Types of gold chains: figaro, herringbone, snake and more

What decides how a chain falls?

Two things: the shape of the links and their thickness.

• Flat links lie against your skin and shine like a ribbon. Think herringbone, serpentine and curb.
• Round links move freely and catch the light from every side. Think anchor and rope.
• Dense links feel almost like fabric. A snake chain is the best example.

Then there's thickness. A fine chain is subtle and perfect for layering, a thicker one holds its own. A fine chain is often thinner than you'd expect, so check the millimetres in the specifications, and the photos on the model to see how it really falls.

Every chain at a glance

The classics up close

Figaro

A few short links, then a long one, and again. That rhythm makes a figaro chain recognisable without shouting about it. It's strong and beautiful enough to wear on its own. Layering? Put a plain chain next to it, so the pattern stands out.

Herringbone

Flat links in a V pattern that lie together like liquid gold. A herringbone shines like no other chain, but it doesn't like kinks or knots. Wear it without a pendant and store it flat.

Snake

A round, smooth chain that moves like a ribbon of gold. Minimal, modern and a lovely base for layering. A snake chain can kink if you fold it sharply, so lay it down straight.

Curb

Twisted links that lie flat against your skin. Sturdy, classic and strong enough for a pendant.

Paperclip

A paperclip chain has long, flat rectangles, exactly as the name says. Light, open and modern. It looks great on its own and makes an easy second layer next to a finer chain.

Rope

Links that twist around each other like a little rope. That's why a rope chain catches the light from every angle. Strong, timeless and one of the most beautiful chains for a bracelet.

From this story

Figaro Chain Necklace €509,00 Herringbone Chain Necklace €799,00 Thin Snake Chain Necklace €739,00

Matching necklace and bracelet

We make most of our chains as a necklace and as a chain bracelet. That gives you three ways to pair them:

• The same chain. Figaro around your neck, figaro around your wrist. Calm, and an instant set.
• The same family, a different thickness. A fine snake chain with a sturdier bracelet. Related, not identical.
• Pattern next to plain. A herringbone on your wrist, a plain chain around your neck. One chain stands out, the other supports it.

Which length to choose? Read our necklace length guide. For your wrist, see how to choose a gold bracelet.

From this story

Herringbone Chain Bracelet €409,00 Figaro Chain Bracelet €309,00 Twisted Rope Bracelet €419,00

How to keep your chain beautiful

Water does real gold no harm. Soap, lotion, perfume and cleaning products can make it look dull, though. Then polish your chain with a soft cloth, or with lukewarm water, a drop of mild soap and a soft brush.

Store each chain separately with the clasp closed, so it doesn't tangle or scratch. Lay a herringbone, snake or serpentine chain flat, or hang it up. Everything about care is on our care page.

Gold Chain Necklaces Real gold, from fine chains to pendants. Shop Gold Chain Necklaces