Rope, Box, Cable or Figaro? How to Pick a Gold Chain Style
Two gold chains can be the same length, the same width and the same karat, and still look completely different. The difference is the link style. It decides how the chain catches light, how it moves, how well it holds a pendant and how easy it is to care for. Here is a plain guide to the styles customers ask us about most, so you can pick the one that fits the way it will be worn.
Rope chain: the classic with the most sparkle
A rope chain is made of small links twisted together so the chain looks like a braided rope. Because the twist has so many angles, it throws light in every direction, and a diamond-cut rope adds tiny flat facets for even more shine. Rope chains read as substantial even in narrow widths, which is why they are a favorite worn alone, for both men and women. They also hold a pendant well. Browse our rope chains.
Box chain: clean, modern and pendant-friendly
A box chain uses small square links joined edge to edge, which gives a smooth, sleek line with a soft square sparkle. It lies flat against the skin, slides easily through a pendant bail and keeps its shape, so it is one of the most practical choices for a pendant you want to wear daily. In fine widths it almost disappears behind the pendant; in wider widths it becomes a clean, modern statement on its own. See our box chains.
Cable chain: the simple everyday link
The cable chain is the most familiar design: oval or round links joined one through the next. It is light, flexible and easy to wear, and it is the chain most pendants are pictured on. A diamond-cut cable has flattened, faceted links that add sparkle without adding bulk, and a round open-link cable has a more airy, modern look. If you are unsure, a cable chain is a safe first choice. Shop cable chains.
Figaro chain: a pattern with personality
A figaro chain repeats a pattern of short links followed by one longer link, often three short to one long. The rhythm makes it easy to recognize and gives it a bit of flair, which is why it has been a men's favorite for decades and works just as well for women in finer widths. Flat figaro links sit closer to the skin and catch the light on their broad faces. See our figaro chains.
Singapore chain: twisted, fluid and delicate
A Singapore chain uses twisted links that interlock so the chain ripples as it moves, catching light in small flashes. It drapes beautifully and looks delicate even at everyday widths, which makes it a lovely choice on its own or with a small pendant. It is especially popular as a gift for women and girls.
Curb chain: bold and easy to wear
Curb links are flattened and twisted so they lie flat and interlock tightly, giving a smooth, tight line. Wider curb chains are a classic men's look; narrow curb chains are an easy everyday chain for anyone. Curb chains are also a common choice for bracelets because they sit flat on the wrist. Browse our curb chains.
Which style for which wearer?
- For a pendant you wear every day: box or cable, in about 1 to 2 mm.
- For a chain worn alone: rope, figaro or curb, in 2.5 mm and up.
- For a delicate gift: Singapore or a fine cable.
- For the most sparkle: a diamond-cut rope or diamond-cut cable.
Width and length matter as much as style. If you are choosing those too, our guide to gold chain length and width walks through where each length sits and how wide is right for a pendant.
10k or 14k?
Most of the styles above come in both 10k and 14k gold. 14k has more gold and a richer yellow color; 10k is harder-wearing and easier on the budget. Both are real gold. Our 10k vs 14k gold guide explains the difference in detail.
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