Necklace Materials, Styles and Components

There are a number of distinct necklace materials, styles and components to choose from. From the elegant sophistication of a pearl strand to the classic beauty of a lavaliere, and from the casual simplicity of a bib necklace to lockets and initial pendants.

Whether you prefer to wear a simple chain or a length of closely strung beads, the right necklace will elevate any look.

Chains

Chains are the foundation of many necklace styles. They come in a wide variety of widths, shapes and finishes. The most common chain is sterling silver, which is available in different lengths to suit any outfit. Gold-plated and gold-filled chains are also popular choices for those who prefer a brighter color.

Some chains feature more intricate patterns than others. Twisted curb chain, for example, has flat curb links that are twisted together for added texture and visual interest. Other unique chain types include rolo chain (made of round links), figaro chain (one long link and three short ones) and snake chain (which has alternating rounded and flat links).

You can add a single pendant or multiple pendants to your necklace chain. If you want to create a focal point, string your pendant(s) slightly off center on alternating strands of the necklace. Then tie the ends of the chain and clasp with a knot to secure the design.

If you want to string beads, use beading chain, which has a bolt ring clasp that is easy to open and close with snipe nose pliers. Place a crimp bead on the end of the chain where you want to attach your beads and a corresponding crimp with loop on the other end of the necklace chain. Ensure the crimp is tightly closed, and then you can start adding beads to your chain in the order you have planned.

Pendants

Pendants are the main focal point of a necklace, and they can be used in a variety of styles. They can be as simple as a single stone in a particular cut and setting, or as intricate as a circle or halo of stones surrounding a larger one. Alternatively, they can be a recognisable symbol such as a heart or a key, or a letter or number that reflects the wearer’s personality.

You can make a pendant from almost anything, but some materials work better than others. For example, you can use polymer clay to create one-of-a-kind pendants for your necklaces. These clay creations can be baked to harden jewelry wholesale and become more durable than traditional beads. In addition, they’re easier to handle than regular beads and can be molded into various shapes.

You can also add a pendant to an existing necklace by attaching it with jump rings. These rings are used to connect your chain to the pendant, and they’re available in a wide range of sizes. When selecting gold plated earrings a jump ring, look for a high-quality metal that’s durable and easy to work with. These rings are available at most hardware stores and online retailers. Depending on your preferences, you can also opt for a silver or gold-plated one. These options are ideal for more formal occasions.

Beads

A beaded necklace is among the most eye-catching of all jewelry projects. It can be made from almost anything, from the earliest examples, a pair of Nassarius sea snail shell beads, to today’s glass beads and natural materials like wood and pearls. Beads can be woven together with a specialized thread, strung on wire or soft flexible wire, or adhered to a surface. The art of beadwork reveals much about personal style and aesthetics, and its materials document the environment, a culture’s economy and values.

When designing a beaded necklace, look at the mix of colors and shapes you have available. Adding contrast with a small bead of a different color or a contrasting shape can enhance the overall look. You may also wish to include a special object, such as a charm or a cabochon.

When stringing the beads, be sure to leave a small amount of slack in the necklace, otherwise it may become too tight and uncomfortable to wear. Knotting is the traditional technique for necklaces, but crimping can provide a clean, modern look that also reduces the amount of knotting needed. Be sure to use a clear glue, as any residue left behind can detract from the beauty of the necklace. When the necklace is complete, tie off the thread with no slack and add a drop of glue to the knot.

Clasps

Clasps are a small but important part of necklaces and other types of jewelry like bracelets and anklets. They help to secure and fasten your design, and come in a variety of shapes, styles and sizes.

One of the most common clasps is the lobster claw, which features a lever on one side that opens and closes with a simple pull. This is a durable, simple and inexpensive clasp that can be used with many different types of chains.

Other popular types of clasps include buckle clasps, toggle clasps, screw fasteners and magnetic clasps. Buckle clasps feature a hinged prong that slips into a hole on the chain and sits against a metal frame. These are easy to open and close, but they can be difficult to maneuver with thicker or more delicate chains.

Toggle clasps have a basic circle on one end and a decorative bar or T-shaped end on the other. They are easy to fasten but can wiggle or come loose over time. Screw fasteners, also called barrel clasps, are shaped like a barrel and require twisting to open and close. They are not the best option for people with arthritis or other hand issues.

Magnetic clasps are a modern alternative to screw fasteners, and they offer a minimalist design with two magnets that snap together for a quick and easy closure. They are a great choice for multi-strand necklaces and bracelets.