How to Choose a Necklace Length

Necklace length is measured as the full circumference of the chain, not the drop from the neck. A 16-inch necklace is a 16-inch loop.

Where each length sits

These are approximate. Where a chain falls depends on neck circumference and on how much of the length the shoulders take up, so treat them as a starting point rather than a rule.

• 14" — collar. Sits high on the neck, close to the throat.

• 16" — base of the neck, at or just above the collarbone. The most common length for a pendant meant to be seen against skin.

• 18" — at the collarbone or just below. Works over a crewneck.

• 20" — sternum. Clears most necklines and reads as a longer line.

• 24" and longer — mid-chest and below. Usually worn over clothing.

  
  

If you have a necklace that already sits where you want it, measure that one and compare against the Necklace Size Guide.

How to measure

Take a length of string or a soft tape and run it around the neck, closing it at the height where you want the chain to sit. Measure that length. That number is the necklace length to order — not the drop.

If you have a necklace that already sits where you want it, measure that one. It's faster and more reliable.

What a pendant does to the number

A pendant hangs below the chain, so the total drop is the chain length plus the pendant. A 16" chain with an 18 mm pendant sits lower than a 16" chain alone.

If a listing gives pendant dimensions, add them mentally to the length when picturing where the piece will land.

What an extender changes

An extender is a short length of chain at the clasp that lets one necklace work at two lengths. A 16" chain with a 2" extender can be worn at 16" or 18".

Two things worth knowing:

• The extender adds length at the back of the neck, not at the front. The pendant moves down as the whole loop grows.

• Not every necklace has one. A fixed-length chain is exactly the length stated.

Chains that can't be shortened later

Some necklaces are not adjusted after they're made:

• A chain with soldered links has no open link to remove. Taking out links means cutting and re-soldering, which breaks the finish at the join.

• A knotted strand — beads knotted individually on silk — has to be restrung entirely to change its length.

• A plated chain loses its plating where it's cut, and the join can't be re-plated locally.

Each product page states which applies under Fit.

If the length is wrong

Return it within 30 days, shipping covered both ways, and order the correct one.