Men's chain - an attractive decoration
So, more details. A man's chain as a clear evidence of financial security, as thick as a finger - this is, as they say, a thing of the past. Modern businessmen and business people give their preference to accessories that are not at all flashy and pretentious. Today, the market offers a wide variety of simple, but at the same time stylish and original jewelry.
Men's chains occupy a special place in jewelry production. Many famous world designers are working on the development of their forms. Sometimes you have to work hard on this activity. But in the end, the strong half of humanity gets the opportunity to purchase attractive and reliable products.
Characteristics
Since men's gold chains have long been considered a must-have accessory, jewelers are developing fresh new designs to reflect each man's personality. Therefore, when choosing a suitable model, the main characteristics are considered. These include:
Appearance, strength and durability are determined by the shape and method of connecting the links. It can be strict and practical or, conversely, original and frivolous. Depends on how often the accessory will be worn and what preferences its owner has.
Branded designer gold ones are much more expensive than those made in little-known workshops.
If finances make it possible to purchase an expensive accessory, then you can safely go to a large brand jewelry store. There will definitely be exclusive and unique things there. But if you don’t want to overpay for the “name,” you can choose the model you like in the catalog and order it from a jewelry workshop.
Durability and design
Men, compared to women, lead a more mobile and active lifestyle. It is a fact. That’s why a man’s chain must be very strong. These accessories look quite impressive. They represent an intricacy of a large number of strong links. Decoration clasps are usually massive and tight.
The design of the chains is usually quite strict. They look impressive and voluminous. Young guys prefer chains of medium length and thickness. Older men wear flat, wide accessories that emphasize life experience, status and taste. Elderly people use chains to wear crosses, amulets or talismans.
Material of manufacture
Different types of gold are used for men's accessories. The most common is yellow. The familiar yellow color speaks of high cost and exclusivity. Very often, men choose inexpensive gold-dyed jewelry. However, gold-plated chains do not last long for men and very soon lose their original appearance.
The second most popular type of gold is white. White color can be given by three metals that are used as impurities. This is platinum, palladium or nickel. The most expensive is considered to be a chain made of white gold based on platinum. It is characterized by strength and durability, unlike products made with nickel.
Nickel significantly reduces the cost of a gold accessory, and can also cause allergies and, as a result, a rash.
Standard standards for gold jewelry: 375, 500, 585, 750 and 958. But most often in jewelry stores, 585 and 750 samples are presented.
What are they?
Men wear chains not only on their necks, but also on their hands. Both options are equally popular.
Typically, such products for men are used as independent decoration or together with a pendant. Most often, the chain has large decorative weaving. In addition, there are models that complement various inserts, for example, stones or pearls. It is also worth noting that such chains are most often hollow. They look more voluminous, but at the same time have little weight.
There are also stylish web chains or plaits. They are suitable for young men and are almost invisible on the neck. Products that are too long can be tied into a knot at the bottom if necessary.
If we talk about hand chains, they usually have a rather simple appearance. At the same time, they are also distinguished by high quality. The thickness of such products depends on the size of the male wrist. So, on a wide one, a massive decoration will look more appropriate. And skinny men should choose more elegant accessories.
How long is the accessory?
Everyone chooses the length of the accessory that he likes. Everyone has different tastes, some like the chain to fit tightly to the neck, while others, on the contrary, want it to hang on the chest. Basically, all manufacturers adhere to standard decoration length systems. The chain length must always be a multiple of five. This does not depend on what material the product is made from.
The length of the jewelry starts from 40 cm. The smallest sizes are 40, 45 cm. The next length reaches 50, 55 cm, this is considered the most universal size for any man. Even overweight men can choose this size. Longer chains have a length of 60, 65, 70, 75 cm. Such options are very rare in stores, since few people like to wear a very long accessory.
For reference!
Long chains are suitable for those guys who want to wear amulets or talismans.
Metal and weaving
The main metals used to make men's chains - gold and silver - have remained consistently popular for many centuries. Gold items are versatile and elegant, able to emphasize status and fit into any look. For example, a product made of multi-colored gold will add success, and men who are more strapped for money can choose a lightweight option, in which the chain is visually perceived as massive and large, but will be light in weight.
Silver men's chains can be no less interesting, especially since today various types of processing of such products are available - rhodium plating, oxidation, blackening, engraving. A budget option is gilded silver jewelry, which in appearance is almost indistinguishable from gold. A beautiful and durable steel chain can emphasize your unbending strength and will.
The appearance of the decoration depends not only on the metal, but also on the weaving. The most popular, combining simplicity and expressiveness, include:
- Anchor, in which the links in the chain are connected perpendicularly. This decoration can be given to a teenager or young man no older than 20–22 years old.
- Armor weaving means that all the links of the chain are located in the same plane. Thanks to the special cutting of the elements, which gives the jewelry a bright shine, such a chain will appeal to a man who wants to emphasize his financial and social status.
Intricate gold patterns
The range of chains can be diversified by different types of weaving, of which there are no less in men's chains than in women's. Traditionally, “male” types of weaving are divided into the following types and subtypes: anchor (sea anchor) and armored, which, in turn, can be as follows:
- figaro;
- snake;
- bismarck
Based on the self-explanatory name, it is clear that anchor weaving visually resembles an anchor chain - its links are at right angles to each other. A sea anchor is distinguished only by the fact that each link has a membrane that makes it more durable. As a rule, in men's models of this type of weaving, the links are made in an oval shape. This type of weaving is considered unisex, that is, suitable for both women and men. But in the case of men's models, the chains are made more massive, which will not allow them to be given or bought to a lady, even despite the democratic design.
Another interesting feature of anchor weaving is that only in this technique do jewelers create inflated men's chains. This option may be of interest to those who want to purchase a massive gold chain, which will not put too much pressure on the neck - it is hollow. In addition, due to the lower consumption of gold than in full-weight models, the price of a men's blown gold chain will be more pleasant for the family budget. But this type has one serious drawback - the fragility of the links. If one such blown element is accidentally bent in half, it may break and it will not be possible to restore its original appearance.
Armored gold weaving at first glance resembles anchor weaving, but its distinctive feature is that all the links are in the same plane to each other. It also has polished, flattened edges. This is very convenient, since the entire surface of the chain adheres to the man’s neck and does not twist, like anchor weaving. Over the years, jewelers have come up with a large number of interesting varieties of shell-type, which allow you to create original chains. For example, figaro is distinguished by the fact that all its links lying in the same plane have different sizes. They are arranged alternately, for example, three elements of the same size, then a larger link, again three smaller ones, and so on. This forms an interesting pattern.
The weaving called “snake” is translated from English as “snake”. Indeed, the edges of the gold product resemble a snake, sparkling with precious scaly skin. The links in this version are convex and round in shape, they fit tightly to each other, which creates the illusion of snake skin. Also, some jewelers call this variety “lace”. Snake is also found in women's models, but men's versions are distinguished by larger links.
The classic and chic style of gold men's chains is Bismarck weaving, which, in turn, has many subtypes.
These are links densely intertwined with each other: three or four links simultaneously fit into each other, creating a very strong and at the same time beautiful weaving. The appearance of such chains is so unusual that it can take a lot of time to look at the intricate weaves. But Bismarck also has several significant disadvantages:
- the first is the price of the gold product, which is significantly higher than that of other types of weaving;
- the second is the difficulty of cleaning.
The fact is that a bismarck, as a rule, consists of numerous small links that are extremely difficult to clean on your own. At the same time, they quickly become clogged with dust and sebum. From time to time, such a men's gold chain will have to be taken to a jewelry workshop for specialized cleaning.
How to wear
The choice of product depends on the style of clothing and the circumstances of wearing. The cost of the chain should be commensurate with the cost of the clothing: for an expensive classic suit, you should choose an expensive gold or platinum chain. Thick products are worn in the evening, and they are not always appropriate in a classic look.
The choice of metal also depends on the style of clothing:
- bright gold chains look good with clothes of rich colors, but not necessarily bright ones;
- matte yellow and white gold look harmonious with clothes of any range;
- Rose gold models are best left for informal wear.
As a gift, it is better to choose gold chains made of white or yellow gold. Firstly, this is a classic option that suits both a formal suit and a casual style. Secondly, they are durable and not subject to corrosion.
As for the decor of chains, metal products without additional decorations remain a universal option. The fashion of recent seasons allows you to wear chains with pendants, which allows you to diversify your look. It is appropriate to wear pendants in a “masculine” style - crosses, skulls, sabers, keys, compasses, stars, anchors, various military paraphernalia, as well as zodiac signs.
Men's chains can be decorated with stones, but such models are suitable only for special occasions. Typically, products are decorated with dark or transparent stones - for example, diamonds or cubic zirconia.
Jewelry with a pendant is more suitable for casual and informal style
It is important to wear men's chains correctly:
- thin chains (thickness 2-3 mm) are appropriate only for teenagers, young men and thin, short men;
- products of medium thickness (4-5 mm) are the most optimal and universal choice, since they can be worn by men of all ages and sizes;
- massive chains (6-20 mm) are best worn solo - this is a status accessory that will become the main accent in the image;
- products with large links and voluminous weaving are appropriate for men of large build.
Several recommendations on how to determine the size of a chain for a woman’s neck.
There are several ways to determine the size of a chain for a woman’s neck. Each jewelry store lists the sizes of neck chains. If you are going to purchase this jewelry through an online store, then in this case you can find out the size of the product in the product card. We recommend buying a silver chain for men or women on the website pravzhizn.ru. When choosing a chain, you should pay attention first of all to the length and type of weaving.
Today, fashionistas have the following length options:
- 40 cm. Very short chain. It goes along the neck and is not suitable for every representative of the fair half of humanity. It can be purchased for young girls and very thin people.
- 45 cm. Slightly longer than the previous version. The chain will lie just below the neck. This length option will look very romantic on the neck of a young girl along with a heart-shaped pendant.
- 50 cm. This is a standard length option that will suit many girls and women. If you are going to give a chain as a gift, then you can choose the option with this length.
- 55 cm or more is suitable for tall girls and women of large build.
Many people believe that this is a universal accessory that is easy to choose for every person. First of all, buyers focus on the weight of the product and the style of weaving, but another important selection criterion is the length. An incorrectly chosen chain length can visually make your neck short, ruin a spectacular dress or shirt, emphasize your age, or make your chin appear more massive.
Universal chain length
The rules for choosing the length of a chain are similar to the rules for choosing a necklace and other neck jewelry. The most universal length of jewelry is 40-50 cm for women and 50-60 cm for men. You can hang a pendant or pendant on such a chain and wear it with any outfit. A length of 50-60 cm will visually lengthen a woman’s neck.
Those with thin and long necks can afford chains that fit close to the neck. They look elegant with off-the-shoulder clothing and boat necklines. Mature women should shift the emphasis from the neck to the décolleté, so the chain should be longer. If you hang a massive pendant on it, it will distract from imperfect skin or a flabby neck.
The length of a woman's chain is directly related to height. If your height does not exceed 165 cm, chains with a length of 40-50 cm are suitable for you. For a height of 165-170 cm, any chains are suitable; women taller than 170 cm can wear longer products. Chubby girls should avoid short chains: give preference to elongated models.
A chain for a child should not fit tightly to the neck or be too long, and its weaving should be strong enough so that the child does not tear the expensive jewelry. Typically the length of such a chain is 30-35 cm.
For overweight people with thick necks, chains longer than 55 cm are suitable. The same applies to male bodybuilders with impressive muscles.
A non-standard chain, 70-80 cm long, can be worn as an evening accessory. Wrap it twice around your neck or wear it in a row over a closed or off-the-shoulder dress. A long chain should not be too thick and massive, otherwise it will visually weigh down the image. It is also worth remembering that the chain cannot touch the neckline or edge of the garment, be it a men's shirt or a women's dress. It won't look nice.
How to choose a chain size for a man? We decide on the length and thickness...
The diameter of the chain is determined by the proportions of your body. Remember that chains less than 3 mm thick are usually women's, so it is better to discard them immediately. The optimal thickness for an athletic man is 5-6 mm, but the more massive your torso is, the wider the chain should be.
The length of the chain depends on the width of your neck and whether you will be hanging a pendant on it. The length of men's chains starts from 50-55 cm (the chain lies at the level of the base of the collarbone). For chains with pendants and wearing under clothes, chains of 60 cm or more are required. Remember that short chains are suitable for work and sports, they should be thick; a medium-length accessory is more catchy - it is worn in an informal setting, sometimes over clothes.
How to care?
Each lady decides for herself: how and when to wear a chain. Some take it off when they come home, others do not want to part with the decoration even at night. But the chain still needs to be removed, since without proper care it will lose its attractiveness.
A well-maintained product will serve its owner for a very long time. It is necessary to protect the chain from exposure to any chemicals. If your jewelry is made of gold or platinum, this does not mean that it can be negatively affected by chemicals.
These metals do not oxidize and do not enter into chemical reactions, but aggressive agents will definitely not benefit your favorite jewelry.
Try to protect the chain from sudden temperature changes. This can lead to cracks in the metal and loss of its original shine.
The accessory must be cleaned periodically. It is carried out using a regular soap solution, to which you can add a few drops of ammonia. Simply dip the chain in this solution and then gently wipe with a dry cloth or small towel.
Types of weaving
On sale you can find different options for weaving men's chains. Let's look at the most popular ones.
Anchor
With this weaving, the links are arranged perpendicularly. They can have a round, oval or rectangular shape. The appearance of the accessory is similar to a ship's chain. Such chains are quite practical - if they get dirty, the jewelry can be easily cleaned. Most often, anchor chains are purchased for teenagers or young people under 30 years of age.
Venetian
The links of the chain consist of thin, but at the same time wide strips of metal. They look like a cube with two faces missing. These jewelry can highlight a man's status. Chains of this type can go well with business style clothing.
Pantsirnoe
Due to the fact that all the links of the chain are located in the same plane, the product has a very smooth surface. They are most often bought by adults, already established men. After all, they fit perfectly into a business image.
Career
Many experts call this weaving Figaro. The chain consists of oval and round links, which are arranged alternately. Such jewelry always has a tag indicating the number of long and short links. Usually they are bought by people of creative professions who want to stand out from the crowd.
Double diamond
The links of such chains are located either in one or in several rows. In addition, they all have a diamond shape. Almost all men can purchase such products. However, they are most suitable for those who prefer to engage in extreme sports.
Bismarck or "fox tail"
A chain with such weaving consists of several rows of round links that are fastened together in a certain way. They look best on men with a large build.
Products made from bronze look especially beautiful.
Types of weaving for men
Men's braiding is made from thick wire, with chunky links and a masculine style.
Anchor
It got its name because of its resemblance to an anchor chain. It is durable and easy to repair.
This is the simplest weaving, the links of which are connected perpendicular to each other. There are several types:
- classic anchor, consists of oval links and is used for chains with pendants;
- sea anchor, inside each oval there is a jumper in the middle. This makes the chain even stronger and more interesting;
- double anchor - one link consists of 2 rings.
Figaro
The second name is Cartier, because of the special love of the Cartier jewelry house for it. A distinctive feature of Figaro is the alternation of links of different shapes. One long + 3 short + one long and so on; one oval + 3 circles.
Rhombus
Diamond refers to armor weaving. The links are made in the shape of a diamond and are connected in twos or threes. The first 2 links are connected to each other in the middle, and the next 2 links are attached to their ends.
Cuts are made on the side surface of the link, which are ground to form a flat chain.
How to choose a men's gold chain by weaving
According to the production method, chains are divided into: hand-woven, machine-woven and stamped. The first type involves the assembly and weaving of links by the hands of a craftsman without the use of any technical equipment. Since this is painstaking work that requires a lot of time and effort, and also gives a unique result, such chains usually have a very high price. For the second type, a specialized technique is used, which makes it possible to obtain decoration by bending a thin metal wire. Stamped products are a complex of several dies connected to each other without soldering, so they are usually much cheaper than previous types, but are also short-lived.
In general, chain weaving is not at all divided into male and female, but is considered “unisex”. It just happened according to tradition that some options have more elegant links, so they are more suitable for girls. And some, on the contrary, are coarser and more massive, so they look better on men.
Let's look at the most common weaving options suitable for men.
Anchor weaves are popular all over the world among both sexes and different ages. The links are presented in the form of an anchor chain; they can be not only oval, but also of other shapes, and perpendicular alignment is used. As a standard, they have the same length, but models are also allowed where rings of different lengths alternate with each other. This manufacturing technology is characterized by maximum reliability, since over a long period of operation it does not deform or stretch under normal wearing conditions. The finished accessory also boasts practicality, because it hardly collects dirt and dust inside the links. There are several varieties of this type of weaving:
- double - the links of two anchor chains are soldered together, making the products look more voluminous;
- triple - similar to the previous one, but 3 chains are used. There are also options with a large number of welded rows, but 4 is the maximum among those frequently purchased;
- rollo, or belzer - the main feature of the twist is the absolutely round shape of the rings. You can often hear the name “Chopard”, since it was the fashion house Chopard that contributed to the popularization of this type of weaving;
- marine - inside each element of the chain there is a small partition that makes the accessory stronger and more reliable;
- Giotto - the rings themselves are thin, but made with a large diameter, somewhat similar to rings for curtains, which is why you can also find the name “curtain”. At the same time, variations are often offered, where not only single, but also double or triple links. It is recommended to wear such chains as a separate accessory without adding pendants;
- Venetian - the main difference from others is the wide thin links of a standard square, but can also be rectangular. A little more material is added at their corners to add strength to the product. One block allows from 1 to 3 elements;
- cord - involves a twisted chain shape, similar to a rope with steps in the form of waves. This effect is possible due to the soldering of several links that fit into each other two or three at a time, through a certain number of elements;
- Singaporean - has been extremely popular for a long time, as it has an incredible appearance. Such decorations glow brightly when exposed to sunlight, giving off beautiful shimmers. This is achieved due to the fact that the links are slightly curved, and the chain has a scrolled appearance. Such elegance allows both men and women to use the accessory either alone or with a pendant.
- The next category of weaving is the armored type. Although it is similar to the anchor one, it still differs in that the links are flattened, more even, and connected in one plane. Due to this, these jewelry are stronger and more practical, since they do not cling to clothing and do not create discomfort for the skin. They are usually additionally polished with special equipment. Let's look at the main types of weaving included in this category:
- Figaro, or Cartier - elements of different sizes alternate with each other in compliance with a certain pattern. The classic version is that every 3 round links are connected by one oblong element, but in general, a wide variety of variations of repeating patterns are possible;
- rhombus - based on the name, you can understand that the elements have a diamond shape, and each of them is connected not only to one, but to several neighboring ones, thereby increasing the strength of the product. It is almost impossible to break such a chain. Moreover, if we are talking about a double or triple diamond, when decorations are created with 2 or 3 links in width. Thanks to its minimalist appearance, this is the most versatile option, suitable for people of any gender and age;
- Nonna – the name comes from Spanish and means “grandmother’s weaving”. Vitier involves connecting large links into a simple pattern, inside which small ones are enclosed;
- snake, or snake - also called jewelry cord. The distance between the rings is kept to a minimum, due to which they are compacted, giving the product a certain shape with a round cross-section (oval and rectangular are less common). A hollow chain with a slight zigzag effect actually resembles a snake, which is why this name was chosen for this type of twisting. It usually sands well, so it has a smooth surface and does not scratch the skin. However, you should be careful with such decorations: you should not bend them, otherwise you can easily break them or cause other significant damage;
- snail, paperclip, double helix - all names correspond to one type, which involves the connection of links twisted into a spiral, reminiscent of both a well-known stationery item and a mollusk shell.
The third category is Bismarck, or Kaiser, Cardinal weaving. It includes weaves with tightly placed links, but without sacrificing sophistication. The elements themselves have a complex structure, as they consist of similar particles, but smaller in size and directed in different directions. When triple elements are combined in such a weave, it is called Triple Bismarck. To make the product look less rough, the links are made less massive, and this decision does not in any way affect the strength of the product. This group includes the following list of weaves:
- Byzantine - has many other names, such as Boston, royal or “fox tail”. The result is massive and heavy chains in the shape of a square, oval or circle, consisting of links of the same type, sequentially connected into an original pattern. This weaving is done entirely by hand;
- American, or whim, is a reliable and durable option; the elements are intertwined with each other in a special way, which is why the product has a three-dimensional appearance. Modern pattern designs are similar to those seen on python skin, which is why the weave is sometimes named after the animal;
- Persian, or chain mail - the links are arranged in 2 rows and inclined in different directions. The semi-Persian subtype is also known, when the elements are in the same row and at the same angle;
- turtle – a certain number of elements (standard 4) are covered with a figured gold plate, like a turtle’s shell. Despite such a frivolous name, the decoration looks strict and goes well with business-style suits;
- spike - the links fit tightly to each other and point in the same direction, forming a V-shaped pattern. The accessory turns out to be voluminous and quite heavy in appearance;
- rope, or plait - tightly placed elements are connected, creating the illusion of a twisted rope, and from a distance it looks like a sparkling thread.
There are other types of weaving that cannot be classified into any of the categories listed above. However, they are also popular and have their own characteristics.
A weave that creates the image of the eye of some predator preparing to attack can be called a bird's eye, the eye of a panther or a python. It is distinguished by excellent reliability and durability, looks good on both thin and thick necks.
When 3 small chains, each of which is made with a different type of weaving, are combined and intersect with each other, then such weaving is called a braid. Sometimes individual chains may even be made from different materials.
All author's, original weavings are called fantasy or glider. Creators can use individual elements from traditional techniques, adding something of their own, or create a completely unique product.
Thick or thin
The chain can be thick or thin. When choosing a specific option, you need to focus on your own preferences.
The features of the figure are also of great importance. Large people should choose more massive accessories. Slender men need to pay attention to more laconic accessories.
Clasp type
Due to a poor-quality lock, there is a risk of losing your jewelry. Therefore, when choosing an expensive accessory, you should pay attention to the type of clasp, especially if a man leads an active and mobile lifestyle.
Types of fasteners for men's chains:
- springel;
- carbine;
- box lock.
Spring locks are typical for thin gold chains, so they are extremely rare on men's chains. They have a low degree of reliability and durability. Therefore, the spring lock will break within a year after purchasing the jewelry if, while wearing it, the clasp is often unfastened and fastened.
Carbine locks are stronger than spring locks, but they are also not suitable for massive products. Carabiners can firmly hold light to medium weight men's chains. But with intensive use, they will still fail.
Box locks have a high degree of reliability and durability. Since such a lock does not contain springs, but consists of a single piece of metal, it does not break or wear out. But such locks are installed only on jewelry of medium and heavy weight.
It will be much easier to choose a suitable chain for a man if he himself takes part in this. But when you plan to present the jewelry as a gift, you will have to handle it yourself, following the recommendations.
The main thing is to be guided not only by appearance, but also by quality characteristics.
A man's style consists of many elements, of which the most important cannot be singled out. Without any of them - hairstyle, wardrobe, accessories, jewelry - those around you will feel like they are missing something important. Of course, there is a foundation without which you can’t go anywhere. These are clothes, shoes and hats. Other elements add zest, status, and emphasize individual character traits or appearance.
Almost every man wears a chain as jewelry or a symbol of wealth. Choosing an accessory is not as simple as it seems at first glance. Ideally, the appearance of the product and the way it lies on the skin should be pleasing. The chain should not introduce dissonance into the image. Let's consider a few nuances:
- Accessories should match the style and color of your wardrobe, jewelry and other accessories. If you wear leather clothes with steel-colored elements, then a thick gold chain will not harmonize with the look;
- The thickness of the model should be selected based on the constitution of the body. For some, a thick men's chain around the neck is suitable, while for others, wearing thin, elegant items is recommended. Decoration needs to be measured. Once you put on the chain, you will immediately understand whether it fits or not. And those around you will immediately notice the discrepancy;
ADVICE. The shorter the chain, the more visible it is. There are both pros and cons to this. This way you can show off the combination of your jewelry with the overall style and show off the product. But at the same time, this arrangement of the chain will draw attention to the neck and collarbones. It is necessary to monitor the condition of the skin in the neckline of a shirt or T-shirt.
- The length of the model depends on your body structure and your preferences. For massive men with pumped necks, chains 60-75 centimeters long are ideal. It is best for thin and short people to wear jewelry no longer than 50 centimeters. Of course, if you are not hiding a super amulet under your clothes =)
- If you prefer to wear a shirt or T-shirt unbuttoned with 3-4 buttons, then you can wear medium-length models or two chains: a short thick one and a thin long one;
- The material is of great importance. In order to look stylish and courageous, it is not necessary to “hang” hundreds of grams of precious metals on yourself. Men's chains made of surgical steel perfectly highlight the positive aspects, fit almost any style and are much cheaper than gold ones. Titanium accessories look elegant and unusual. They are not that common, so you are guaranteed interested looks. Do not forget that steel is stronger than gold or silver and is less susceptible to aggressive substances;
- Weaving plays an important role. And the point is not only in the beauty of the decoration, but also in the fact that simple weaves are easier to repair after a break or crease. It is worth choosing chains with weaving for men. Externally, such models are simpler, rougher and more brutal;
- Pay attention to the locking mechanism. Be sure to check the functionality of the lock.
And that's not all. Each of us is very individual. Therefore, it is necessary to approach the choice of accessories individually. It’s great if you can afford several chains - one for going out, one for everyday wear, and a few more that you can match with different clothes. If there is a strict dress code at work, then you can choose convenience as a criterion or not wear jewelry.
Let's look at the choice of chain in more detail:
- Length of chains around the neck. If your clothing size is 44-46, then the optimal length would be up to 45 centimeters. Such models are perfect for those who wear a neck-length chain along with a pendant. For sizes 48-52, it is better to choose jewelry up to 45 centimeters long. Products with a length of 50-55 centimeters are considered basic and are suitable for most men with different body types. Over 55 centimeters can be afforded by large, pumped up or overweight people. Or rather, such chains look better on them than on thin and small ones;
- Weaving chains for men. Here you should rely on your own taste, but models that have large links of hand weaving are considered traditional for men - Bismarck, armored, anchor, Python. A set of bracelet and chain made in the same weave looks good;
- Thickness and weight. When purchasing an accessory, think about your body type or learn more about the person you are going to give it to. For athletes and men with a large build, we recommend thick models with large links. The best option is one-piece products. They have no voids and are resistant to stretching and twisting. Here it is worth remembering that gold alloys are stronger than silver products. But the most durable products are made from jewelry or medical steel;
- Chains with a cross or pendant. Pendants are worn on chains, which should weigh approximately twice as much as a pendant or cross. Do not buy “blown” products - they may wear out when they come into contact with the pendant. Pendants made of gold are worn on the same chain, silver ones on a silver one. Typically, models with anchor or armor weaving are used to wear a cross. The length of such a chain is 55-60 centimeters;
- Clasp. When trying on an accessory, pay attention to how the locking mechanism works. It should open with some effort. This means that the spring is not designed and the lock is securely locked. The carabiners are slightly larger than a link, but should fit through the suspension mount.
This is approximately how you need to choose a chain. There are two things left to say. Precious metals are of course cool, status and all that. But men's chains made of steel will allow you to create a style that, if you use gold, you won't have enough money :) By the way, if business style is closer, here is an article for you.
You rarely meet a person who has no taste at all. Therefore, our advice is to trust yourself, your feelings and desires. And everything will work out for you. Good luck!
Technological features of weaving
There are several weaving methods that allow you to create unique jewelry:
- Machine knitting is performed on modern equipment and is based on process automation. The latest technology makes it possible to weave jewelry whose links are less than a millimeter thick.
- Handwork is used in the manufacture of types of weaving that cannot be done on a machine. The minimum weight of handmade chains is from 6 grams. The impeccable quality of workmanship is determined by the degree of professionalism of the chain jeweler. The painstaking weaving of jewelry chains consists of winding gold or silver wire around a workpiece and cutting it into rings of the same size. The links are compressed using pliers. The connector of each link is soldered. Labor-intensive work is highly valued.
- The stamped chain is assembled from blanks. The links are threaded into one another without soldering. The finished decoration may become deformed, twisted and less durable.
Product weight and thickness
The size and weight of a neck chain for an adult depend largely on the method of weaving and the links. On sale you can find thicknesses from 2 to 20 mm. But according to prevailing stereotypes, the standard width of men's accessories should be at least 4 mm.
Standard thickness:
- From 2-3mm - simple weaving with thin links;
- From 4-5 mm is an average thickness that can withstand the weight of a gold pendant on a chain.
- From 5-20 mm - thick chains with a complex pattern and large links.
If you plan to wear it with a pendant or cross, please note that the weight should be twice as much as the pendants.
Otherwise, the chain may break under the weight, which will lead to additional expenses for repairing the gold accessory.
Due to the large thickness, the weight can reach 50-60 grams, although this is not the limit. For a person who has not worn massive jewelry around his neck, they may seem uncomfortable. But over time, the feeling of inconvenience will disappear, and the accessory will become part of its owner.
The difference between full and hollow chains
- When choosing a chain, you will pay attention to the difference in weight of jewelry of the same length and volume. Regardless of what type of weaving is used, the chains can be: Hollow - these are chains that combine lightness and volume. They are made of wire that is hollow inside and have a low weight and differ in external thickness. Complex decorative types of weaving provide them with solidity, and the affordable price explains their popularity.
- Full-weight chains, while visually similar, are heavier than hollow ones, and the cost is higher. If you have a desire to have jewelry that is resistant to deformation, comfortable to wear and durable, a full-weight chain will answer all your needs.
- Snakes are distinguished by their round cross-section, and got their name due to their resemblance to plastic snakes, from the English snake - snake. The elements of unusual twisting are connected in series, and the product is very durable.
How to determine the chain length:
Option 1. There is an old way: take a lace, wrap it around your neck and secure it. In this case, the lace should not press or dangle. Remove the lace and measure its length, then multiply it by two. As a result, you will get the optimal chain length. You can take the same lace, stand in front of a mirror and tie it the way you like. Fasten the lace and measure its length. With the first measurement option, you can wear the chain as an independent accessory. To wear a pendant, cross or pendant, you should choose a longer chain.
Option 2. Measure your neck circumference using a soft tape measure, holding it parallel to the floor. Add 5-10 cm to the resulting figure. With these measurements, the chain will lie just below the neck. Well, if you measure the length of the finished chain that you like, do not take into account the lock.
Modern men, unlike the nobles of past centuries, are less inclined to buy jewelry for themselves. The consistent exception to this long-term observation is the men's gold chain. Among other accessories, men usually prefer only a gold wedding ring. But gold chains for men are a symbol of wealth and style, and therefore they are especially scrupulous about their choice. Unlike women, who tend to make purchases in accordance with the feelings that overwhelm them at a particular moment, men approach the issue of purchasing a gold chain wisely and carefully. Moreover, before going directly to the jewelry store, you need to resolve several key issues, which will then help you quickly decide on something new.
You need to figure out the style of the product that you would like to see on yourself every day, what length it will be, type of weave, weight, and so on. A person who wants to present such a precious gift to a man has even more worries. In this case, you need to not only try to find out from the future happy owner of the gold chain his preferences and tastes, but also try to visually determine how long the chain will suit him. Let's take a closer look at these and many other nuances of buying a gold men's chain.
Most popular chains
This weaving was invented for heavy chains weighing more than 100 grams, but it turned out to be too beautiful and practical to remain aside. So this method began to be used for the production of thin light chains. It can be made either manually or using machinery. By the way, Bismarck weaving is especially popular in Russia.
This weaving is often called “Byzantine” and “Royal” - and all options are correct. The ornate interweaving of rings makes it one of the most beautiful and feminine weaves. Of course, this also affects the strength - such a chain will withstand heavy pendants.
Fox tail chain weaving is often equated to Byzantine chain weaving. But even at first glance, the difference is striking. “Fox tail” - weaving is more smooth and dense. Its links fit into a strong chain like a puzzle. A thick chain of this type of weaving cannot be broken by hand.
You can guess its name from the appearance of the chain. Weaving differs sharply from others in the fastening of the links - in a “rope” they are tightly connected to each other and twisted with a rope. This feature makes the chain strong and allows you to wear heavy pendants and crosses. At the same time, it turns out to be so self-sufficient and elegant that it can be worn without additional pendants.
The exceptionally feminine Rose or Courage weave is impressive. Its details in the form of buds are made not of simple links, but of spiral ones. Due to this design, the chain looks voluminous and airy, but in fact has good strength.
“Caprice” or “Python” is another type of durable weaving. Most often it is done manually. It is one of the few chains that can be worn independently without additional accessories. Beautiful, laconic, airy.
Popular brands
Many companies produce jewelry. However, the most popular among them are manufacturers such as Baraka and Cartier.
Baraka
Just one glance at the jewelry of this famous brand is enough to immediately want to buy it for yourself. After all, there are very interesting interweavings of links here, and there are also various combinations of noble metals. In addition, some exclusive chains are decorated with diamonds or zircons. However, the highlight of jewelry from Italian manufacturers is the clasp inlaid with precious stones.
All products have a stylish and solid appearance. In addition, each of them has the mark of a given brand. There are several stores in Russia where you can purchase Baraka products.
Cartier
If a man has jewelry from this brand, this indicates his good taste. All products from Cartier are made in a certain style, which is characteristic only of this company. Chains are made from various golds: white, yellow, and red. In some cases they can be combined. Many models are made with onyx, diamond, black enamel inserts or other decorative additions.
In addition, it is worth noting that all products are made by hand. For example, you can order a chain with your initials engraved on one or more links.
This product will be a wonderful gift for your beloved man.
Secrets of mastery
There are four main technologies for producing hollow chains:
- Wrapping
On a chain knitting machine, the iron core is wrapped with a gold plate, and the links are soldered using an open flame. This method produces the heaviest, but not very high-quality hollow chains. The appearance of chains (especially armored and anchor weaving) is spoiled by the folds of metal that form when winding the wire on a needle.
- Cladding
Two plates, made of gold and metal, are “tightly” bonded to each other at high temperatures under high pressure. Then the resulting sheet is rolled, cut into strips, which are rolled into tubes. It is important to maintain geometric proportions and correct orientation when feeding wire to the chain knitting machine. In general, the production cycle is long and complex. Gold chains are characterized by high quality and excellent weight-to-length ratio.
- Hitch
A core of a certain profile is wrapped with a gold plate on a special machine, which allows solder to be placed inside during the process of twisting the plate (it is necessary for further soldering of the links). The chain obtained in this way is of good quality. This technology is by far the most common due to its ease of implementation.
- Window system
In such chains there is absolutely no gap for etching. The wire consists of three concentric layers: a gold core, a middle layer of base metal, and a top layer of standard gold alloy. To allow acid to penetrate, windows are milled into the links. The popularization of this method is hampered by the complexity of producing the starting wire and the increase in etching time.
Which one to choose?
Since there are now a huge number of different types of chains in jewelry stores, it can be difficult to make the right choice. If you have decided on the length and thickness of the chain, all that remains is . The most popular options for men are:
- Anchor,
- Pantsirnoe,
- Lace,
- Bismarck,
- Figaro,
- Triple Chopard.
Each weave has its own subspecies. Basically, they differ in the number of links. The more rings intertwined with each other, the more massive the chain looks. It is also important to pay attention to the lock. It should open and close easily. Give preference to large carabiner locks. Practice has shown that these types of locks are the most reliable and strong. Do not forget that it is better to buy such jewelry in special stores, and not on the Internet or kiosks.
Do you wear gold chains?
Not really
For a chain to look beautiful, it must suit the man’s build and social status. Therefore, young guys should not buy very massive accessories. In order for the product to last for a long time, you need to give preference to jewelry made of gold, platinum and silver.
How to choose a chain for a man?
When choosing a chain for a man, you need to consider not only what pendant to wear it with, but also the appearance of the future owner. The larger the man, the more massive the chain can be. The choice of thickness and length depends on the desire of the owner, but a chain that is too thin on a man’s neck will be somewhat inappropriate. The average thickness of a men's chain is approximately 4-6 mm. The length of the chain depends on individual preferences, as well as height and build. Many men choose a chain that rests loosely at the base of the neck and is visible from under an open shirt collar. If a man is of average build, then the minimum length of such a chain will be no more than 50-55 cm. Usually chains with a cross are chosen a little longer - 60 cm or more. Wearing a cross is supposed to be on the body, and it is not at all necessary that it be visible. Pendants should match the impressive appearance of the chain. For example, a cross, amulets or other jewelry on a large chain should also be large. There is a rule that the weight of the pendant should be approximately one third of the weight of the chain. The colors of the chain and pendant should match, although contrasting solutions are also possible when 2-3 colors of metal are used inside the pendant itself. For sporty and business style, stylists recommend short chains. Among men in creative professions, medium-length chains are common. It is preferable to wear such chains on clothing. The massiveness of the chain is achieved by the thickness of the metal from which it is made and various weaving details. Usually, on men of large build, chains with voluminous and intricate weaving are harmoniously combined. In fact, chains can be either voluminous and embossed, or simple and smooth.
Which metal is better to choose? Gold, silver, steel, and in rare cases platinum are used for men's chains. Gold chains emphasize the status of the owner and demonstrate success. There may be chains with multi-colored gold. But there is no point in buying overly heavy, thick gold chains if you are not a prominent representative of the creative professions. Very little time has passed since 1990. Elements of style from the 90s are already appearing in modern fashion, but thick gold chains can still cause more dubious impressions. Then in the 1990s, chains quickly gained weight. These jewelry were worn by people who did not deserve respect, so the 200-gram chains became a kind of symbol of bulls from the 90s. Then 200 grams was not the limit, but rather the beginning of serious decoration. There were specimens weighing 500-800 grams and even a kilogram or more.
Affordable jewelry Less expensive, but seemingly voluminous and impressive, are “hollow” gold chains. But this is also their disadvantage, since if the link is not carefully bent, breakage may occur. Unfortunately, it will be very difficult to restore such a chain. Gilded silver chains. Their cost is significantly lower than gold ones, but they will look beautiful. The main thing is to purchase such a chain from a manufacturer with a reliable reputation, since the layer of gold applied to the silver surface should not be too thin. Silver chains. If a thick gold chain can cause dubious associations, then with silver it is easier. Silver chains were not popular with the bulls of the 90s. This may be why silver chains, even to this day, enjoy priority over solid gold chains. And silver has always been valued in Rus'. White, pure and beautiful metal, like the personification of a snowy Russian winter. Jewelry designers offer various options for processing silver chains. For example, rhodium coating, which adds shine, oxidation, blackening, engraving. Caring for such chains will be much easier. Steel chains. They have become very popular lately. These chains evoke associations with masculinity, strength and will. In addition, the steel chain is a kind of protest against traditional jewelry values and luxury. At the same time, a steel chain can look even more stylish than gold jewelry if the whole image is harmonious and thoughtful.
Tips and advice on how to choose the perfect necklace for men
Choose the right length - 18-inch chains are preferred for smaller necks and then extend to the base of the neck; 20" chains will reach the collarbone, 22" chains will hang a few inches below the collarbone, 24" chains will hang a few inches above the sternum, and 30" chains will rest on the sternum.
Stick to your style – There are many styles of men's necklaces, which means the necklace you choose should express your style. Some include military-style dog tags mounted on ball chains and with text on them—often the owner's name and their medical information, rank, or religious preference. But if you want a decorative dog tag necklace, it is black, egg shaped, and the chain may look more fancy, and the tags may have a picture or some kind of raised design.
Then you have simple chains without any embellishment. The style of chain links often varies, as does the method of attachment and the metal used.
Other styles include religious emblems with crosses, shoulder pads or stars of David, etc. You also have chokers and pendants.
Chain Materials – Some chains are made of precious metals, others have steel ball chains, leather straps, rope and hemp cords, ribbons/colored cords.
Chain Length – You can choose a short, medium or long chain depending on the look you want to create.
Bismarck and rhombus
A men's gold chain around the neck, created with one of these weaves, is a great option. Bismarck is an old style, known since Soviet times. Massive rough links are connected by their edges. Weaving is suitable for men of large and medium build. Athletes also prefer such chains. They look quite brutal.
Rhombus - rhombic-shaped links lying in the same plane. Weaving suits absolutely every man. You definitely can't go wrong when choosing such an accessory.
Product width
How to choose a chain for a cross: find the optimal width. Jewelers produce several types of products:
- thin – 2-3 mm;
- average – 4-5 mm;
- massive – 6-17 mm.
The ideal option for a cross is a specimen 4-5 mm wide. Thick jewelry in its structure and appearance is more reminiscent of a necklace and is worn independently without any additional additions. Not only the length of a chain for a woman can be selected in accordance with her age and physique, but also the width. Usually young girls are given delicate jewelry. You also need to take into account your body composition, because thin jewelry greatly shortens the neck, making it visually look thicker. The older the woman, the larger the jewelry she needs to choose. For men, on the contrary, thin products generally do not suit them.
Metal selection
Next point. What metal can accessories be made of? Men's gold chains are very popular. The photo of each such accessory looks very attractive. But it's not just about appearance. If you are going to wear jewelry regularly, it should also be of high quality and expensive.
Of course, the ideal material is gold. This metal is always appreciated and looks great. When purchasing a chain, be sure to look at the sample. The most popular option is 585. The absence of a sample indicates a fake, and a very crude one at that. Even the simplest gold chain is not cheap. However, its presence indicates the wealth of the man. The main thing is not to overdo it. So as not to look like the textbook “new Russian” with a kilogram chain hanging around his neck.
A more affordable piece of jewelry is a silver chain. Nevertheless, this accessory also looks very elegant. Of course, it doesn’t catch the eye as much as a gold chain, but the pleasant soft shine of silver cannot help but attract the attention of others.
Platinum is not the most common material for men's chains, but no less interesting. Most likely, the untrained eye will mistake this metal for silver. It would seem that there is no point in overpaying. On the other hand, a man with refined taste will not be guided by anyone. It will be enough for him to know that his jewelry is expensive, exquisite, noble.
Children's jewelry
When choosing a chain for a child, first of all, pay attention to safety. Products made from noble metals (gold, silver) are excellent for delicate children's skin and almost never cause irritation. A gold or silver chain for a baby should not be too thick or short. There must be a cut on the lock ring, otherwise it is a dangerous thing. If the product has a sealed lock, then when caught, it will most likely not break, but will injure your neck. The ideal option is a decoration with a length of 40-45 cm, fine weaving. Before going to bed, swimming, going to the beach or sports training, it is better to remove the jewelry.
When purchasing jewelry as a gift, always be guided when choosing a weave to determine whether the gold chain can be lengthened/shortened in the future, because not every chain can be repaired. You can lengthen the golden thing by adding links. Items with such weaving can always be repaired:
- bismarck;
- anchor;
- armored;
- stream;
- Fox's tail.
Always pay attention to the quality of the lock. Children are not the only ones who should buy jewelry with a well-functioning lock. Sealed tightly, it makes the thing completely inconvenient to use. Select a case for storing things made of precious metal in advance. It would be better if it was a separate box, lined with satin fabric on the inside. You should not store jewelry mixed up; each chain should be kept separately to avoid oxidation and mechanical damage as a result of entanglement.