Do you want a timeless statement piece? Or to layer multiple chains and other necklaces for a dramatic effect? Deciding how you want to wear your chain gives the context needed for selecting the proper length.

Common Chain Jewelry Materials

  • Three gold chains laying side by side from KAY.
    Gold Chains
    The most popular and classic metal choice for chains, gold offers an undeniable statement. While yellow gold is most common, chains are also made in white and rose gold.
  • Three different style sterling silver chains from KAY.
    Sterling Silver Chains
    Sterling silver chains balance quality and price. Sterling silver is a precious metal like gold, but allows for a more flexible price range depending on the weight of the chain.
  • A matching stainless steel, chain bracelet and chain necklace from KAY.
    Stainless Steel Chains
    A great choice for their affordability, stainless steel chains are often coated to resemble their yellow gold counterparts though they come in more unique colors such as black and blue.

Difference Between Solid & Hollow Chains

At first glance, determining if a chain is solid gold or hollow may not be obvious. Whether a chain is solid or hollow depends on the metal and process used to create the final piece. "Solid" gold chain refers to chains which have been made with minimum 10K gold and do not involve plating of any kind. "Hollow" chains are exactly as the name implies: a hollow shell of metal, often gold, that creates the effect of a heftier chain while using less material thus typically lower cost then their solid counterparts.


Hollow chains accessibility make them ideal for casual wear while solid gold chains hint of luxury is perfect for dressier occasions.

Men's & Women's Chain Jewelry

Chain Necklaces & Chain Bracelets

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