Gold Chains
Gold chains were among the first pieces of gold jewelry constructed dating back to 2,500 BC. Early Egyptians wore many gold chains around their necks, wrists, waists and even around their head. Many famous Egyptian pharos were buried with an array of gold jewelry; including chains, bands and even rings. Modernly chains have evolved into many different styles that differ greatly from the chains worn in ancient times. Commonly chains are made from white gold, yellow gold or rose gold and are worn around the neck or wrist. There are eight basic varieties in chain design and each can range in weight, which is determined by the thickness of the gold.
Bar and Bead gold chains are often designed with two types of gold so that they contrast each other. Typically the bars of the necklace will be made from one type and the beads from another, creating a variegated pattern in the chain. The bar of the chain is typically a rectangular link that is interlocked with a round bead, which in turn connects to another bar.
Box chains have many small box-like links that connect to make the chain. Often times these boxes are offset from one another giving the chain a spiraled appearance. These chains are popular among men because of their jagged edges and their thicker construction. Often times women ware box chains with pendants or charms.
Cable chains are the traditional style of chain where oval links are inter locked. This was the first style of gold chain that was constructed and worn, and it timelessness is obvious in its appearance. The links the chain is constructed with can be made in different thicknesses to change the style of the chain. Often time women prefer the delicate and thin chains while men prefer the thick and durable chains.
Curb chains are similar in make to the cable chain, however the oval links are flattened to give them a different appearance. These style of chains are most often worn by men and have become extremely popular with R&B and rap artists.
Fox chains are chains that have two thin strands of gold wire gently wrapped together. Sometimes three strands are incorporated to bread the gold chain. This type of chain can be wrapped or breaded tightly or loosely to give the chain different appearances. Fox chains are popular with both men and women.
Rolo chain designs are made from thick round links that interlock to make a simple and elegant chain. Often times these chains are worn by women to special events or on special occasion. Because of the thick design of rolo chains much gold is used in their construction; making them quite costly.
Rope styles of golden chains look exactly as they sound, like rope. Often times there are many tiny strands of gold that are coiled around one another to make the rope-like effect. This style is also popular for both men and women. Typically for men the golden strands are thicker, giving the chain a bolder more masculine appearance.