Necklaces may have been one of the earliest types of adornment worn by humans. They often serve ceremonial, religious, magical, or funerary purposes and are also used as symbols of wealth and status, given that they are commonly made of precious metals and stones.
A necklace consists of any type of chain or length of precious metal or gems. There are many options including a metal chain, pearl strands or solitaire pendants.
The main component of a necklace is the band, chain, or cord that wraps around the neck. These are most often rendered in precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum.
Necklaces often have additional attachments suspended or inset into the necklace itself. These attachments typically include pendants, lockets, amulets, crosses, and precious and semi-precious materials such as diamond, pearls, rubies, emeralds, garnets, and sapphires.
Solitaire pendants will show off a beautiful diamond, pearl or gemstone suspended from your choice of chain. A pearl strand is a length of closely strung pearls. Necklaces make fashionable gifts and can easily be customized.
Chain Types
There are many options of chain types to choose from and they go with everything! Consider adding a beautiful solitaire pendant to your favourite chain.
Necklaces are typically classified by length:
Collar
A collar is about 30 centimetres (12 inch) to 33 centimetres (13inch) long and sits high on the neck.
Choker
A choker is a close-fitting, short necklace, 35 centimetres (14 in) to 41 centimetres (16 in) long.
Princess necklace
A princess necklace is 45 centimetres (18 in) to 50 centimetres (20 in) long.
Matinee necklace
A matinee length necklace is 56 centimetres (22 in) to 58 centimetres (23 in) long.
Opera necklace
An opera necklace is 75 centimetres (30 in) to 90 centimetres (35 in) long and sits at the breastbone.
Rope necklace
A rope necklace is any necklace longer than opera length.
Lariat necklace
A lariat is a very long variation on the rope, without a clasp, often worn draped multiple times around the neck.
Chain Length
- 16" is considered a "Choker length" chain, sitting just above the collarbone
- 18" is a "Princess length", sitting just below the collarbone and is the most common length
- For a more dramatic length you could go with a 24" or "Opera length" chain to wear over a blouse or dress.