Did you know that the oldest sample of a necklace archaeologists found is from 25,000 years ago? These older versions were not similar in material to the ones we have today. They were made from bones, stone, shells and animal teeth. But as humanity evolved, so did the jewellery. Glass, beads and pottery were the next materials, and later metals were the prime materials. Necklaces have the power to transform an outfit and make or break a look. When combined the right way, you can look elegant, sophisticated, and cool.

Types of Necklaces

Chain

This is one of the most popular types of necklaces. It has a long history and is very simple yet versatile. It comes in many styles, sizes and designs, that it’s impossible to choose sometimes. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of maximalist or elegant and fine chain necklaces, the choices you encounter won’t disappoint you.

When you decide to buy a necklace like this, there are several things you should consider. One of the most important things is the links the chain is made of. Every manufacturer prefers one design. For example, the omega, herringbone and snake links can reshape and twist around your neck. Some people find this uncomfortable and avoid these links. If you don’t want the chain to move, go for curb, anchor, Figaro or rope links.

Always check if the chain is plated. This matters because after some time, the outer, top layer of the necklace might fade slightly. When this happens, you’ll start to see the metal that’s underneath, and it’s usually a different colour. This is not a pleasant sight and can ruin the whole necklace. You can re-plate it of course, but it’ll cost you a lot. So, if you’re looking for a chain to wear every day, look for a plated one.

There are 2 different clasps, lobster and ring-shaped clasp. Both of them are practical but the lobster style will last longer and it’s easier to use. Choose a chain with a medium thickness if you plan on wearing it with a pendant. When you combine the right thickness with the right size pendant, you get a nice, balanced chain.

If you’re on a budget but still want something nice and elegant, there are chains that are empty inside. These hollow chains are lighter and won’t cost you a lot of money. You just have to be careful because they are fragile and can break or dent easily.

Choker

A choker is a piece of jewellery that you wear close to your neck. It can vary in size but it’s usually around 35-40cm long. Chokers can be made of many different materials such as ribbon, gold, velvet, heavy thread or leather. They're very versatile and you can upgrade and design them as you wish. They're adaptable and by adding different pendants, you can change their style.

They can handle pearls, pendants, beads, pins and anything else you can imagine and design. This is the biggest advantage of chokers. Their power to transform and match any style you’re currently wearing gives them unlimited opportunities. They look very attractive and work best with V-necks and scoop necks.

Collar

The collar necklace is the ideal accessory for you if you enjoy wearing turtlenecks, boat necks, V-necks, and off-the-shoulder clothing. They're meant to stand close to your neck, around 1-2cm above the collarbone. They’re around 30-33cm long and can be made of many materials.

Some of the most beautiful ones are made from pearls, jewels and stones. You can also find them in a more casual version. This includes gold or silver collars, that aren’t so adorned. They still look elegant like fine chain necklaces but won’t grab a lot of attention.

Lariat

These necklaces have a specific rope shape and are of medium length. Some people know them as Y-shaped because they resemble the letter Y. It doesn’t have a clasp to lock it. You just slip it over your head. We say it has a rope shape because the whole chain together with the beads or other accessories creates a whole rope you can’t separate.

It has a very elegant and subtle look and works best with timeless pieces of clothing. They're sometimes very long, but you can adjust the length by wrapping it around your neck until you get the right length.

Locket

Lockets are one of the most traditional necklaces of all time. They're often family heirlooms and are passed down from one generation to another. The locket is made to hold a small picture inside. A picture of someone we hold near and dear. They're intimate pieces of jewellery that hold memories and have never lost popularity over the years. These necklaces come in a wide variety of chain lengths, materials, and shapes. Some women combine it with another shorter or longer minimalist chain necklace for a subtle layered look.

Opera

Opera necklaces, which typically measure 65-90 cm in length, are ideal for deep-necked gowns or blouses. Women wear this versatile jewellery at formal events. There's no length restriction. You can wear it as a single strand, wrap it around your neck, or create numerous layers by layering it with other necklaces. They come in many styles and materials, and you have plenty of opportunities to wear them.

What to Consider When Buying

Height

You should consider your height when buying a necklace. Your height is a consideration when choosing the best necklace for you. For women under 160 cm, necklaces from 40-50 cm appear ideal. If you have a petite body, a long necklace will only shorten you more. But if you’re over 170cm in height, all lengths will work. In some cases, longer ones look better because they highlight your height.

Neck Size

It might be quite helpful to measure your neck before getting a necklace, particularly if you wish to buy a choker. The quickest and easiest way to measure your neck is to carefully and tightly wrap a soft measuring tape around it. To get the measurement for a choker just add 5cm to the circumference you get. For pendants and other longer necklaces, add 10cm.

Body Type

Remember that where your necklace ends will be where people's attention will stop, so try to avoid wearing necklaces that stop in places you don't want to draw attention to. Women with smaller chests look amazing wearing long, layered necklaces, while those with larger busts should stay away from anything below the bust line.

Face Shape

The necklace has the power to draw attention to your best facial features and alter how others perceive your face. Explore and try on several lengths to determine which one is ideal for you. If you have a round shape, avoid chokers and short necklaces. If you have an oval-shaped face, you can wear anything you want. But if you have a long face, avoid long chains. They’ll only add to the length.