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Sterling Silver Chains

16-Inch Sterling Silver Bead 6 Strand 4.5mm

$324
Chain Length: 16-inch

Frequently Asked Questions

All You Need to Know About Sterling Silver Chains

Which silver chain styles are strongest?

Durable Silver Chains

Curb chains and figaro chains handle wear well—their flat links resist kinking. Box chains are sturdy in heavier weights. Avoid delicate chains like herringbone or snake for everyday wear—they're prone to kinking and hard to repair.

  • Curb: Flat links, very strong
  • Figaro: Classic pattern, holds up
  • Box: Squared links, modern
  • Rope: Durable in heavier weights
How thick should a silver chain be?

Chain Thickness

For pendants, match thickness to weight—light pendants on 1-2mm, heavier pieces need 2-3mm. Chains worn alone should be thick enough to notice. On women, 1-2mm is subtle, 3-4mm is noticeable. On men, 4-6mm is common for standalone chains.

  • 1-2mm: Delicate, for light pendants
  • 2-3mm: Versatile middle ground
  • 4-5mm: Bold, visible on its own
  • 6mm+: Statement piece
How do I prevent silver chain tarnish?

Tarnish Prevention

Store in anti-tarnish bags or with silica packets. Keep away from rubber (it speeds tarnish). Remove before applying lotions, perfume, or hairspray. Actually wearing your chain helps—oils from skin create a protective barrier.

  • Use anti-tarnish storage
  • Remove before cosmetics
  • Keep away from rubber
  • Regular wear helps prevent tarnish
What length chain should I get?

Chain Lengths

16" sits at the collarbone—choker style. 18" is the most popular women's length, hitting below the collarbone. 20" falls at the top of the chest. Men typically wear 20-24". Add 2" to your usual length if wearing with a pendant.

  • 16": Choker length
  • 18": Most popular, below collarbone
  • 20-22": Upper chest
  • 24"+: Below chest, often for men
Can I fix a broken silver chain?

Chain Repairs

Most silver chains can be repaired by a jeweler. Simple breaks in curb or cable chains are easy fixes. Herringbone and snake chains are harder—sometimes impossible—to repair invisibly. The clasp is often the weak point and cheap to replace.

  • Most breaks are repairable
  • Jewelers can solder links
  • Clasps are easy to replace
  • Some chain types repair better

Buyer's Guide

Sterling Silver Chains Buying Guide

Silver chains offer timeless style at accessible prices. Understanding chain types, weights, and quality helps you find the perfect piece.

Popular Chain Styles

Curb: Flat, interlocking links. Very durable.

Figaro: Pattern of small and large links. Classic Italian style.

Box: Square links for modern look. Strong construction.

Rope: Twisted pattern catches light. Elegant appearance.

Cable: Simple oval links. Perfect for pendants.

Chain Thickness

1-2mm: Delicate. Best for lightweight pendants.

2-3mm: Versatile. Works alone or with medium pendants.

3-4mm: Noticeable on its own. Makes a statement.

4mm+: Bold presence. Typically worn without pendants.

Consider your frame: Smaller builds suit thinner chains.

Length Guide

16": Choker length. Sits at base of neck.

18": Most popular. Falls at collarbone.

20": Below collarbone.

22-24": Mid-chest. Common for men.

For pendants: Add 2" to your preferred length.

Care and Maintenance

Tarnish prevention: Store in anti-tarnish bags.

Cleaning: Silver polishing cloth removes tarnish.

Avoid: Chlorine, perfume, hairspray.

Wearing helps: Body oils create protective barrier.

Storage: Hang or lay flat to prevent tangling.

Quality Indicators

Hallmark: 925 or Sterling stamp.

Clasp quality: Lobster claw is most reliable.

Link consistency: Even size and spacing.

Smooth finish: No rough spots inside links.

Solid vs. hollow: Solid chains weigh more, last longer.