What Is a Bead Chain?
A bead chain—sometimes called a ball chain—is made of small, uniformly shaped spheres connected by short bars or links. The spheres sit close together in an even row, creating a smooth, rounded strand with a clean, modern aesthetic. Unlike link-based chains where the metal is formed into interlocking shapes, the bead chain’s silhouette is defined entirely by the repeating orbs, giving it a distinctive look that stands apart from every other chain style.
Bead chains are available in 14K yellow gold, 14K white gold, 18K yellow gold, 18K white gold, and platinum. Each metal gives the beads a different character—warm and classic in yellow gold, cool and contemporary in white gold, and bright with permanent luster in platinum. Browse our full chain collection to compare the bead chain with other styles across all metals.
Choosing the Right Bead Chain
Bead size is the primary style decision. Smaller beads—around 2–3 mm—create a delicate, refined chain that works well under a collar or paired with a lightweight pendant. The subtle spherical texture adds visual interest without competing with other jewelry. Larger beads—4 mm and above—produce a bold, eye-catching strand where each individual sphere is clearly defined and the light reflections are more dramatic.
For length, 20″ is the most popular choice for men, sitting just below the collarbone. An 18″ chain provides a closer fit, while 22–24″ offers a more relaxed drape. If you plan to wear a pendant, the bead chain’s smooth, rounded surface allows most bails to slide freely—add about two inches to your preferred length so the pendant sits where you want it on the chest.
The metal you choose affects both the look and the weight. 14K gold offers a balance of durability and value. 18K gold provides a richer color and heavier feel with 75% pure gold content. Platinum delivers the greatest density, a permanently white finish, and the highest durability of any precious metal.
Bead Chains by Metal
14K Yellow Gold — The classic choice. Each bead glows with warm golden color, and 14K’s 58.3% gold content provides excellent durability for everyday wear. Yellow gold bead chains pair naturally with warm-toned accessories and are available in our 14K yellow gold chain collection.
14K White Gold — A cool, contemporary option with rhodium plating for a bright, silvery finish. White gold bead chains coordinate with silver-toned watches and jewelry. Available in our 14K white gold chain collection.
18K Yellow & White Gold — With 75% pure gold, 18K chains offer a richer color and heavier feel than 14K. The deeper tone is especially visible on the curved surfaces of each bead. Explore our 18K yellow gold and 18K white gold chain collections.
Platinum — The premium choice. Platinum’s naturally white color requires no plating, its density makes each bead noticeably heavier, and the metal is virtually indestructible for everyday wear. See our platinum chain collection for all available styles.
Visit our gold education page and platinum education page for detailed metal comparisons, and our chain education page for a guide to every chain style we carry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a bead chain different from other chain styles?
A bead chain is made of uniformly shaped spheres connected by short bars or links, creating a smooth, rounded strand. Unlike link-based chains such as curb, box, or rolo—which are defined by the shape of their interlocking links—the bead chain’s look comes entirely from its repeating spherical profile. This gives it a clean, modern aesthetic that is visually distinct from any other chain style.
Which metal is best for a bead chain?
It depends on your priorities. 14K gold offers the best balance of durability and value for everyday wear. 18K gold provides a richer color and heavier feel with 75% pure gold content. Platinum is the densest and most durable option with a permanently white finish that never needs replating. White gold in either karat delivers a cool, silvery look with rhodium plating. Choose the metal that matches your style preferences and the rest of your accessories.
Can I wear a pendant on a bead chain?
Yes. The bead chain’s smooth, rounded surface allows most pendant bails to slide on and move freely without catching. Choose a bead size that accommodates the bail opening and add about two inches to your preferred length so the pendant hangs at a comfortable position on the chest. Smaller bead sizes (2–3 mm) are the most popular for pendant wear.
Are bead chains durable for daily wear?
Bead chains are durable when cared for properly. The connecting bars between beads are the most delicate part of the design, so it is important to avoid pulling or snagging the chain. For everyday wear, remove the chain before heavy physical activity, contact sports, and swimming. Platinum bead chains offer the highest durability due to the metal’s exceptional density and resistance to wear, followed by 14K gold for its hardness, then 18K gold.
How do I care for a bead chain?
Soak the chain in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 15–20 minutes. Use a very soft brush to gently clean around each bead, then rinse under warm running water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. For white gold bead chains, avoid abrasive cleaners that could thin the rhodium plating. For platinum, the metal itself requires no special treatment beyond cleaning. Store the chain flat or hanging to prevent tangles. Remove it before applying cologne, swimming, and working out.