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Gold adornments have always held an ageless charm across many cultures, one of which is our own, wherein they not only symbolise simple elegance but also carry with them the weight of status and age-old tradition. Yet, when it comes to adorning oneself with these symbols of high place and great wealth, one may not always know which to choose.
With their common features, chains and necklaces are alike in many ways. Both can be made of any kind of gold, whether 14K, 18K, or the much-lauded 916 (22K) gold. Both are worn around the neck. However, beyond these similarities, each piece serves a distinct purpose in neck adornment.
What is a Gold Chain?
A gold chain is usually a very basic length of gold made up of oval shapes linked together and with no other embellishments or attachments added to it. It can be worn almost anywhere and looks just as good layered with other pieces of jewellery. A gold chain has the same design all the way through, making it quite simple, much like a gold band.
Gold chains are available in various styles, including rope, box, cable, curb, and snake. Each design offers a different texture and strength, allowing the wearer to choose a piece that aligns with their style or better matches a specific pendant. Because of their simplicity, gold chains are a go-to for both men and women and are often the base for layering pieces.
What is a Gold Necklace?
A gold necklace is usually an even more intricate and elaborate piece of jewellery. It often has decorative elements like gemstones, diamonds, or pearls, and is designed to be an accessory that stands out. While gold chains are sometimes worn alone, necklaces are more frequently seen as part of an accessory ensemble. If you are aiming for an ensemble that is even partially formal, then a gold necklace is a far better choice than a gold chain.
Necklaces come in many different styles, including chokers, collar designs, princess-length pieces, and lariats. These are often crafted with great detail and are seen as the centrepiece of an outfit rather than a complementary accessory.
Differences Between a Gold Chain and a Gold Necklace
To understand more clearly the difference between a chain and a necklace, let us compare them across a number of important categories:
1. Design
Gold chains tend to have a simple, uniform pattern of interlocking links. They are designed to be clean and minimalist, which makes them ideal for wearing with pendants or layering with other jewellery. In contrast, gold necklaces often include some sort of decorative element, like a pendulum or a gemstone setting, and are specifically designed to stand out. Of course, that is not always the case. Some gold necklaces are simple enough to be worn alongside a chain, but generally speaking, a gold necklace will have more going on than a gold chain.
2. Function
Another key distinction between a chain and a necklace is their intended use. Chains are more versatile and better suited for everyday wear. They can be dressed up or down and styled with all sorts of ensembles. Necklaces, on the other hand, are usually reserved for more special occasions, like weddings or fancy formal dinners, when a statement piece feels more appropriate.
3. Weight
Lighter and more comfortable design for everyday wear, gold chains, unlike their stone-studded or otherwise elaborate counterparts, are not demanding and, as such, are exceedingly easy to have. Gold necklaces, especially those not simply designed, might be heavier, more delicate, and require more care.
4. Pricing
Gold chains are typically as affordable as gold jewellery comes, and often a great deal less than necklaces. The reason is simple: chains have far fewer elements than most necklaces, and making a gold chain requires no special skills apart from the ability to solder. Even soldering is not always necessary, as many chains are made up of links that are open at both ends; soldering would close the loop, using up more materials in the process.
5. Customisation
Both gold chains and gold necklaces can be personalised, but chains offer more options for customisation. Many wearers start with a simple gold chain and add custom pendants or charms that hold special meaning. Chains can be made with a huge variety of links, but the gold can also be worked in with unique features, like a swivel that allows a pendant to hang straight.
Make the Right Choice with Merlin Goldsmith
Chains are the kind of gold accessory that you can wear every day. They are versatile and simple enough to be an everyday gold piece, yet also chic enough to take and wear to a slightly dressy occasion. When it comes to making a statement, nothing can replace a gold necklace, bursting with flair and elegance for those special occasions.
Are you looking purchase extraordinary, bespoke gold items that mirror your one-of-a-kind charm? Explore the wide range of stunning gold necklaces and chains at Merlin Goldsmith today. You are sure to discover a piece of magic that truly shines!