Chain Necklace: History and Types

A chain necklace is one accessory that people certainly love. This type of jewelry can come in a wide variety of designs and styles and may also be made from different kinds of materials. Designs range from simple to sophisticated and from single to multiple chains.

The origin of the necklace chains can be traced back to at least seventy five thousand years ago in history. The first people who wore these kinds of accessory were the cavemen. During those times, the chain necklaces were not made of precious metals as they are now. Instead, they were made of mollusks, claws, bones, teeth, and stones strung together on a piece of string. When gold was discovered and became widely used in 2500 BC, the gold chain necklace became popular. People have found a way to make the most out of this precious metal, turning it into different kinds of necklaces such as chokers and other varieties. Currently, there are three different types of gold used in making these jewelry pieces. These include white gold, rose gold, and yellow gold.

Aside from gold, other precious metals were also used for making the necklaces. Second to gold, the metal that is most widely used for the creation of these jewelry pieces is silver. There are all types of silver necklaces available for jewelry lovers in the market these days. People who usually cannot afford the high prices of gold jewelries often purchase the silver types as an alternative to the more expensive gold pieces.

In many occasions, people may often prefer to wear a silver chain necklace to go with their outfit. Like gold, it has a certain touch of elegance to it.

Chain necklaces were once used to represent the status of women in society centuries ago. For instance, to denote their high status in society, women from the upper or wealthier class may wear multiple chains around their necks. The multi chain necklace they wore was often decked with intricate and attractive designs, representing their wealth and status in society where they were. Women who were on the lower class often only wear plain chain necklaces.

These days, the design of the necklaces worn by individuals may no longer denote their status in society. Anyone can choose to wear the kind of chain jewelry necklace they want as long as they have the capacity to buy such jewelry. Moreover, they now have a large selection of necklaces to choose from. Below are some of the most common types worn by people these days:

•             Rope Chain – This necklace chain is composed of two chains twisted together to form a spiral design. Basically, its appearance resembles that of a rope; hence, its name. Usually, this type is thicker compared to other chain varieties.

•             Serpentine – Usually shaped into an “S”, and is composed of two links laid right next to each other.

•             Foxtail – One of the most sophisticated designs, this chain is usually created with oval links that are made to face each other.

•             Herringbone – Recognized for its alternate slanting appearance, this chain is composed of small chains linked closely together.

•             Cable – One of the simplest designs available among many selections, this has been considered as the standard design for chains.

Choosing the type of chain necklace that best fits an individual may be a challenge for some because of the many designs, styles, and sizes available. However, if they know the size and style that best works for the kind of outfit, they are wearing as well as the design that may go well with their figure; they may just be able to get just the perfect chain jewelry.

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