10 BEST CHAIN STYLES FOR JEWELRY MAKING
Are you in a chain rut?
Try a different type of chain in your jewelry designs or a combination of multiple styles of chains in one piece to easily update your work.
You can create many lengths and styles of necklace, bracelet or anklet with unfinished chain.
Read on to discover our top 10 Best Chain Styles, along with design ideas to inspire your creativity.
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1. CABLE CHAIN
Cable Chain is a classic and versatile style of chain characterized by uniform, interconnected round or oval links that are interlocked end-to-end, creating a strong and timeless design.
This chain style is named after the robust chains used for ship anchors and is a popular choice for various jewelry applications.
The defining feature of a cable chain is the consistent shape and size of its links, which connect horizontally and vertically to form a continuous, basic open-link structure.
Cable chains can be made from round wire, flattened wire, or feature elongated links, such as in a Drawn Cable or Flat Cable chain.
High-quality cable chains typically have soldered links, which add strength and prevent breakage.
This chain style is well-suited for supporting pendants, making charm bracelets, or layering with other chains due to its strength, flexibility, and simple design.
The popularity of cable chains can be attributed to their versatility, durability, and timeless style.
The robust, connected link structure makes them very durable, while their classic appearance suits modern and minimalist designs.
Additionally, the basic design of cable chains makes them relatively easy to repair, further contributing to their popularity.
As a result, cable chains are a reliable and stylish choice for various jewelry applications, including pendant necklaces, layering chains, charm bracelets, and earring tassels.
2. CURB CHAIN
Curb Chain is characterized by interlocking oval or round links that are twisted and flattened to lie flat against the skin, creating a smooth and streamlined appearance.
This design allows the chain to drape comfortably, making it suitable for a range of jewelry applications, from delicate layering to bold statement pieces.
While often referred to interchangeably with Cuban chains, curb chains typically feature more elongated and flattened links compared to the rounder and chunkier links of Cuban chains.
The key characteristics of curb chains include their interlocking links, which are designed to connect and hold together in a secure and continuous length.
Each link is twisted and flattened to create a sleek and low-profile surface, allowing the chain to lie smoothly against the skin.
The intertwined links provide a strong and durable construction, making curb chains suitable for various styles and pendant weights.
Curb chains are available in different variations, including diamond-cut surfaces that add sparkle and reflective appeal, as well as double curb styles that feature two sets of interlocked links for a more substantial look.
They also come in various thicknesses, ranging from thin chains for delicate looks to wider and heavier chains for statement pieces and pendants
In terms of applications, curb chains are a versatile choice for both necklaces and bracelets, offering a classic and refined look.
Thicker curb chains are ideal for creating bold and eye-catching styles, while thinner chains are excellent for creating delicate, layered jewelry combinations.
Additionally, wider and stronger curb chains are well-suited to hold heavier pendants, making them a practical and stylish option for pendant jewelry
3. ROLO CHAIN
Rolo Chain, also known as a Belcher Chain, is a type of jewelry chain featuring symmetrical, round or oval, interlocking links that are often constructed from half-round wire.
This design gives the chain a flatter inner surface and a sturdy appearance.
The chain's defining feature is its symmetrical links, which are typically round or oval in shape and joined in a simple alternating sequence.
The use of half-round wire in Rolo chains provides a heavy appearance, with a flat interior and a rounded exterior.
This construction results in a chain with a clean, sturdy, and solid look that is well-suited for showcasing pendants or for layering with other chains.
The robust structure of Rolo chains makes them a durable choice for everyday wear, and their simple yet strong design is versatile enough to be used in a variety of jewelry applications.
Rolo chains can feature variations such as oval links or box-like configurations, and some links may have patterns or diamond cuts.
Overall, the chain's versatility, sturdiness, and aesthetic appeal make it an excellent choice for both men's and women's jewelry, whether used to showcase pendants or as a standalone piece.
4. SNAKE CHAIN
Snake Chain is characterized by its flexible and fluid design, achieved through the tight weaving of small, curved metal plates that form a smooth, continuous tube with a scaly texture.
This unique construction creates a sleek and comfortable surface, allowing for a fluid drape that is ideal for both standalone wear and displaying pendants.
The chain's flexibility enables it to bend and move easily, making it a versatile choice for various jewelry applications.
Its smooth surface and fluid design make it particularly well-suited for minimalist necklaces and bracelets, as well as for showcasing single pendants without bulk or tangles.
Additionally, snake chains can be layered with other chains to create complex and statement-making designs, further highlighting their versatility in jewelry making, including necklaces, bracelets, and anklets.
5. BALL CHAIN
Ball Chain consists of small metal spheres connected by short wire lengths. Its minimalist design and flexibility make it suitable for various applications, including pendant necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and keychains.
The chain's low-profile appearance allows it to complement pendants without drawing attention away from them.
Ball chains are available in a range of materials, such as stainless steel, silver, and gold, offering options for different jewelry styles and budgets.
The chain's specialized clasp, which snaps over the end ball, provides a secure and convenient closure.
Additionally, ball chains can be easily cut to desired lengths and finished with various connectors, including traditional clasps or decorative wire-wrapped ends.
The flexibility and adjustability of ball chains make them ideal for creating comfortable and customizable jewelry pieces.
Some designs, known as "satellite chain," alternate between small balls and elongated links, creating a delicate and textured effect.
Overall, ball chains are a popular choice for jewelry makers due to their simplicity, durability, and ease of use.
6. SINGAPORE CHAIN
Singapore Chain is a durable and elegant jewelry chain featuring a twisted and braided design with interlocking links that form a diamond-shaped pattern.
Its unique structure maximizes reflective shine, giving it a delicate yet fluid appearance.
The chain's sparkle is enhanced by its flattened, diamond-cut links that catch and reflect light from multiple angles.
The Singapore chain's versatility makes it suitable for daily wear, and it can be worn alone or paired with small pendants or charms.
Despite its substantial appearance, the chain is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to wear and often more affordable than heavier chain options.
Its intricate design allows for fluid movement, creating a dynamic effect when worn.
In jewelry making, the Singapore chain is a popular choice for creating timeless and elegant pieces, including standalone necklaces, pendants, and bracelets.
Its reflective qualities make it an excellent base for showcasing pendants, and its fluid movement makes it well-suited for layering with other chain styles.
When working with Singapore chains, it's essential to consider the difference between hollow and solid links, as solid chains are stronger and more durable, making them a better choice for heavy pendants.
7. FIGARO CHAIN
Figaro Chain features a repeating pattern of one elongated oval link alternating with two or three smaller, circular links.
This rhythmic design creates a visually appealing contrast that catches the light, making it a popular choice for various jewelry pieces.
The chain's design is often based on a curb chain, with links that lie flat, and it is available in different metals to suit various jewelry styles.
The Figaro chain's unique pattern adds visual interest and sparkle, making it suitable for both men's and women's jewelry.
It can be worn alone or used to showcase pendants, and its versatility allows it to be incorporated into various design aesthetics.
Jewelry makers can purchase Figaro chain in bulk and customize it by adding charms or pendants to its links, making it a great base for creating custom jewelry pieces.
The chain's distinctive design element can be used as a focal point or complementary element in layered jewelry looks, and its availability in different metals provides options for various budgets and design preferences.
8. ROPE CHAIN
Rope Chain is characterized by its intricate, twisted pattern formed by interlocking links.
This design creates a distinctive, textured look that adds sophistication and visual interest to a piece.
The chain's interwoven nature makes it strong and flexible, ideal for withstanding daily wear while maintaining its shape.
Rope chains are available in various metals and finishes, ranging from fine and delicate to thick and bold.
They can be crafted from materials such as sterling silver, gold, and stainless steel, and may feature a diamond-cut finish for added luxury.
The chain's unique texture and durability make it suitable for standalone wear or pairing with pendants or charms.
In jewelry making, rope chains can be used to create statement pieces or layered with other chains or jewelry for a more complex design.
Their robust and attractive design allows them to be worn alone, while their texture and dimension complement pendants and charms.
Overall, rope chains offer a sturdy and eye-catching option for various jewelry applications, including necklaces, bracelets, and anklets.
9. BOX CHAIN
Box Chain, also known as a Venetian or Book Chain, features interconnected square-shaped links that form a sleek, sturdy, and flexible design.
Its geometric shape and flat sides reflect light beautifully, creating a desirable sparkle that enhances its appeal.
The chain's durable construction and rugged design make it a versatile choice for various jewelry pieces, including necklaces and bracelets.
The box chain's unique design allows it to drape well and remain flexible, making it suitable for wear alone or with pendants.
Its modern and chic vibe lends itself to both casual and formal wear, and its ability to be layered with other necklaces or used as a base for pendants and charms adds to its versatility.
The chain's name originates from its distinctive box-shaped links that are seamlessly joined together, creating a boxy appearance that is both stylish and sophisticated.
10. SERPENTINE CHAIN
Serpentine Chain features S-shaped links that create a smooth, silky, and polished surface.
Its unique design allows for extreme flexibility and bendability, giving it a flowing appearance.
The chain's minimalist aesthetic makes it suitable for both casual and formal wear, and its smooth surface reflects light well.
Serpentine chain is versatile and can be worn alone as a statement piece or paired with pendants and charms.
Its minimal design ensures that it complements the focal point without overwhelming it.
Additionally, the chain's smooth profile makes it ideal for layering with other chains, reducing the likelihood of tangling.
Available in various metals and finishes, including stainless steel, sterling silver, and gold, serpentine chains offer a range of options for different jewelry styles.
However, due to their flexible nature, they require proper care to prevent kinking, making storage and handling important considerations for maintaining their quality and appearance.
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Use our Jewelry Chain Styles Guide to untangle any confusion over chain and learn the common names for different types of jewelry making chain.