Key Takeaways
- Each type of necklace has a unique aesthetic, ranging from classic chain necklaces to pendant necklaces, chokers or sautoirs, suitable for various occasions and styles.
- Materials and designs range from precious metals and stones to fancy materials like leather and synthetic pearls, allowing for a wide choice depending on budget and usage.
- Some necklaces, such as bib necklaces or charm necklaces, carry cultural or personal meanings, adding a sentimental dimension to these accessories.
Discover an elegant and varied collection of gold-plated necklaces to suit every style. Explore our exclusive designs on Gisel B and find the perfect necklace for you or your loved ones!
Different Types of Necklaces for Women
Different Types of Necklaces for Women
1. Chain Necklaces
Chain necklaces are simple pieces of jewelry made of metal chains made from precious or semi-precious materials.
There are several types of necklaces such as the classic cable chain, rope, curb chain, figaro, mesh, box, and pearls. These necklaces can be worn alone or layered, and include variations such as charm necklaces, pendants, or lariats.
Chain Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
2. Pearl Necklaces
Pearl necklaces are made from cultured (real) pearls or imitation pearls (glass, plastic or shell). Cultured pearls can come from freshwater or saltwater (Tahitian, Akoya, South Sea).
Genuine, precious pearls are secured on a silk thread with knots between each pearl. Pearl necklaces vary in length from choker to princess, matinee (chest level), opera (near the waist) or rope (the longest).
- Fun Fact : The longest pearl necklace ever created measures 2,278.5 m and contains 316,474 pearls (Guinness World Records, 2015).
Pearl Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
3. Tennis Necklaces
Tennis necklaces are a type of elegant women's necklace, featuring a continuous row of diamonds around the neck. Affordable alternatives use stones like cubic zirconia. Available with delicate or statement diamonds, these necklaces add a touch of timeless glamour.
Origin : The term originates from an incident at the 1987 US Open, when player Chris Evert lost her diamond chain during a match, briefly stopping play to find it.
Tennis necklaces. Source: Sophie Bille Brahe
4. Festoon Necklaces
Festoon necklaces are highly ornate pieces, composed of multiple drapes of pearls, metal chains or intricate extensions.
Very popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, these necklaces, often worn by royalty, take their name from the French and Italian words for festive garland.
Festoon Necklaces. Source: Etsy
5. Stringed Pearl Necklaces
Stringed beaded necklaces, a classic type of necklace name, beyond their aesthetic appeal, have cultural and religious significance. Malas, rosaries or subha beads are used in meditation and prayer rituals.
Among Native Americans, these necklaces play a key role in traditional and ceremonial attire. In Hawaii, they symbolize the cultural richness of the islands with motifs such as fish hooks or turtles, representing protection, strength and good fortune.
Stringed Pearl Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
6. Initial Necklaces
Initial necklaces, one of the different types of necklaces, allow you to wear a letter that reflects your identity or that of a loved one. Usually composed of a chain and a letter-shaped pendant, they can be made of precious or semi-precious metals, or alternative materials such as leather or acrylic.
These necklaces are ideal for birthday gifts, wedding gifts or proposals to your bridesmaids.
Initial Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
7. Long Necklaces
Very popular in the 18th century among the French aristocracy, sautoir necklaces, also called long name necklaces in some references, symbolize prestige and elegance.
These long necklaces often feature braided beads or stones, with tassels or geometric elements inspired by Art Deco. The term sautoir, of French origin, refers to their graceful movement.
Long Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
8. Torque Necklaces
Torque necklaces , originally worn as a symbol of wealth and nobility, are made from metals and resemble a rigid ring for the neck.
Traditionally adorned with motifs like animal heads, modern versions adopt more refined and minimalist designs.
Torque collars. Source: Gisel B
9. Lariat Necklaces
Lariat necklaces are distinguished by their open design, with a chain falling over the chest. These necklaces, perfect for layering, are made of metal chains, beads or leather. Their name comes from the Spanish la reata, which means rope.
Lariat Necklaces. Source: Etsy
10. Graduated Necklaces
Graduated necklaces, a popular style among necklace names, consist of round beads or stones that gradually decrease in size toward the back. The largest beads are in the center, creating a balanced effect. These necklaces, often handmade, require meticulous work to match the beads by size.
Graduated Necklaces. Source: Tiffany.fr
11. Choker Necklaces
Chokers are typically worn at the base of the neck and are also a classic necklace length (between 15 and 17 inches). This style gained popularity in the 1790s, during the French Revolution, when the wives of victims wore red ribbons to commemorate their loved ones.
Chokers saw a resurgence in interest in alternative subcultures such as goth and punk in the late 20th century, becoming a symbol of rebellion and countercultural fashion.
These necklaces can be made from a wide variety of materials: leather, velvet, lace, metal, pearls or gemstones. They come in different styles, from minimalist bands to ornate and multi-strand designs.
Choker Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
12. Pendant Necklaces
With a history dating back 25,000 years, pendant necklaces were a popular type of women's necklace, once amulets or talismans used for protection or spirituality. Today, this type of women's necklace combines aesthetics with personal meaning, often adorned with symbolic motifs.
Pendant Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
13. Multi-Row Necklaces
Multi-strand necklaces feature multiple layers, either identical or different, often made of thin chains with or without gemstones. Available in various lengths (choker, princess, matinee, rope), these necklaces add elegance and volume, especially when they incorporate gemstones.
Multi-Row Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
14. Charm Necklaces
Charm necklaces originated around 3000 BC in Egypt, representing fertility or prosperity. Today, they feature popular motifs such as flowers, hearts, astrological signs and initials, perfect for personalized and stylish looks.
Charm Necklaces. Source: Gisel B
15. Bib Necklaces
Inspired by the Egyptian "uskh" necklaces, plastrons, sometimes associated with the long nom necklace, are imposing pieces covering the chest. Made from metals, stones, wood or ceramic, they add a dramatic and bold touch to any outfit.
Bib necklaces. Source: Oh My Shop
How to Choose the Right Material for a Women's Necklace
1. Determine the Desired Style
The choice of material depends above all on the desired style. For a classic and timeless look, opt for precious materials such as gold, silver or natural pearls, perfect for enhancing an elegant outfit.
If you prefer a more casual or bohemian style, turn to materials like leather, natural stones or wood, which bring an authentic and organic touch to your necklace.
2. Prioritize Sustainability
Durability is essential, especially for a necklace that is worn frequently. Precious metals like solid gold or sterling silver are very durable and retain their shine over the long term.
On the other hand, plated materials like gold plate or copper are less expensive, but they require more regular maintenance to prevent discoloration or wear.
3. Adapt the Choice to the Budget
Budget plays a key role in material selection. If you have a higher budget, go for premium materials like gold or gemstones.
For more economical options, costume jewelry made from brass, stainless steel, or synthetic pearls offers excellent value for money while still remaining aesthetically pleasing.
4. Consider Skin Sensitivity
For those with sensitive skin, it is crucial to choose hypoallergenic materials. 14K or 18K gold, sterling silver, and stainless steel are excellent choices, as they reduce the risk of irritation. Avoid alloys containing nickel, which are often responsible for skin allergies.
5. Consider the Opportunity
The occasion for which the necklace will be worn also influences the choice of material. For formal events or evening wear, opt for pearl, diamond or gold necklaces that add a touch of sophistication.
For everyday use, lighter materials like silver, leather or steel are practical and elegant without being too ostentatious.