Jewelry Chain: Learn the top 10 styles

jewelry chain with tourmaline gemstone beads in a long necklace

Jewelry chain is an essential component of many types of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and even earrings. Chains can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, platinum, and stainless steel, as well as more affordable options like brass or copper. The type of jewelry chain used in a design can greatly impact its overall appearance and style, with each type of chain offering a unique texture and visual appeal. 

Some jewelry chains, like the simple cable chain or the elegant Venetian chain, are understated and classic, while others, such as the bold curb chain or the intricate Byzantine chain, are more statement-making and dramatic. Whether used as a standalone piece or as a complement to a pendant or charm, a well-crafted jewelry chain can dimension and richness to your #neckmess, we mean layered necklace look :). Beadworks carries jewelry chain by the foot as well as finished chain necklaces that you can quickly add a gemstone charm to.

Learn the names of the jewelry chain styles that you see everywhere

layered jewelry chains in gold

There are many types of jewelry chain, including:

  • Cable chain: a simple chain with uniformly sized round or oval links.
  • Figaro chain: a chain with alternating long and short links, typically with three short links followed by one long link.
  • Rope chain: a chain made up of twisted or braided strands, giving it a rope-like appearance.
  • Box chain: a chain made up of square links that fit together like boxes.
  • Curb chain: a chain with links that are twisted and flattened, creating a slightly curved surface.
    • Snake chain: a chain made up of closely interlocking wavy links, giving it a smooth, flexible texture.
    • Wheat chain: a chain made up of small, twisted oval links that are connected by larger, oval links.
    • Bead chain: a chain made up of small, round beads that are linked together.
    • Byzantine chain: a chain made up of intricate, interlocking links that form a square or rectangular pattern.
    • Venetian chain: a chain made up of small, rectangular links that are twisted at a 45-degree angle, creating a diamond-shaped pattern.

    These are just a few examples of the many types of jewelry chains that are available. Different chains can also look very different in different metal finishes and sizes such as this extra large curb chain in black.

    large-curb-jewelry chain