How to Choose a Necklace: Are There Any Tips?

Chain Length

When buying a necklace, we often focus only on its design and overlook the importance of length. Here’s a guide to necklace lengths and their effects:

• ​14-inch / Choker (35cm)
  Sits above the collarbone, snug around the neck. Perfect for square necklines, off-shoulder, or strapless outfits. Not ideal for those with thicker necks.

• ​16-inch / Collarbone Chain (40cm)
  Rests near the collarbone. A versatile length that pairs well with V-necks, round necks, or square necklines. Enhances the neckline and can visually elongate the neck.

• ​18-inch / Princess Chain (46cm)
  A classic length that falls just below the collarbone. Works with high necklines, crew necks, or low-cut outfits. Great for formal occasions.

• ​20/22-inch / Matinée Chain (50-60cm)
  Lands above the chest. Ideal for elongating the neck, especially in colder seasons. Pairs well with sweaters or round-neck tops. Flattering for those with thicker necks.

Summary: Necklace length should align with your outfit’s neckline, neck proportions, and even the season. Always consider your body shape and needs before purchasing.

Necklace Styles

From the trending "Mallard style" to timeless classics, here’s a breakdown of popular necklace styles:

• ​Minimalist
  Embraces "less is more" with simple geometric designs. Effortlessly chic and perfect for everyday wear.

• ​Vintage
  A blend of history and artistry. Vintage pieces carry a nostalgic charm and are often collected as wearable art.

• ​Baroque
  Inspired by 17th-18th century European art, Baroque necklaces feature ornate, asymmetrical designs with a luxurious flair.

• ​Ins Style
  A modern Nordic-inspired trend that mixes simplicity with retro touches. Versatile and compatible with most outfits.

• ​Gender-Neutral
  Blurs traditional gender lines with bold, structured designs. Combines edginess with timeless elegance.

• ​Bohemian
  Celebrates freedom and individuality. Often incorporates vibrant colors, gemstones, or feathers for a carefree vibe.

For most people: Minimalist or Ins-style necklaces are the safest bets. They add subtle elegance without overpowering your look, making them ideal for daily wear or work.

Necklace Materials

Why do materials like "18K gold" and "sterling silver" vary so much in price? Here’s a quick guide:

1. ​Copper Alloy
   Affordable but prone to tarnishing. Often plated with gold/silver for shine.

2. ​**"Titanium Steel"**
   Actually 316L stainless steel (no titanium!). Hypoallergenic and durable. Beware of imitations labeled as 201/304 steel.

3. ​Alloy
   Mixed metals; budget-friendly but may cause allergies and fade quickly.

4. ​Silver

• 999/990 Silver: Soft, pure, but oxidizes easily.

• Sterling Silver (S925): 92.5% silver. High-quality but requires regular polishing.

• Thai Silver: Dark, rustic finish with higher durability.

• Tibetan/Miao Silver: Low silver content, mixed with copper. Features ethnic designs.

5. ​Gold-Plated
   Electroplated layer of gold over base metal. Thicker plating lasts longer.

6. ​K Gold
   Alloy of gold and other metals (e.g., 18K = 75% gold). Comes in various colors.

7. ​Gold-Filled
   Thick gold layer bonded to base metal (U.S. standard: 5% gold by weight). Durable but pricier.

Key Takeaway: Prioritize materials based on your budget, skin sensitivity, and desired longevity. For everyday wear, sterling silver or gold-plated options strike a good balance.