A Complete List of the Different Types of Chains for Necklaces

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Plus, learn how to choose the perfect chain type for you
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Necklace chains come in a wide variety of styles, making them a great way to accessorize and style your outfits. But what are all the different chain types called, and more importantly, what do they look like? In this article, we’ll break down all the most popular necklace chain styles, including popular and classic chains, textured chains, round chains, and more. Plus, we’ll help you choose the best chain type for you. Keep reading to learn more!

Types of Necklace Chains: Chart

Types of Necklace Chain Summary
  • Cable chain
  • Belcher or rolo chain
  • Box or Venetian chain
  • Rope chain
  • Curb or Cuban link chain
  • Ball or bead chain
  • Figaro chain
  • Herringbone chain
Section 1 of 6:

Popular and Classic Necklace Chains

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  1. Step 1 Cable Chain
    The cable chain is probably the most classic, timeless, and common necklace chain. The simple chain is made up of uniform circular or oval pieces that link together, one after the other. It’s one of the most popular chains because it’s strong, durable, and flexible.[1]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
  2. Step 2 Belcher/Rolo Chain
    The belcher or rolo chain is another popular and timeless necklace chain that’s a variation of the cable chain. It’s made of wide, circular pieces that link to one another. It typically has a heavier, thicker look compared to the cable chain. The chain is also very strong and durable.[2]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
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  3. Step 3 Box/Venetian Chain
    The box or Venetian chain has a sleek, simple, and sturdy design. It’s formed from square pieces that link together, which gives the chain a flat and straight appearance. This also means it catches the light well, giving it a great sparkle. It’s fairly fluid, but not the most durable chain.[3]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
  4. Step 4 Rope Chain
    The rope chain has an intricate twisted pattern, which gives it lots of texture and sparkle. It’s similar to the cable chain, except the circular or oval pieces are connected to 2 or more other pieces (instead of just 1). This makes it a very strong and flexible chain.[4]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant, as a layering necklace, or by itself
  5. Step 5 Curb/Cuban Link Chain
    The curb or Cuban link chain is a strong and bold style that’s also completely timeless. It consists of tight and thick oval links that are then twisted so they lie flat. The curb/Cuban link is also very strong and flexible.[5]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant, as a layering necklace, or by itself
  6. Step 6 Ball/Bead Chain
    The ball or bead chain is a fluid style made of evenly spaced, spherical beads that are connected by cylindrical bars. While a classic design, it has a more casual and fun vibe than other necklace chains. It’s not a very strong chain, though.[6]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
  7. Step 7 Figaro Chain
    The figaro chain is a unique twist on the cable chain. It’s made out of links of varying sizes, usually 3 or more circular or oval pieces of the same size, followed by a long oval piece. This gives the strong, flexible chain an eye-catching look.[7]
    • Best for wearing by itself or as a layering necklace
  8. Step 8 Herringbone Chain
    The herringbone chain is thin, flat, and very flashy. It’s formed from short, trapezoidal pieces placed side-by-side, which creates an interlocking, chevron-like pattern. This means the herringbone chain is thicker than most other chains, which makes it a bold, statement-making choice. As a con, the chain isn’t very durable and can kink easily.[8]
    • Best for wearing by itself or as a layering necklace
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Section 2 of 6:

Textured Necklace Chains

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  1. Step 1 Singapore Chain
    The Singapore chain is made of flat, circular pieces that are tightly linked together. Because the links are so tightly woven, they naturally form a twisted design. However, you can relax and flatten the links. The chain is very shiny and lightweight, but not incredibly strong.[9]
    • Best for wearing with a light pendant or as a layering necklace
  2. Step 2 Wheat/Spiga Chain
    The wheat or spiga chain gets its name because it looks like a stalk of wheat. The chain is formed from several oval pieces linked together that all move in the same direction, which gives the chain a braided or woven look. It’s a flexible and strong chain, and depending on the style, can be flat or rounded.[10]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
  3. Step 3 Tinsel/Twist Chain
    The tinsel or twist chain is an eye-catching and super sparkly design that resembles strips of tinsel. It’s formed from several delicate S-shaped pieces that are linked together and then twisted. The chain is one of the more lightweight styles.[11]
    • Best for wearing with a light pendant or as a layering necklace
  4. Step 4 Margarita Chain
    The margarita chain has a unique tubular appearance that’s highly textured, sparkly, and attention-grabbing. It consists of rectangular pieces that are connected together by their longer sides, which gives it a twisted look. The only con is that it can snag your clothes or hair.[12]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
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Section 3 of 6:

Round Necklace Chains

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  1. Step 1 Snake Chain
    The snake chain has a tubular shape that makes it super sleek, smooth, and fluid. It’s made of V-shaped pieces that are tightly linked together, which gives it a similar look to a snake’s scales. It’s not the most durable style, but it’s very eye-catching.[13]
    • Best for wearing with a light pendant or as a layering necklace
  2. Step 2 Popcorn Chain
    The popcorn chain is a tubular style that’s made of flat, rounded pieces that are connected into a cylindrical shape. While the chain is on the thicker side, it’s actually lightweight because the inside is hollow. It’s very flexible, but not a strong chain.[14]
    • Best for wearing with a light pendant or as a layering necklace
  3. Step 3 Saturn/Station Chain
    The Saturn or station chain is composed of spherical beads that are evenly spaced along the chain. The chain itself can be a cable, box, or curb chain. This style is eye-catching and shiny, and quite durable, too.[15]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
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Section 4 of 6:

Flat Necklace Chains

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  1. Step 1 Paperclip Chain
    The paperclip chain is a variation of the cable chain that resembles paperclips linked together. This means that the individual pieces are long and oval-shaped, and connected one after the other. The style has a lightweight look, is very flexible, and pretty strong.[16]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  2. Step 2 Serpentine Chain
    The serpentine chain describes a variety of styles that are flat, thin, and have a sleek, interlocking design. The style is highly reflective and shiny, and fairly flexible. But, the chains aren’t the strongest. Some common styles include:
    • Cobra Chain: Made out of triangle-shaped pieces, which form a zig-zag pattern.[17]
    • S-Link Chain: Made out of S-shaped pieces that lock together.[18]
    • C-Link Chain: Made out of alternating C-shaped pieces.[19]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  3. Step 3 Omega Chain
    The omega chain is one of the flattest, sleekest, and smoothest chains. It’s made of flat, round plates that are tightly linked together over a wire mesh structure. The plates are so closely connected that there’s barely any space showing. Omega chains are strong but not very flexible.[20]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant, as a layering necklace, or by itself
  4. Step 4 Boston Link Chain
    The Boston link chain is a type of cable chain that’s been completely flattened. The long, oval pieces are compressed into a more rectangular shape, which can give this style the look of a box chain, too. It’s strong, fairly flexible, and shiny.[21]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant or as a layering necklace
  5. Step 5 Anchor/Mariner Chain
    The anchor or mariner chain is named after the style of chains commonly used to anchor boats. It’s made of oval pieces with a vertical line through the center. The pieces are either connected together or linked by a circular piece. The anchor chain is very strong and flexible, and its unique design makes it a bold statement piece.[22]
    • Best for wearing with a pendant, as a layering necklace, or by itself
  6. Step 6 Infinity/Figure-8 Chain
    The infinity or figure-8 chain is composed of long oval pieces that are twisted to cross over themselves and create an infinity or figure-8 shape. The pieces are often connected by a circular piece, but can be linked together. They’re usually flattened, too. The infinity/figure-8 chain has a lightweight look similar to the figaro and paperclip chains, and is similarly strong and flexible.[23]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  7. Step 7 Foxtail Chain
    The foxtail chain is similar to the wheat chain, as it’s composed of several oval pieces woven together. The pieces have straighter edges and are angled towards one another, though, so the foxtail chain has a more chevron-like pattern. While it lies flat, it has a textured look and is very durable.[24]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  8. Step 8 Panther Chain
    The panther chain is a super sleek and flat style that has a brick-like pattern. It’s formed from 3 or more rows of flat, rectangular pieces that are stacked halfway across the piece above and below it. The chain is very durable, and due to its thicker size, it tends to give you a bold and eye-catching look.[25]
    • Best for wearing by itself
  9. Step 9 Mesh Chain
    The mesh chain is made up of rows of circular or oval pieces that are woven together, which makes it look like a piece of mesh material. The chain is often kept flat, but it can be formed into a round, tubular shape. It has a thicker look, but is lightweight and flexible.[26]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  10. Step 10 Scroll Link/Snail Chain
    The scroll link or snail chain is an intricate but delicate-looking style. It’s made out of long, oval pieces that have a decorative swirl in the center. The pieces are simply linked together. The chain is similar to a cable chain, so it’s quite strong and flexible.[27]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
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Section 5 of 6:

Unique Necklace Chains

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  1. Step 1 Byzantine Chain
    The Byzantine chain is one of the boldest and most intricate-looking designs. It’s formed from oval pieces that are connected together by folded oval links. The pattern is pretty tight and dense, so the chain has a heavier look. It’s also fairly strong.[28]
    • Best for wearing by itself
  2. Step 2 San Marco Chain
    The San Marco chain is a bold and thick chain that makes a big statement. It’s made out of curved, semi-circle pieces that are connected end-to-end in a line, which gives it a coiled or curly appearance. Due to the curved shape of the links, it’s often called a macaroni chain. The pieces themselves are usually hollow, so they can be easily dented.[29]
    • Best for wearing by itself
  3. Step 3 Bismark Chain
    The bismark chain is a wide, flat, and intricately woven chain. It’s formed from 2 or more rows of flat, oval pieces that are connected by long, vertical pieces. Depending on their width, they can be heavy and bold or quite delicate-looking. They’re also fairly strong and durable.
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  4. Step 4 Bar Chain
    The bar chain is a very unique style that makes a bold and artsy statement. It’s made out of long and rectangular bar-shaped pieces, which are either connected together or linked by circular pieces. They’re unusually thin and pretty strong, but not the most flexible.[30]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  5. Step 5 Barleycorn Chain
    The barleycorn chain is made out of tapered, tear-drop shaped pieces that are linked together. The pieces can have an open design or be filled in for a more solid look. It’s a very unique and uncommon style, so it definitely makes a statement.[31]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  6. Step 6 Peanut Chain
    The peanut chain is a variation of the paperclip and cable chain styles. The pieces are long and oval but crimped in the middle to give them a curved, peanut-like shape. This gives the style a more decorative and textured look. It’s also lightweight and strong.[32]
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
  7. Step 7 Filigree Chain
    The filigree chain refers to any necklace chain that has an ornamental and swirling design using fine wire. The chains are often made out of oval pieces that have lots of curls and curves in the center. The filigree chain is a showstopping style that can be very dainty and elegant or bold and flamboyant. It’s fairly strong and can be flexible.
    • Best for wearing as a layering necklace or by itself
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Section 6 of 6:

How to Choose a Necklace Chain

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  1. 1
    Consider your style and the look you want to achieve. Every necklace chain has a different design and vibe, so simply find one that you like and that matches your personal style. For instance, cable and rolo chains are great choices for a simple and understated look, while curb, Byzantine, and San Marco make bold statements.
    • Take the clothes you typically wear into account, too. Bold statement chains look great with open necklines and simple styles, says personal wardrobe stylist Katie Quinn.[33] On the other hand, more delicate chains flatter high necklines and embellished tops.
  2. 2
    Determine if you want to wear it on its own or with a pendant. Some chain styles look great with a pendant on them, while others are meant to be worn on their own. If you want the pendant to be the statement piece, you might want to go with a cable, rope, or Singapore chain. But, if you want the chain to be the statement, you might want to get a panther, herringbone, or San Marco chain.
  3. 3
    Think about how often you’ll wear the chain. Do you want this to be an everyday piece or a necklace you wear more occasionally? An everyday necklace experiences more wear and tear, so you might want to get a more durable chain. If you don’t plan on wearing the necklace as often, more delicate chains are a good choice.
    • What are the strongest types of necklace chains? Cable chains, including their variations like the curb, rope, and figaro, are some of the strongest and most durable necklace chains. Box chains and anchor/mariner chains are also very durable.
    • In general, chains with solid links are more durable than chains with hollow links.
  4. 4
    Consider what other necklaces you might wear with it. Layering necklaces is a great way to create a cohesive and unique look. Think about the necklaces you have in your collection and what would look good with them. If you already have a textured chain, you might want to go with a sleek, flat chain. Or, if you have a tightly linked dainty piece, you might want to get a wider chain with a more open look.[34]
  5. 5
    Choose a length and thickness that match your style. Once you have a chain (or a few!) that you like, pick a length and thickness that complements your vibe, lifestyle, and the other necklaces you’ll wear it with. For instance:
    • Choker styles emphasize the neck and draw the eye up, while longer styles draw the eye down to accentuate your collar bones and help elongate your body, says fashion stylist Kalee Hewlett.[35]
    • For the most part, shorter lengths flatter people who are shorter than average height, while longer lengths flatter people who are taller than average.
    • In general, thicker chains are stronger and more durable than very thin chains.
    • Thick chains tend to give a bolder and more eye-catching look, while thinner chains have a daintier and more delicate vibe.
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References

  1. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  2. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  3. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  4. ↑ https://youtu.be/ttkaOxjXuEQ?si=xLkGKQHM1YL6Cbs5&t=853
  5. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  6. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  7. ↑ https://thepeachbox.co/blogs/news/top-10-types-of-necklace-chains
  8. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  9. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  1. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  2. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=-QHfzQhQtZfrSn09&t=920
  3. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  4. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=qcSgiwKpd1d-H7WP&t=493
  5. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  6. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  7. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  8. ↑ https://youtu.be/ttkaOxjXuEQ?si=Dpfy4fKv7uZijj9d&t=643
  9. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=GZhkG8VVc8gT8xaU&t=877
  10. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=5Kec2bx9c611vtLx&t=1285
  11. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  12. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=AW64YC7IcElZlVR5&t=1223
  13. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  14. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  15. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  16. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=R4w5fIYX7-ULYNf1&t=1318
  17. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  18. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=3c_0g_GheEI_o-jw&t=1375
  19. ↑ https://diamondbuzz.blog/types-of-necklace-chains/
  20. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=RUoWA6aMlCDjM0Tc&t=1554
  21. ↑ https://plumbclub.com/types-of-jewelry-chain-link-styles/
  22. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=4s7a1AbbCQAF6jK3&t=1515
  23. ↑ https://youtu.be/J4fP4pSICtI?si=L3G9szqFhZt9wgRP&t=1534
  24. ↑ Katie Quinn. Personal Wardrobe Stylist. Expert Interview
  25. ↑ https://www.instyle.com/how-to-layer-necklaces-5365100
  26. ↑ Kalee Hewlett. Fashion Stylist. Expert Interview

About This Article

Katie Quinn
Co-authored by:
Katie Quinn
Image Consultant
This article was co-authored by Katie Quinn and by wikiHow staff writer, Devin McSween. Katie Quinn is an Image Consultant, Personal Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Q the Stylist, an image consulting service based in New York City helping men and women understand their specific goals, improve their wardrobe, performance, and life. She has over 11 years of image consulting experience and has worked as a stylist for Trunk Club, Modewalk, and Moda Operandi. Her work has been featured in Vogue, InStyle, Martha Stewart Weddings, Sheridan Road, Slate, Newsy, Rue, and Thrillist.
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Updated: October 9, 2025
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Categories: Necklaces
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