Men's Gold Chain Styles
The Cuban link is king when it comes to men's chains—interlocking oval links with a flat profile that catches light from every angle. It's the chain most guys picture when they think gold chain, and for good reason. Figaro chains alternate between short and long links for a pattern that's been popular in Italian jewelry for generations. Rope chains twist two or more strands of gold together for a textured, dimensional look that really shines in heavier weights.
Franco chains are built like tanks—the V-shaped links interlock on all four sides, making them one of the strongest chain styles we carry. Box chains have square links that create a smooth, modern profile, and Mariner chains feature oval links with a bar through the center, inspired by the chains used on ships. Each style drapes differently, so what looks best really comes down to the weight and width you go with. Many customers pair their chain with a matching men's gold bracelet for a coordinated look.
Choosing the Right Gold Chain
Width and weight set the entire tone. A 2–3 mm chain is subtle—it works under a collar or layered with other pieces. Once you get into the 5–7 mm range, you're making a statement. Anything 8 mm and above is bold jewelry that's meant to be noticed. We always tell customers: try on a few widths in person if you can, because what looks thin on screen can feel completely different around your neck.
Length matters just as much. A 20-inch chain hits right at the collarbone and is our most popular length for everyday wear. 22 inches sits a couple inches below that and works well with a pendant. 24 to 30 inches gives you that longer, layered look. If you're wearing a chain over clothing, go longer. Under a shirt, 20 inches keeps it out of the way. And don't overlook solid vs. hollow—solid chains cost more but they hold up for decades. Hollow chains are lighter on the neck and the wallet, but they can dent or kink if you're not careful with them.
Men's Chains by Gold Karat
10K gold is the most durable option and the most affordable entry point into real gold. It's 41.7% pure gold, and the higher alloy content makes it resistant to scratching and bending—a solid choice for a chain you plan to wear hard every day. 14K gold is what we sell the most of. It hits the sweet spot: rich color, good durability, and a price point that makes sense for a serious chain.
18K gold is 75% pure gold, so the color is noticeably richer and deeper, especially in yellow gold. It's softer than 14K, so we typically recommend it for guys who are a little more careful with their jewelry or want a dressier piece. White gold chains in any karat get rhodium-plated for that bright silver look—just know that plating wears over time and needs a refresh every year or two depending on how often you wear it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What length gold chain should I get?
For most guys, 20 inches is the safe bet—it sits right at the collarbone and works with crew necks, V-necks, pretty much everything. If you want the chain to hang a little lower or plan to add a pendant, 22 or 24 inches gives you that room. We see a lot of customers go with 24 to 26 inches for layering. One trick: grab a piece of string, cut it to the length you're considering, and hold it around your neck in front of a mirror. Saves a lot of guesswork.
What's the difference between solid and hollow gold chains?
A solid chain is gold all the way through—it's heavier, stronger, and will last a lifetime with normal wear. A hollow chain has the same outer appearance but the inside is empty, so it's significantly lighter and more affordable. The trade-off is durability: hollow chains can dent, kink, or crush if they get caught on something or take a hard knock. If budget allows, we always steer customers toward solid. If you go hollow, just treat it gently.
Is 10K, 14K, or 18K gold best for a men's chain?
14K is our recommendation for most customers. It's got enough gold content for a rich color, but the alloy mix makes it strong enough for daily wear. 10K is the toughest and most affordable—great if you want something you never have to think about taking off. 18K has the deepest gold color and feels more luxurious, but it's softer, so it picks up scratches faster. We see a lot of guys start with 14K and move to 18K later when they want something for special occasions.
How do I care for my gold chain?
Warm water, a drop of dish soap, and a soft cloth—that's really all it takes. Let the chain soak for a few minutes, then gently wipe it down and rinse. For chains with tight links like Franco or rope, use a soft toothbrush to get into the crevices where skin oil builds up. Dry it completely before putting it back on. Take it off before the pool—chlorine eats at gold alloys over time—and before bed if you're a restless sleeper. Tangled chains under a pillow are one of the top repairs we see.
Can I shower with my gold chain on?
You can, but we don't recommend making a habit of it. The water itself won't hurt gold, but soap, shampoo, and body wash leave a film on the links that dulls the shine over time. Hard water buildup is even worse. If you forget to take it off once in a while, no big deal—just give it a quick clean afterward. But if you want your chain looking its best, keep it dry when you can.