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Catalog of chain links

· 2 min read · Jewelry

Illustration: Catalog of chain links

A catalog of the main chain designs. Each has its character and behavior: some are more flexible, others sturdier. See also types of chain.

Twelve chain link designs drawn
Most common chain links
  • Cable or rolo: identical oval links.
  • Belcher: wide, rounded links of equal length.
  • Curb and Cuban: twisted links that lie flat.
  • Figaro: alternates short and long links.
  • Anchor or mariner: with a crossbar in each link.
  • Paperclip: long, narrow links.

Woven and braided #

  • Rope: links in a spiral.
  • Byzantine: complex, thick braid.
  • Singapore: twisted links that sparkle.
  • Wheat: links that imitate an ear of wheat.
  • Herringbone: flat, fishbone-like.
  • Venetian and box: square links.

Smooth and flexible #

  • Snake: woven, round or flat, very flexible.
  • Milanese: flat, fine mesh.
  • Omega: a flexible tube of scales.

Ball and bead #

  • Ball: small joined spheres.
  • Bead or pearl: strung beads.

Thickness and length #

Thickness is measured in millimeters and length in centimeters. A fine chain (1 mm) is delicate and discreet; a thick one (4 mm or more) is firm and eye-catching. For pendants, choose a thickness that suits the weight. See what length to choose.

Which chain for each use #

  • With a pendant: cable, box or snake (the pendant slides well).
  • Everyday: belcher, anchor or paperclip (resistant).
  • To stand out: rope, Singapore or Byzantine.
  • For men: Cuban, anchor or thick herringbone.
  • For a bracelet: cable, curb or figaro.

Solidity and flexibility #

Hollow chains weigh less and look big, but they dent; solid ones are firmer and last longer. Woven ones (snake, Milanese) are flexible but hard to repair. If a chain breaks, see how to fix a chain.

Handmade chains #

Many of these chains can be made by hand, link by link (handmade chains) or with the chainmaille technique.

See also #

This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.