Necklace buying guide

Buying a necklace can be a difficult process: there are so many choices! The right necklace can be the perfect gift for yourself or a friend or loved one, and a few great necklaces can liven up even the dullest wardrobe.

Necklace lengths

Before deciding on a necklace, you should consider several things about the potential necklace wearer, whether yourself or someone else. Most necklaces available in jewelry stores measure one of several standard lengths. A salesperson can show you in person how face shape, necklace length, and necklace design may affect your purchasing decision. In addition to buying the best shape and design, you’ll want to make sure the necklace fits and is comfortable.

Short necklaces typically measure 12 – 13 inches. These necklaces are usually made up of three or more strands and wrap snugly around your neck – be sure you’ve measured yourself so you don’t get one that is too tight. Chokers are still quite snug at 14 – 16 inches. These should rest just above the collarbone, accenting your neckline.

Chokers

Princess necklaces measure 17 – 19 inches, with the bottom hanging just around the collarbone. Princess length chains are the typical length for pendants. Matinee necklaces hang much lower, extending to the top of the chest at a length of 20 – 24 inches. This is the recommended length for business outfits. Opera necklaces, at 28 – 34 inches, are advisable for higher necklines and can be doubled as two choker necklace lengths. Finally, ropes and lariats are two types of necklaces with lengths of over 45 inches. Ropes are very long necklaces that can be worn to fit your clothing or wrapped to create a two-stranded choker. Lariats are unattached at one end so that you can tie them in various ways.

Lariat necklaces

Necklace chains

Necklaces are available in many materials, but for jewelry that will last, choose durable sterling silver or 14-karat gold chains. Sterling silver won’t wear down to brass like silver plated necklaces can. Silver is very affordable, and sterling silver pendants can be engraved for a truly personalized look. Gold will cost more than silver, but it boldly states a grand elegance, unmatched by any other material. A gold choker or longer chain can make a simple and versatile necklace choice, or you can buy a natural stone or precious stone pendant on a gold chain for a classic look.

Natural stone pendants on gold chains

Diamond necklaces

A diamond necklace is always stunning, and almost always expensive. A simple diamond pendant on a yellow or white gold chain complements any evening look with an understated beauty. Expect to pay at least $100-500 dollars for a pendant necklace. Diamond jewelry will list the total carat weight of the stones on in each piece – for comparison, a traditional wedding ring is typically one carat. Look for a necklace with near-colorless diamonds and no visible imperfections. In addition to single stones, heart-shaped and circular diamond pendants are sure to please.

Circular diamond pendants

Pearl necklaces

A timeless classic, a strand of pearls complements anything from a cashmere sweaters to a ballgown. For the most beautiful pearls, the most important factor is a medium to high “luster grade” – that deep, reflective look pearls are known for. For a smooth appearance, make sure the pearls are as close to flawless as possible, or only lightly spotted. The classic pearl necklace – a 16-inch strand of 7mm white Akoya pearls – is an essential for every woman’s wardrobe, costing $500 – $1,000.

6.5-7mm White Akoya Pearl Necklace In 14kt Yellow Gold. 16"

Akoyas, South Sea pearls, Tahitian Black pearls, and Mabe pearls all make precious and beautiful necklaces. For a less expensive alternative to these pearl necklaces, Baroque pearls are irregularly shaped cultured pearls. They are also often less costly than round, cultured pearls. Freshwater pearls are an inexpensive and widely available variety of Baroque pearl. Their shapes vary, and colors range from milky white to peach, pink, and lavender.

Freshwater pearl necklaces

Beaded necklaces

For more casual necklace styles, look to beaded necklaces. They come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Crystal, wood, natural stone, or even synthetic beads, on their own or in combination, make beautiful and unique accessories. Beaded necklaces can also add international flavor to your outfit – for example, African or Indian beaded necklaces. If you’re the artistic type, you can even create your own necklaces with beading kits.

Indian bead necklaces

Necklaces are appropriate for women of any age and any style. With so many to choose from, you’re bound to come across at least a few that are just right, whether for yourself or for someone else.

Once you’ve decided on a necklace or two, you might want some advice on choosing a bracelet to accompany it.