Picking out your favorite pieces of jewelry can be fun. But, when it comes to choosing the best chain and pendant combo, it can get a tad bit difficult.
From different styled pendants to variable chain sizes, the markets are flooded with numerous choices for both.
The abundance of options always makes selecting the best combination challenging, especially if you intend to gift it to someone.
As overwhelming as it may seem, the good news is that it is not something complex.
It all comes down to sticking to a few ground rules, and you’ll be able to pick the perfect combo.
Keep on reading to find out all about it.
Table Of Contents
How heavy should a chain be for a pendant?
Generally, a perfect chain to pendant weight ratio is 1:1. This means that both the chain and pendant should weigh equal or almost equal.
So, if your pendant is very hefty, do not settle for a delicate chain because it won’t be able to withstand its weight.
A pendant is usually weightier than a chain. Since it keeps on dangling to the chain, the chain is constantly under pressure, diminishing its life.
Heavy pendants can also bring about early wear and tear, and sometimes they can even result in snapping the chain.
If you do not mind changing your chains regularly, then you have nothing to worry about.
But, if you want your chosen combo to last for equal amounts of time, make sure the chain is sturdy and preferably slightly heavier than the pendant.
Can a pendant be too heavy for a chain?
When it comes to pendant sizes, you can find a diverse variety that ranges from very tiny ones to extremely weighty medallions.
Despite the style, design, and size, any pendant can be too heavy for a chain if you haven’t been careful with your selection.
Contrary to common belief, not every huge-sized pendant is heavy and vice versa. It greatly depends on the metal being used and how it’s being constructed.
Any pendant that is heavier than your chain is considered to be too heavy for it. Be it a teeny tiny moon-shaped pendant or an enormous one. If your chain isn’t equally heavy, it won’t be able to hold the pendant’s weight.
What is the best size chain for a pendant?
The size of the chain mainly depends upon your personal preference. However, to better guide you, here is brief info on different chain sizes you can pick for yourself.
- 14-18 Inches
This is the smallest chain size. This size fits closely around the neck and remains visible above your neckline or shirt collar. If you love choker-style necklaces, then this is the length for you.
- 20-22 Inches
This is the most commonly used and available size range of chains with pendants. These are slightly longer than the above ones and fall right on your collarbone.
If you have a higher neckline, you can wear these outside your clothes, and if you have a more plunging neckline, they’ll remain visible on your skin.
- 22-24 Inches
One step ahead, these chains with medium length fall on your upper chest. This size looks best with enormous and chunky pendants. They are popular with dog tags too.
These can be worn both inside and outside your clothes. However, they look best when completely visible.
- 24-30 Inches
This is the biggest size you can get in chains. But, the buyers of this size are rare. Dangling down to the stomach or lower, this size is usually favored by hip hop fanatics.
These chains usually have very thick links and are styled with eye-grabbing chunkier pendants.
How much weight can a jewelry chain hold?
There is no hard and fast rule about how much weight a jewelry chain can hold. It depends on many factors, like the style of the chain, width, link thickness, and more.
As a rule of thumb, the width of a chain is directly proportional to how much weight it can hold.
Most chains come with a 1 to 1.5mm width, which is ample to hold an average-sized pendant.
Chains that are less than 1mm in thickness should be used with very lightweight pendants or no pendants at all.
If the chain is link-based, then the links’ thickness also matters. How closely and tightly the links are connected to each other determines the chain’s strength.
Also, the type of metal used in the chain is of great relevance. Some metals are sturdier than others.
Some are malleable and can disfigure the chain due to weight, so you must be careful.
You should also know which chain type is most suitable for pairing up with pendants. A cable chain is sturdy, but if it’s too thin, it can easily snap.
Ball chain, box chain, and rope chain can hold weight if they are adequately thick.
However, herringbone and snake chains are pretty delicate, making them unfitting for use with pendants.
Just remember to go for the thickest chains for very hefty pendants and vice versa.
I am the founder of In The Fashion Jungle, A site that aims to bring the latest trends and fashion news to our readers. I have extensive experience in the fashion industry, having worked in fashion manufacturing, production, and quality control for many years.
My passion for fashion began at a young age, and I pursued a degree in fashion design to further hone my skills. After graduation, I worked with several well-known fashion brands, where I gained valuable experience in all aspects of fashion production.
Over the years, I have developed a keen eye for fashion trends and have a deep understanding of the manufacturing process. This has allowed me to successfully launch my own fashion site, where I can share my knowledge and expertise with others who are passionate about fashion.
Through my site, I hope to inspire others to express themselves through fashion, whether it be through clothing, jewelry, or accessories. I believe that fashion is a form of self-expression and that everyone should have the opportunity to feel confident and stylish.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my passion for fashion. I look forward to sharing my insights with you through my site.
