Necklaces and pendants are among the most expressive pieces in any jewelry collection. Whether you prefer a simple solitaire diamond pendant for everyday elegance or a fully set diamond necklace for special occasions, what you wear around your neck draws the eye and frames the face in a way no other accessory can. At USA Jewels we carry a wide range of diamond pendants, gemstone pendants, gold pendants, and diamond necklaces to suit every style and budget.
Before you shop, it helps to understand the different categories, settings, and lengths available. This guide covers everything you need to know to choose the perfect piece—from pendant construction and chain pairing to the most popular diamond and gemstone styles on the market today.
Pendant vs. Necklace — What's the Difference?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but in the jewelry industry they refer to two distinct pieces. A pendant is a single ornament—typically a metal setting holding a diamond, gemstone, or decorative motif—that hangs from a chain or cord. A necklace is a more complete piece where diamonds or gemstones are set directly into the links or framework of the chain itself, either partially or all the way around the neckline.
A pendant features a bail, which is the arched metal component (often oval, teardrop, or D-shaped) that connects the pendant to the chain. Most pendants slide freely along the chain, though some are soldered in place for a fixed position. Common pendant formats include solitaire, slide, locket, and halo designs.
Pendant Settings and Construction
The setting of a pendant determines how the center stone is held and how much light reaches the diamond or gemstone. The most common pendant settings include:
- Prong Setting — Metal claws (usually 3, 4, or 6 prongs) grip the stone, allowing maximum light entry from all sides. This is the most popular setting for solitaire diamond pendants because it showcases the stone's brilliance.
- Bezel Setting — A thin metal rim wraps completely around the stone's girdle. Bezel settings offer excellent protection and a sleek, modern look. They are ideal for active lifestyles because the stone sits securely within the metal frame.
- Channel Setting — Stones are set between two parallel metal walls with no prongs visible. This creates a smooth, streamlined appearance and is common in bar-style and journey pendants.
- Halo Setting — A ring of smaller accent diamonds surrounds the center stone, making it appear larger and adding extra sparkle. Halo pendants are one of the most popular styles for engagement gifts and anniversaries.
- Pavé Setting — Tiny diamonds are set closely together across a surface using minimal metal, creating a continuous field of shimmer. You will find pavé work on designer pendants, heart motifs, and fashion pieces.
Necklace and Chain Lengths
Length matters more than most people realize. The wrong length can make a pendant disappear under a neckline or sit awkwardly against the collarbone. When you purchase a pendant from USA Jewels, a matching chain in the same metal type is included. The standard necklace length in the jewelry industry is 18 inches, but you will have the option of a 16 or 17 inch chain as well. Custom lengths are available by request—simply email contact@usajewels.com to arrange a special order.
Here is a general guide to necklace lengths:
- 14 inches (Collar) — Sits tightly around the neck. Best with off-the-shoulder and boat-neck tops.
- 16 inches (Choker / Standard) — Falls just above the collarbone. The standard length for diamond necklaces and a popular choice for round and crew necklines.
- 18 inches (Princess) — Sits just below the collarbone. The most versatile and best-selling length for pendants. Works with virtually every neckline.
- 20–22 inches (Matinee) — Falls at or just above the bust line. A good choice for layering or business attire.
- 24 inches (Opera) — Drops to the center of the chest. Creates a dramatic, elongated look and pairs well with formal wear.
- 30+ inches (Rope) — Can be doubled or knotted for a layered effect. A statement length for fashion-forward wearers.
If you are ordering a diamond necklace, it should hit the center of your neckline. The length can be adjusted by adding or removing small links at the back end of the necklace.
Choosing the Right Chain for Your Pendant
The chain you pair with a pendant is just as important as the pendant itself. A chain that is too thin may not support a heavier pendant, while an overly thick chain can overpower a delicate piece. Here are some popular chain styles and how they work with pendants:
- Cable Chain — Round or oval interlocking links in an alternating pattern. This is the most classic and versatile chain for pendants of all sizes. Available in 14K gold, 18K gold, and platinum.
- Box Chain — Square links connected at right angles create a smooth, geometric look. Box chains are strong relative to their width and glide through bails easily, making them an excellent pendant chain.
- Wheat Chain — Twisted oval links woven together for a braided texture. Wheat chains add visual interest without competing with the pendant.
- Snake Chain — Tightly fitted rings form a smooth, flexible tube. Snake chains have a sleek, modern appearance but are more delicate—best for lighter pendants worn on special occasions.
- Rope Chain — Two or more strands twisted together to resemble a rope. Strong and eye-catching, rope chains work well with medium to large pendants and are a popular choice for men's pendants.
As a rule of thumb, the bail opening on your pendant should be wide enough for the chain to pass through freely. If you are unsure which chain pairs best with a particular pendant, our team is happy to help.
Significant Necklace Styles
The illustration above highlights some of the most recognized necklace silhouettes in fine jewelry. From tight-fitting collar and choker styles to the dramatic length of a rope or lariat, each silhouette flatters different necklines and occasions. Understanding these shapes helps you choose a piece that works with your wardrobe rather than against it.
Solitaire Diamond Pendants
The solitaire diamond pendant is the single most popular pendant style in the world—and for good reason. Featuring one diamond in a simple setting, it lets the stone speak for itself. Solitaire pendants are available in prong, bezel, and three-prong martini settings, each offering a slightly different look.
A prong-set solitaire maximizes brilliance by allowing light to enter the diamond from every angle, while a bezel-set solitaire provides a clean, contemporary silhouette with added security. Most solitaire pendants are set in 14K or 18K gold or platinum, and they pair beautifully with a classic cable or box chain.
Solitaire pendants range from dainty 0.10 carat everyday pieces to impressive 2.00 carat or larger statement stones. They are the go-to gift for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and holidays because of their universal appeal.
Journey Diamond Pendants
The journey diamond pendant carries deep personal symbolism. Its graduated stones—arranged from smallest to largest—represent growth, achievement, and the passage of time. Whether it marks a career milestone, an anniversary, or a personal accomplishment, the journey pendant tells a story without words.
These pendants are typically designed in a flowing curve, gentle twist, or vertical line. A circular journey design represents eternal love and unity, while a wave or S-curve adds a sense of motion. Beaded or milgrain edging around the setting gives journey pendants a vintage, antique-inspired appearance for customers who appreciate classic craftsmanship.
Journey pendants coordinate beautifully with matching journey earrings for a polished set. They make exceptional anniversary and graduation gifts, and the graduated stone design means you can choose a piece at virtually any price point depending on the total carat weight.
Three Stone Diamond Pendants
Three stone diamond pendants feature three diamonds or gemstones arranged in a vertical row, graduated from the smallest at the top to the largest at the bottom. The three stones symbolize past, present, and future—making this style one of the most meaningful pendant designs for couples and families.
The classic version uses all diamonds, but you can also mix diamonds with colored gemstones for a more personalized look. Combining birthstones with diamonds creates a family pendant that tells a unique story. Three stone pendants coordinate exceptionally well with matching three stone earrings and rings for a complete jewelry set.
Because the stones are graduated, three stone pendants create a pleasing visual flow that draws the eye downward. This elongating effect is flattering on virtually any neckline and makes three stone pendants a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions.
Designer Diamond Pendants
For those who want something beyond the classic styles, designer diamond pendants offer artistic, fashion-forward designs that make a statement. This category includes abstract shapes, geometric patterns, floral motifs, and contemporary interpretations of traditional jewelry forms. Designer pendants are crafted to be conversation pieces—jewelry that reflects individual personality and style.
These pieces can be set with diamonds, gemstones, or a combination of both and are available in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum. Many designer pendants incorporate pavé diamond accents, open metalwork, or mixed-metal finishes for added visual depth. Designer pendants make excellent personalized gifts because no two designs feel quite the same.
Halo Diamond Pendants
The halo pendant has become one of the fastest-growing styles in fine jewelry. A ring of smaller accent diamonds encircles the center stone, amplifying its size and sparkle. A well-crafted halo can make a 0.50 carat center diamond look closer to 0.75 or even 1.00 carat, delivering impressive visual impact at a more accessible price point.
Halo pendants are available in round, cushion, oval, and pear shapes. Double halo designs—where two rings of accent stones surround the center—create an even more dramatic effect. Because the accent diamonds add so much brilliance, halo pendants photograph beautifully and catch the light from every angle, making them popular for weddings, engagements, and milestone celebrations.
Diamond Necklaces
A diamond necklace is the ultimate statement piece. Unlike a pendant that hangs from a chain, a diamond necklace features stones set directly into the necklace framework—either partially or completely around the neck. Diamond necklaces are built with gold or platinum settings and are available in a wide range of carat weights.
The most popular styles include:
- Riviera (Tennis Necklace) — Identical or near-identical diamonds set all the way around in a continuous line. This is the non-graduated classic—clean, uniform, and endlessly elegant.
- Graduated Necklace — The largest diamond sits at the center, with stones gradually decreasing in size toward the clasp. This tapered design draws attention to the center of the chest and creates a flattering V-shape.
- Diamond by the Yard — Individual diamonds set in bezel settings spaced approximately one inch apart along a delicate chain. This style offers sparkle with subtlety and is ideal for everyday wear or layering.
- Station Necklace — Similar to Diamond by the Yard, but the diamonds or gemstones may be spaced at varying intervals or combined with decorative metal elements for a more designed look.
- Red Carpet / Fashion Necklaces — Sophisticated, multi-row designs featuring double or triple strands of diamonds. These pieces are true showpieces designed for galas, weddings, and formal events.
When choosing a diamond necklace, consider whether you want an everyday piece or a special-occasion piece. For less formal wear, a Diamond by the Yard or a solitaire pendant offers understated elegance at a variety of price points. For formal occasions, a Riviera necklace, graduated strand, or red carpet design delivers the kind of presence that commands attention.
Gemstone Pendants
Not every pendant needs to feature a diamond. Gemstone pendants offer rich color and personal meaning that diamonds alone cannot provide. Rubies, sapphires, emeralds, tanzanite, amethyst, and dozens of other stones each bring their own character and symbolism to a pendant design.
Birthstone pendants are among the most popular gemstone styles—a meaningful gift that connects the wearer to their birth month. Many customers also choose gemstone pendants to represent favorite colors, anniversary milestones, or family connections. Gemstone pendants are available in the same setting styles as diamond pendants (prong, bezel, halo, and pavé) and can be paired with diamond accents for added brilliance. Visit our gemstone buyers guide to learn more about individual stone types, durability, and care.
Pendant Metals
The metal you choose for a pendant affects its appearance, durability, and price. Here is a quick comparison of the most popular options:
- 14K Gold — The most popular choice in the United States. Available in yellow, white, and rose gold. 14K gold pendants offer an excellent balance of purity, strength, and value.
- 18K Gold — A higher gold content (75% pure) delivers a richer color and slightly softer feel. 18K is the preferred karat in Europe and Asia and is ideal for customers who want a more luxurious gold tone.
- Platinum — The densest and most durable precious metal. Platinum is naturally white, hypoallergenic, and never needs replating. It is the premium choice for securing valuable diamonds and provides a lifetime of wear.
- Sterling Silver — An affordable, bright white metal that works well for fashion pendants and everyday gemstone pieces. Sterling silver chains pair naturally with silver-set pendants.
Caring for Your Pendant or Necklace
Fine jewelry lasts a lifetime with proper care. To keep your pendant or necklace looking its best, clean it regularly with warm water, a few drops of mild dish soap, and a soft-bristle brush (a baby toothbrush works well). Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. For diamond necklaces and pendants, this simple routine removes oils and residue that dull the stone's brilliance.
Avoid wearing pendants in swimming pools, hot tubs, or while applying perfume, hairspray, or lotions—chemicals can discolor metals and damage certain gemstones over time. Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent chains from tangling and stones from scratching each other.
We recommend having your pendant's prongs and bail inspected by a jeweler at least once a year. Prongs can wear thin over time, and catching a loose setting early is the best way to prevent losing a stone. For platinum and gold necklaces, a professional polish and cleaning will restore the original luster and keep your piece looking like new.
Choosing the Perfect Pendant
With so many styles, settings, and metals to consider, choosing the right pendant comes down to three things: occasion, personal style, and budget. A solitaire diamond pendant is the safest and most universally loved choice for gifting. Journey and three stone pendants carry deeper personal meaning. Designer and halo pendants make a bolder fashion statement. And gemstone pendants offer color, individuality, and birthstone significance.
Whatever style you choose, a quality pendant from USA Jewels is crafted to be worn and cherished for years to come. Browse our full collection of diamond pendants, gemstone pendants, and gold necklaces, or contact our team at contact@usajewels.com for personalized assistance finding the perfect piece.