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26 Different Types of Necklaces

By Wiesen March 28th, 2024 598 views
26 Types of Necklaces:

1. Chain Necklaces


 

Chain necklaces are straightforward pieces of jewelry. Chain necklaces are necklaces made up of links, typically metal, that are connected together to form a flexible and often decorative piece of jewelry.

There are various types of chains out there, including rope, curb, figaro, mesh, box and bead, with the most popular being the classic cable chain. Chain necklaces do not feature any pendants or charms and are worn either on their own or layered with other pieces.
 

1)Trace: Often the simplest style of chain. The links in a trace chain are typically uniform in breadth and thickness, and can be very delicate, especially in finer widths.
 

2)Rolo: The links of a rolo chain are usually identical and often round.
 

3)Singapore: This may also be called a twisted curb, but the links are joined in such a way that, even when the chain is untwisted, there is always a natural curve to it. Usually, this chain is sold very fine and has a liquid-like look to it.
 

4)A curb chain is when the links interlock with each other when laid flat. Some more open-link curb chains can only be distinguished from a trace by this method. This style of chain has the greatest variety of widths available, from a few millimetres to over four centimeters.
 

5)Briolette: Also known as Box, briolette is similar to a belcher chain except the links are tighter together and are square in shape, hence the name.



2. Pearl Necklaces


Pearl necklaces are necklaces that feature pearls as the main decorative element. Pearls are valued for their lustrous appearance. A typical pearl necklace will be available at standard necklace lengths, including choker length (at the base of the neck), princess, matinee (sitting low on the chest), opera (close to waist-length), and the longest: rope length.


3. Tennis Necklaces


 

A tennis necklace is a type of necklace featuring a continuous line of gemstones, typically diamonds set closely together on a metal base.
 

The name "tennis necklace" originated from an incident involving professional tennis player Chris Evert during a match in 1987 when the clasp of her diamond bracelet broke, causing her to ask officials to pause the match while she searched for the lost jewelry. Since then, necklaces with a similar style have been known as tennis necklaces.



4. Beaded Necklaces


 

Beaded necklaces are necklaces made by stringing beads together. These beads can be made from various materials such as glass, wood, plastic, metal, or gemstones. Beaded necklaces are mostly handmade, a small percentage can be man-made.
 

Beaded necklaces can be simple and elegant or elaborate and intricate, depending on the design and materials used. They are popular accessories that can add a pop of color or a touch of style to an outfit.



5. Initial Necklaces  


Initial necklaces are necklaces that feature a pendant in the shape of a letter, typically representing a person's initials or those of a loved one. The letter pendants can be embellished with gemstones or engraved for a more customized touch. Initial necklaces are often given as thoughtful gifts to mark special occasions or to add a personal touch to an outfit.


6. Sautoir Necklaces

 

A sautoir is a type of long necklace, usually reaching to the waist or below, that lacks a clasp and is worn draped around the neck. Sautoir necklaces feature woven or twisted ropes of pearls or gemstones with dangling tassels, paired with geometric diamond and gem-decked designs.
 

Sautoir necklaces can be worn in various ways, such as doubled or tripled around the neck, or with the ends hanging loose.



7. Torque Necklaces


 

Torque necklaces, also known as torc or torque, are rigid or semi-rigid necklaces that are open at the front and worn around the neck. Traditionally, they consist of a bar or twisted metal that is shaped as a loop, with metallic knobs (or motifs like animal heads) at each end. Modern styles ditch the knobs and feature a more streamlined design. It may be plain or embellished with gemstones or other decorative elements
 

Torque necklaces have been worn by various cultures throughout history, including the Celts and Vikings, and are often associated with strength, power, and status.



8. Lariat necklaces

 

Lariat necklaces have an open-end design, with a chain (ending with a gemstone, metallic element or other ornamental pendant) falling low on the chest. It does not have a traditional clasp. Instead, the necklace is worn by looping one end through the other, creating a draped or layered look.
 

Lariat necklaces can be worn in different ways, such as with the ends draped down the front, knotted at the base of the neck, or wrapped around the neck multiple times.



9. Thread Necklaces

 

Thread necklaces, also known as string necklaces, are casual necklaces made with various types of threads or cords. These necklaces are often simple in design, using the thread as the main element to hold beads, charms, or pendants. Thread necklaces can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, cotton, nylon, or other fibers.
 

Thread necklaces are popular in jewelry making due to their simplicity and ability to be customized with different beads or pendants.



10. Pendant necklaces

 

Pendant necklaces are necklaces that feature a central decorative element, called a pendant, suspended from a chain or cord. The pendant can come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, and may be made from materials such as metal, gemstones, glass, or wood.
 

Pendant necklaces are popular for their versatility and ability to add a personal touch to an outfit. They can range from simple and understated to elaborate and ornate, depending on the style and design of the pendant.



11. Station necklaces

 

Station necklaces, also known as Tin Cup necklaces, are necklaces that feature a series of evenly spaced beads or stations along a chain. creating ‘stations’ for the gems, displayed symmetrically. Many designs feature chains that are barely-there, as their dainty and slim silhouette makes them almost invisible, allowing the gems to stand out.
 

The stations are typically larger or more decorative than the chain itself. Station necklaces can be made from various materials, such as pearls, gemstones, or beads.



12. Multi-Layer Necklaces


 

Multi-layer necklaces, also known as layered necklaces, are necklaces that consist of multiple strands or layers of chains, beads, or other materials worn together around the neck.
 

These necklaces are designed to create a layered or stacked look, often featuring different lengths or styles for each layer. Multi-layer necklaces can add dimension and style to an outfit.



13. Charm Necklaces

 

Charm necklaces are necklaces that feature one or more small decorative pendants, called charms, that hang from the chain. Charms can be made of various materials, such as metal.
 

Charm necklaces are popular for their ability to be personalized, as people can choose charms that represent their interests, hobbies, beliefs, or memories. They are often given as gifts to mark special occasions or milestones.



14. Solitaire Necklaces

 

Solitaire necklaces typically refer to necklaces featuring a single, prominent gemstone, often a diamond, set in a simple setting. The term "solitaire" is commonly associated with jewelry, especially rings and necklaces, to indicate that the piece features a single, standout gemstone.
 

Solitaire necklaces are known for their elegant and understated look, with the focus being on the beauty and brilliance of the solitary gemstone.



15. Tassel Necklaces

 

Tassel necklaces are a type of necklace characterized by the presence of a tassel, which is a bunch of threads or cords gathered together at one end and often capped or decorated. The tassel typically hangs from a chain or cord, creating a decorative and often playful look.
 

Tassel necklaces can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, cotton, beads, and metal chains. They are known for their bohemian and sometimes glamorous aesthetic.



16. Riviere Necklaces

 

Rivière necklaces are a type of necklace characterized by a single or multiple rows of gemstones, typically diamonds, that are of uniform size and cut, usually set in a continuous line without spacers or settings between them.
 

The term "rivière" is French for "river," which is thought to describe the way the gemstones flow around the neck like a river of light.
 

Rivière necklaces are known for their elegance and timeless appeal. They are often worn for formal occasions or as part of a sophisticated evening ensemble.




17. Collar Necklaces


Collar necklaces are a style of necklace that sits snugly around the neck, typically resting at the base of the neck or slightly below the collarbone. They are characterized by their close fit and often feature a structured design that keeps the necklace in place.


18. Choker Necklaces



Choker necklaces are close-fitting necklaces that are worn high on the neck, typically resting just above the collarbone. They are characterized by their short length and snug fit, often featuring a flexible band or chain that allows the necklace to sit comfortably around the neck. Choker necklaces can be made from a variety of materials, including velvet, lace, leather, metal, and gemstones.


19. Locket Necklaces


 

Locket necklaces are a type of necklace that features a pendant with a small compartment, usually designed to hold a keepsake such as a photograph, a lock of hair, or other small items of sentimental value. These necklaces have a hinged or screw-on mechanism that allows the wearer to open and close the locket to access the inner compartment.
 

Locket necklaces are often chosen as meaningful gifts, allowing the wearer to keep cherished memories close to their heart.



20. Negligee Necklace


 

Negligee necklaces are a type of necklace characterized by a design featuring two pendants or drops that are suspended at different lengths, creating an asymmetric look.

The name "negligee" is derived from the French word for "careless" or "casual," reflecting the relaxed and flowing nature of the necklace's design.
 

Negligee necklaces are typically made from precious metals such as gold or silver and may be adorned with gemstones or other decorative elements. The uneven lengths of the necklace create a sense of movement and fluidity, giving it a delicate and romantic appearance.



21. Plastron Necklaces


 

A plastron necklace is a large, ornamental necklace that covers a significant portion of the chest area. It derives its name from the term "plastron," which means "breastplate" in French.
 

Plastron necklaces are characterized by their bold and intricate designs, often featuring elaborate patterns, gemstones, beads, or other decorative elements.



22. Birthstone Necklaces

 

Birthstone necklaces are necklaces that feature a gemstone corresponding to the recipient's birth month. Each month is associated with a specific gemstone, and wearing a birthstone is believed to bring luck, protection, and other benefits associated with the gemstone's properties.
 

Here is a list of birthstones by month:

  1. January - Garnet

  2. February - Amethyst

  3. March - Aquamarine

  4. April - Diamond

  5. May - Emerald

  6. June - Pearl or Alexandrite

  7. July - Ruby

  8. August - Peridot

  9. September - Sapphire

  10. October - Opal or Tourmaline

  11. November - Topaz or Citrine

  12. December - Turquoise or Tanzanite
     

Birthstone necklaces can be simple and elegant, featuring a single gemstone, or they can be more elaborate, incorporating the birthstone into a more intricate design. They are often given as gifts for birthdays or other special occasions and are thought to bring the wearer good luck and positive energy associated with their birth month.


 

 



23. Bib Necklaces

 

Bib necklaces are a style of necklace characterized by a broad, decorative front section that covers part of the chest, resembling a bib. They typically consist of one or more strands of beads, often with a pendant or central design element.
 

Bib necklaces can be made from various materials such as beads, crystals, metals, and fabrics, and they come in a variety of styles and designs, ranging from intricate and ornate to simple and elegant.




24. Graduated Necklaces

 

Graduated necklaces are necklaces where the size or number of beads, gems, or elements varies gradually along the length of the necklace. A graduated necklace is comprised of beads – or round gemstones, such as pearls – that vary in size. The larger beads are displayed in the center, and they get gradually smaller towards the back.
 

The making of a graduated pearl necklace is labor intensive because the gems need to be matched two by two in size on each side of the necklace. A tennis necklace can be classified as a graduated necklace if the size of the diamonds or cubic zirconia increases towards the center of the neckpiece.



25. Festoon Necklaces  

 

Festoon necklaces are necklaces characterized by a decorative motif consisting of a chain or garland suspended between two points.
 

In jewelry, festoon necklaces feature a chain or series of chains that are draped in a curved or arched shape, often embellished with gemstones, pearls, or other decorative elements. Festoon necklaces can be delicate and understated or bold and elaborate.


 
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