Whether you want to determine the ideal length of necklace for a gift, a new purchase or to match a particular outfit, the right techniques will give you the most accurate idea of what to expect. You can either measure your favorite necklace as a reference for an upcoming purchase or test the listed length of a necklace you’re considering using household items.
Identifying the Size of a Necklace or Chain
Measuring the size of a necklace at home requires a ruler or tape measure and these simple steps:
- Unclasp the chain and lay it out straight on a flat surface.
- Measure the full length, including the clasp, with a ruler or tape measure.
- Make a note of the measurement so you can reference it in the future.
How to Determine Your Preferred Necklace Length
If you are measuring your neck for the perfect placement to complement your features or to accent the neckline of an outfit, there are two methods that can help you create your own necklace chain size guide.
The Flexible Tape Measure Technique
Wrap a flexible tape measure around your neck and hold the end that starts at zero in one hand. Let the other side slide through the fingers of your other hand until you’ve made a loop of the desired size and read the measurement.
The String Method
All you need is a ruler or regular tape measure and a piece of string or ribbon. Make a loop of the right length around your neck, then remove it by holding the spot that marks the desired end. From there, lay it out on a flat service and measure it.
Common Necklace Lengths and Names
The names of necklaces can help you estimate length if exact measurements aren’t available. While well-known names can be used as an approximate chain and necklace size guide, it’s important to remember they’ll hang differently on each individual’s physique. The most common necklace styles include:
- Collar: This design sits high on the neck and usually measures between 12 and 14 inches.
- Choker: Similar to the collar, and slightly overlapping in size, chokers sit on the collar bones and are usually between 14 and 16 inches.
- Princess: This style is ideal for pendants and will usually lie below the collar bones at 17 to 19 inches long.
- Matinee: Perfect for layering, this style is 20 to 25 inches and can be paired with shorter chains or worn with low-cut tops.
- Opera: Depending on a person’s build, this length will usually hang below the bust and ranges from 26 to 36 inches.
- Rope: This style can be double-wrapped or worn long and exceeds 37 inches in length.
Contact The Vault Jewelry and Loan to Buy or Sell Necklaces
The Vault Jewelry and Loan is a trusted pawn shop with multiple locations in Virginia. We offer free quotes, maximum security and privacy, and complete peace of mind knowing your items are safe with us. You can choose our cash option and receive an immediate cash payment for items you sell or loan.
Contact us for more information on our jewelry products or partner with us to buy or sell necklaces, luxury products, sporting goods, tools and much more. You can also visit one of our seven locations to discover high-quality items at lower prices than you’ll find at regular retail stores.
Jamie Furman
James (Jamie) F., is the manager of our Centerpointe Way location in Woodbridge, VA. With over 14 years in the pawn business, he is an expert in Diamonds, Gold, and Luxury Watches. He is fluent in Spanish and English and enjoys helping customers’ find the item they want at a great deal. Banks and Big Box stores have convinced many that new and expensive is the only way to buy. He aims to change that paradigm and provide exceptional service and quality products at a bargain price to every person who walks through our doors.
