What girl, girl, woman doesn't want to look pretty? Since ancient times, the fair sex has adorned themselves, invented various ways to emphasize the individuality of their appearance. A gold chain is firmly established in the casket of a modern woman. Different lengths, thicknesses, weaving, it emphasizes individuality, but, at the same time, does not stand out much and suits different wardrobe. Gold jewelry emphasizes the status and taste of the owner. Men also adorned themselves. Solid status will be emphasized by a gold chain around the neck, bracelet or pocket watch chain. Consider several types of weaving gold chains:
Bismarck
Quite a popular type of weaving. Its name comes from the name of the German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, who became famous for his iron character, self-confidence and toughness. Jewelers tried to combine all these qualities in the weaving of the chain. It has sufficient wear resistance and strength. The weave consists of several rows and looks very massive.
This type of weaving is suitable for both the male half and the female. "Bismarck" goes well with business suits and in an evening dress will be appropriate if the option is not too "heavy".
The Bismarck braided chain has many options: Triple, Moscow, Armenian, etc. All varieties of this type of chain are made from separate springy spirals, which are connected in pairs and pressed with a special press. The difference may be in the thickness of the chain itself, the number of spirals connected, and their size.
Another method of multilayer weaving is the “Royal Mantle”, in which case some of the links are braided with a thin wire. Such jewelry should be worn with care, as it can snag on clothing.
Non-standard option - a chain with inserts of precious stones, semi-precious or cubic zirconia. Dark stones or neutral colors are suitable for men, and for women - colored ones, but everyone has individual preferences, you should rely on your own taste.
Python
Weaving "Python" is a kind of chain "Bismarck". This type is considered the most durable and is most often handcrafted.
A chain with such a weaving is a fairly independent decoration that does not require additional accessories. But, if the weaving is thin, you can add a pendant or pendant to it. Such a model is also called "Italian" or "Scorpio" if it is made of flat wire, and not of bulk.
This model can be made of gold of the highest 999 standard. Thick weaving will prevent soft metal from deforming and will last a long time. Other alloys are also suitable: 958 and 750 tests. Alloys with a value above 750 are stable in air, so you don't have to worry about the fact that they will tarnish and lose their golden color.
The chain can be quite heavy. You should choose a reliable carabiner-type lock. The chain with a length of 55 centimeters looks organic on women, for men you can choose a chain that is shorter and thicker.
Anchor
Anchor weaving is quite common among gold chains. This option can be combined with pendants, crosses and pendants.
The weaving method really resembles an anchor chain: links of an oval, round or rectangular shape are interconnected perpendicularly and form a single thread. In jewelry stores, you can see several types of such chains:
- "Cartier" consists of links of different sizes. Several small links (3-8 on average) are combined with one oblong, but the variations can be very different. There are examples with diamond cutting, notches, ornamental embossing.
- "Ribbon" or "Knocked" weave. The links are thick enough and fit snugly together. This chain is like a shiny ribbon. As an independent option, it will suit a business dress and a festive dress.
- "Garibaldi" - the chain is named after the Italian hero, a fighter for the liberation of his homeland. This kind of weaving looks quite heavy and is suitable for men.
- Another variant of anchor weaving is "Sea chain". Weaving consists of links with jumpers in the middle.
- A large selection and good quality of chains can be seen in the Estet jewelry company. The line of this company is presented in many stores in Russia.
Armored
Armor weaving is one of the most reliable, and according to the manufacturing technology it is similar to knitting chain mail. All links are located in the same plane and are ground on both sides, which prevents the chain from twisting.
Weaving is divided into several varieties. For example, "Figaro" - combines different links in weaving. In special cases, you can find a chain with links from different materials. There are options from three types of gold: white, yellow and red. Two-tone weaving made of white and yellow gold is quite popular.
Snake or Cobra armored weaving is popular among women - a hollow chain made of compressed links. The adornment really resembles a wriggling snake on a woman's neck. There are both voluminous models and graceful thin ones.
For women, weaving "Nona" with smooth links is also suitable. Diamond cut chains look great. The cut jewelry shimmers in the light and attracts attention. Weaving "Nona" is carried out by machine and by hand. The name of this chain comes from the Italian phrase “grandmother's weaving”.
The "Persian" weaving, consisting of large round-shaped links, is also referred to chain mail weaving. This option can even be two-tone. For example, yellow and white gold.
An interesting option would be carapace weaving with "Eight" links, and the elements with spraying will shimmer beautifully in the sun.
Weaving "Turtle" consists of links with a plane in the form of a turtle shell. Such an ornament is very beautiful, but not practical, the links will often catch on hair or clothes.
Another type of flat weaving - "Cleopatra", it is recognized as one of the most durable.
Singapore
Very romantic weaving will suit young girls and gorgeous ladies. The chain of ring-shaped links twists beautifully around the neck and shimmers.
The option with a small thickness can be supplemented with a pendant or a cross, and a thick chain is completely independent. The twisted chain is a universal option, suitable for any age and outfit.
A pendant to a chain should be chosen carefully and tried on in a jewelry store. Too heavy and large pendant will strongly pull the chain, and expose it to breakage or break. A too light version can dangle and move along the thread.
Women's slim models are ideal for everyday wear, they can be worn without taking off.
Rhombo
As in the armored version, the links lie in the same plane, but have a quadrangular shape - a rhombus. The most common options are triple and double weaving. The chain is especially popular among men for its laconic form and integrity.
Non-standard options can be single-row or more than three rows. A thick chain with several rows of links can combine several colors of gold.
Love
A subspecies of armor weaving. Heart-shaped links are used to create it. Thin light chains with small links will fulfill the whim of little fashionistas, and jewelry with large and medium-sized links will suit young girls.
The chain with large flat edges looks like a cast and does not twist around the neck. "Love" is available in single, double and triple weaves.
the Rose
Exclusively female version. Also, such weaving is called "Chamomile", it is very much like a ribbon of voluminous flowers. With a low weight, the chain looks quite voluminous: thin patterns of round-shaped links are fixed to each other in the shape of a bud.
This chain can be worn at a gala reception and is perfect for older women.
Rope
Weaving "Rope" or "Flagellum" is quite dense, which corresponds to the name. A thick chain of such weaving can be an independent decoration for men and women. Due to the simplicity of execution, it can be made on the machine.
Women's options are most often solid, and men's ones are complemented with inserts of gold plates.
Fox's tail
The armored weaving "Fox tail" shimmers brightly in the sun due to the flat edges and is used to make thick enough chains. The first chains of this type (link to link) began to be made back in the Bronze Age. All elements of the chain are laid and fixed to one side, which gives the jewelry a special grace.
Consider several types of weaving "Fox tail":
- "Circle" is a highly durable product. The rounded spirals of the links are interconnected in such a way that they cannot be separated or broken.
- Weaving "Square" looks very original and consists of wire, link links and rings, complemented by a diamond edge. Weaving is voluminous and laborious to manufacture, but it looks very unusual and rich.
- The option, assembled from spirals that are twisted in different directions, is considered extremely expensive. Such decoration involves only manual assembly. Each individual element consists of six thin rings.
Pharaoh
The name of this weaving is really associated with the culture of Ancient Egypt. Archaeologists have discovered a similar decoration on the mummy of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
The Pharaoh chain is very abrasion resistant. This jewelry looks quite voluminous, but there is "air" between the rings, which gives the chain an openwork look. Consists of several rows of links located longitudinally and transversely. Suitable for "Pharaoh" both respectable men and women.
Rollo
Weaving "Rollo" or "Shepard" is reliable and unpretentious, the chain is easy to clean. The links for decoration are matched to a perfectly round shape.
Hollow blown rings look quite voluminous and allow you to create a thick chain. The thin version of the "Rollo" thread is suitable for women, and the voluminous one for men.
Clip
A Paperclip or Snail is created from links with a slight curl. The version of the women's blown chain looks like a necklace and goes well with an evening dress with an open neckline.
Tondo
The chains of this weaving are made of various types of gold: red, yellow, white, etc. Such a chain will not attract too much attention and will organically fit into your everyday look. Often Tondo weaving chains are complemented with small round beads. Gold balls are fixed on a chain and look like a garland.
Ear
The "Kolos" weave resembles the "Fox Tail", but the links of each row are directed in the same direction. The chain pattern really looks like an ear of wheat. This option is flexible, but difficult to confuse, perfect for everyday wear. The complexity of execution is high and the price is appropriate.
Perlina
This option is unusual in the form of links, which are small double balls-pearls and "barrels" of gold. Quite feminine and graceful jewelry, but not too popular. Suitable for girls and young ladies, will emphasize individuality.
The name comes from the English "perl" - a pearl. A variant of such a chain appeared relatively recently; this may be due to its low popularity. But, "Perlina" has one more drawback - fragility. An awkward bend can break the cable or bend it.
For women with a swan neck, the option "Perlina" - a choker, is amazingly suitable, and for ladies with a medium-length neck - chains from 55 cm. The options look great:
- Classic - ball and barrel on a thin rope.
- Ball - only balls on the rope.
- Double - a chain with two twisted cables with balls or barrels.
- The braid is a triple chain.
Original options can be complemented by balls of multi-colored gold or platinum.
Serpentine
French braid
Exquisite weaving, consisting of two threads, woven into one "braid". Such a chain is quite voluminous and does not require any additions. It is worth wearing such jewelry very carefully, it can twist and get very tangled around the neck.
Fashion design examples and reviews
In 2017, jewelry fashion did not stay away from fashion trends. Chains and necklaces made of white, yellow, lemon and rose gold deserve special attention. Every woman wants the most beautiful, fashionable and exclusive jewelry she has. Let's take a look at some of the best fashion design examples of 2017.
The harmonious and simple style of "minimalism" has come to the modern jewelry industry, as well as to design and clothing. Such jewelry can be worn for a business meeting, walk or party. Thin chains of simple anchor weaving with pendants in the form of geometric objects, flat or voluminous, are suitable.
Earrings with similar geometric objects can complement the jewelry, but a combination of different objects will also look good. For example: round earrings and a flat triangular pendant.
Do not choose too heavy a pendant and a thin chain, it can easily break. The 1x2 ratio is perfect. Some fashion chains already have a pendant insert, it cannot be detached from the thread itself. The ratio of weight, size and design in such models is matched perfectly, but it will not work to replace the pendant. Several chains of different thicknesses and lengths will be a fashionable addition to the look. It is worth considering carefully the selection of chains.
An outfit should be chosen with a high neckline. Blouses made of light flowing fabric are ideal. The largest and most gentle chain is put on from above, and thinner threads can be chosen long.
Too long chains with pendants on a lush, accentuated chest will look strange. In this case, it is worth choosing another option.
Typically, manufacturers adhere to the standard chain length, it is always a multiple of five. For slender women and men, chains 40-45 centimeters long are suitable. The universal option is 50-55 centimeters. It is quite rare in stores to find chains with a length of 70 centimeters.
Massive jewelry is in fashion in 2017. Large, short chains will look great with solid colored sweatshirts, T-shirts and dresses. A massive yellow gold chain can be worn to work with a business suit, and to a party - to a dress of a simple silhouette. This option is suitable for girls and women, and little girls need to choose something more elegant.
Large and short models are especially suitable for ladies with long or medium necks. They can be worn with a closed plain collar of the T-shirt or open. In the office, you can put on a large gold chain under the collar of a shirt so that only the central part is visible.
Fashionable stylists in the new 2017 give preference to lemon gold and white. Inflated rings in the "Anchor" weave look great. You should also pay attention to chains with complex weaving: "Fox tail" or "Rose" with a diamond edge. "Tortoiseshell" weaving with large edges is suitable for an evening and business look.
Delicate handcrafted jewelry works well for a feminine look, while a less sophisticated chain with a simple weave can be worn to work.
Men this year are advised to combine voluminous long chains and simple T-shirts in neutral colors. This style is quite sloppy, but upon closer examination, many will like it. Reviews of fashion trends in jewelry were divided. Many women this year choose short jewelry - chokers and complement them with pendants. This option is suitable for young girls for a walk or a date. The chain can be chosen flat with a weave "Snake" or "Cobra". Fantasy weaving with flat links in the form of eights, large rings will look self-sufficient. It is important that the links do not have snagging or sharp links, this can injure the skin and make the dyeing sock a real torture.
Other girls are in favor of massive, heavy jewelry. In this case, you need to pick up chains with blown links, they will cost less. Such decoration does not require additions in the form of pendants, and weaving should be chosen in a fancy single row. Long hand thin chains with clones are also not in the last place. In the warm season, girls prefer to wear them with dresses and blouses, as they lengthen the silhouette. Many have solved the problem radically and combined short chains - chokers and long models with pendants. Here it is worth considering the distance between the chains. The same gap is not an interesting option. The best locations are long chains together, almost at the same level, and make the distance to the short chain more.
In this version, unusual and exclusive textures and colors of gold are welcomed: black, white, lemon, with and without a diamond edge, openwork and flat chains.
In this article we will consider weaving the Italian chain step by step. This weaving has other names, for example: "Royal", "Kaiser", "Python", "Italy", "Italian" and many other options. This weaving has gained its popularity quite recently. The main qualities of the Italian chain weaving are ease of manufacture, product strength, durability and beautiful appearance. "Italiana" creates serious competition for the well-known "Bismarck". From my experience I can say that people are fed up with Bismarck, everyone wants something unusual, new, not like everyone else. And if "Bismarck" is present in almost everyone, then "Python" is not often found, so its popularity is gaining momentum every day. Let's proceed directly to the process of weaving the Italian chain.
Necessary tool for making a chain
To weave this chain, we need a standard set of tools, which should be in every jewelry workshop. It includes: pliers, files, metal scissors, vise, sandpaper, gasoline burner, die, titanium stick, crossbars of various sizes and others. For the convenience of cutting links, you should have several scissors, the ends of which must be grinded for different wire diameters.You will also need a crank, with a slot at the end, for winding a spiral, from which the links of the future "Italian" will be cut.
A set of crossbars can be purchased at any jewelry store or online store. However, you can use a variety of bicycle spokes, metal welding electrodes, or something similar, as long as the bolt is straight.At its end, you need to make a cut or just drill a hole of a suitable diameter.
Necessary preparations
The first step is to melt the gold and pour it into the mold.
After that, we take out the finished rod of precious metal and pass it through the rollers to the required diameter.
Now it is the turn to pull the wire through the die. After which the wire will become round, smooth and ready for winding a spiral.
To pull the wire through the die, you need to sharpen the end a little. True, this operation will be required when you are already pulling through very small holes. During the broaching process, the wire should be lubricated with ordinary candle wax to reduce friction.When the wire has passed through the last hole and has reached the desired diameter, it should be bleached and dried with a hair dryer. Now we are winding a spiral. Below is shown in the photo one of the ways of winding a spiral, but you can also wind it using a conventional drill or screwdriver.
This is how it looks after winding.
Now it needs to be diluted in the same way as in the photo below.
Now we start assembling the links into one piece. We do this in the following way.
Then we squeeze the links.
The next half-link is inserted into the finished link. The end of the next half-link must pass under loop b and appear from under loop a. And then, bypassing the turn c, again under b and already appear from under a.
Then we turn the assembled product between the fingers to such a state as in the image and screw in the second half-link.
Now we turn the product to the next position and pay attention to the highlighted moments in the photo.
We continue to collect the rest of the links as well as the previous ones until we reach the desired length.
Link soldering process
Before proceeding with soldering, the chain must be lowered into a special flux. It degreases the areas that need to be soldered. After this, the glue is put on the tap and we prepare the solder. Soldering can be done in different ways, therefore, depending on the soldering method, the solder is prepared accordingly. Let's consider the soldering method. One of the most common is to solder each link separately, feeding the solder with a titanium stick. For this method, the solder is rolled in rollers to the state of a thin plate and cut into small squares with ordinary scissors.
Another method is very similar to the first one, only the solder cut into squares is laid out at once in all the places that need to be soldered. Since we dip the chain and the solder in the flux, the solder squares hold well in place. Now you need to wait a little and start soldering. It is convenient to lay out the solder with an ordinary brush for drawing, it is desirable that it be thin. After the solder is decomposed and a little dry, apply the flux, it remains to light the burner and bring its flame one by one to each place.
The third method is widely used by professionals with rich experience in jewelry making. Its essence is that the solder is poured into a mold, then through rollers, a die and turns into a wire. When soldering, the end of this solder is brought to the place that needs to be soldered and the parts are connected. The photo below shows the places that need to be soldered.
Whitening process
After all the links are soldered, the chain needs to be bleached. I always use citric acid. I take an ordinary Turk, in which housewives make coffee, pour water into it and add 20-25 grams of edible citric acid. Then I heat it up with a burner and bring it to a boil. For 3-5 minutes the water boils, and then I put the Turk with the chain in an ultrasonic bath. This method very effectively cleans and whitens the product. I do not recommend using hydrochloric or sulfuric acid, as their vapors are very harmful to health, and even if a hole gets on your clothes. What kind of tumbling I use you can see
Then I put the chain in the tumbling, which cleans up the inner hard-to-reach places. When I didn't have a tumbling, I used soda. Pour it on your hand, add a little water to make a porridge. In this gruel, it is necessary to rub the chain in a circular motion, holding it with both hands.
Biting off excess ends
The moment has come when it is necessary to remove unnecessary ends. The bottom of the photo shows which parts should be dipped with scissors for metal.
After all the extra parts have been removed, you will have a spiral chain in front of you.
Leveling process
Now you need to align the chain. To do this, we clamp it in a small vice, carefully twist it and level it.
Sawing
Now that the chain is straight, we start filing. In other words, we give our product a shape in the form of even edges. For sawing, you need a long wooden block, the surface of which should be perfectly flat. Drive a small pin into the block and put one end of the chain on it. Pull the other end with your hand and use a file or a file with the other hand to file it to the required state. After a large file, you should go to a smaller one to remove deep scratches. Don't forget to collect the spent gold. At the end, sandpaper with fine sandpaper to give a smooth, ideal surface.
Now it remains to make the chain of the desired length, solder the ears and install the fastener. You can see how to make the ears After installing the fastener, polish the chain clean, rinse it in an ultrasonic bath and dry it with a hair dryer. The whole chain is ready! You can look at other types of weaving chains
2015-07-14
The chain is the most versatile and functional product, which, thanks to the skill of specialists, has become a full-fledged piece of jewelry. It is worn as an independent accessory, supplemented with a pendant, a wearable icon or a cross.
Now they offer us a huge number of chains: short and elongated, wide and narrow, classic and decorative, male and female, gold and silver, not to mention dozens of different types of weaving. How do you choose the chain that's right for you? We propose to sort it out together.
Chain weaving technologies
Chains are made in several ways - manual, machine knitting or stamping.
Machine weaving is an automated technology using special equipment. The use of machine tools allows you to create jewelry with links up to 0.2 mm thick.
Despite the latest technology, some types of weaving can only be done by hand. And here one cannot do without specialists - chain tying machines. The minimum weight of a hand-woven chain is about 6 grams, and its quality largely depends on the skill of the jeweler.
This is really painstaking and time consuming work. First, you need to stretch a gold or silver wire, wind it on a prepared base and cut the resulting spiral into rings of the same size. Tsepevyaz manually fasten the links with pliers, "tying" the pattern, which provides for the type of weaving. In order for the rings not to disperse, all the links are soldered. The resulting chain is clamped between special shafts to flatten the links.
Stamped chains are made from ready-made links - dies. Moreover, they are not soldered together, but threaded into each other. As a rule, such ornaments are less durable, twist and deform easily.
Solid versus hollow: what's the difference
All chains, regardless of the type of weaving, are divided into solid and hollow.
A distinctive feature of hollow chains is the combination of bulk and lightness. The wire from which the jewelry is woven is hollow inside, therefore, with the outer thickness of the links, the hollow chains have an insignificant weight. Most often, they are made using complex decorative types of weaving and look quite solid. The advantage of such chains is their affordable price, which is determined by the weight of the product.
Solid chains are significantly heavier than hollow chains, which is reflected in the cost of the decoration. However, they are very comfortable in everyday wear, resistant to deformation and external influences, and therefore durable. In case of damage to the links, a specialist can easily solder the product and restore its original appearance.
Types of weaving chains
There are three basic technologies for knitting chains: "Anchor", "Armor" and "Bismarck". Over time, they received so many variations that today there are more than 50 types of weaving: from the simplest to the most intricate with links of a complex configuration. Each weaving has a special name and can be made both in gold and silver.
It is easy to guess that the "Anchor" weaving got its name due to the similarity with the weaving of a real anchor chain. It is simple and straightforward. In the classic version of weaving, each link has an oval shape.
The links can consist of either one or two "rings". Therefore, the technology "Double anchor" is also distinguished.
"Anchor" weaving with round links is known as "Rollo". At one time this type of knitting became popular thanks to the fashion house Chopard, therefore it has a second name - "Chopard".
Very similar to "Rollo" weaving "Garibaldi". The links of these chains are circular, bifurcated. It is believed that the mating was named in honor of the spouses Giuseppe and Anita Garibaldi - national heroes of the Italian liberation movement, who were very friendly and shared the views of each other.
Fantasy types of "Anchor" weaving also include "Aurora" and "Hawaiian".
The "carapace" technology has become the basis for the creation of various types of decorative weaving. Its distinctive feature is that flat links, ground on both sides, are not attached perpendicular to each other, but as if in the same plane. The technology, which is distinguished by its high strength, got its name from the similarity with chain mail links.
Weaving can be single, double and triple, depending on the number of rings fastened. A "carapace" knit with diamond-shaped links is called "Rhombus" (it can also be double or triple).
"Nonna" is one of the most elegant types of carapace weaving. Thanks to the diamond cut on both sides, these chains shine more in the light. Despite the outward sophistication, these jewelry are very durable. Oddly enough, the name of the weave has nothing to do with the female name. Nonna is an abbreviation for the Italian maglia della nonna, which means "grandmother's weaving."
An equally spectacular variety of carapace knitting is Figaro, named after the famous comedy hero Beaumarchais, who was distinguished by his changeable disposition. Just like Figaro, weaving is characterized by "inconstancy" - links of various shapes, short and long, alternate in the chain. The most common combinations are from 1: 1 to 1: 5. Figaro chains gained popularity thanks to the Cartier jewelry house, and gradually became known also as Cartier.
Chains often get their names from the special shape of the links. So, the "rings" that resemble hearts gave the name to the romantic and delicate weaving "Love". Thanks to the links twisted into a spiral, the "Snail" weaving appeared (it is also called "Paperclip" for the similarity of "rings" to the stationery of the same name), and divisions similar to the most beautiful flower gave the name to the chain "Rose".
A snake-like smooth jewelry cord with tightly fitting links is known as "snake". This weaving is comfortable in everyday wear, so it is often used not only in the manufacture of chains, but also bracelets for pendants and charms.
The most popular twisted weaves are the rope-like “Corda” and the “Singapore” shimmering in the sun. These chains are usually worn by women. These jewelry are elegant and at the same time reliable in use.
But the truly masculine type of weaving in Russia is considered to be "Bismarck". Named, according to one version, in honor of the first chancellor of the German Empire, Otto von Bismarck, he is also known as "Kaiser" or "Cardinal". This weaving is one of the most difficult, therefore it is often done by hand. Fantasy knitting consists of links, which, in turn, consist of several multidirectional "rings". Weaving can be double, triple or quadruple, due to which it is considered one of the most durable. Due to its thickness and volume, one of the Bismarck varieties was named Python.
An undeniable trend is the so-called fantasy chains. These decorations are distinguished by unusual types of weaving, a combination of various shades of metals, multi-layering and the inclusion of decorative "links". Fantasy chains are more like a necklace or beads and are a completely independent piece of jewelry that can be worn without a pendant.
What kind of weaving to choose?
Of course, this is primarily a matter of taste. However, some types of chains are traditionally referred to as feminine, masculine, or universal. So, the massive and solid "Bismarck" is most often preferred by the representatives of the stronger sex, and the graceful "Nonna", "Singapore", "Rose", "Love" and a number of other varieties are considered truly feminine. The typical unisex weave is "Anchor".
For children, the most optimal chains of dense knitting, for example, "Snake", as well as jewelry cords made of rubber or leather.
Choosing the length of the chain
One of the important criteria when choosing a chain is its length. As a rule, the size range is made up of models from 40 to 70 cm.
- 40 cm - the chain is worn at the very neck
- 50 cm - the chain is worn at the level of the upper part of the neckline
- 60 cm - the chain is worn at the level of the middle part of the neckline
- 70 cm - the chain is worn at the level of the lower part of the neckline
It is believed that it is better for women to choose chains up to 50 cm, and for men longer. And yet, there are exceptions to each rule, and when buying a piece of jewelry, you must definitely try it on.
Types of chain locks
When purchasing a jewelry chain, pay attention to its lock. Firstly, it must be of high quality, since the safety of the decoration depends on this "insignificant" detail. And secondly, the lock should be convenient so that you can fasten and unfasten it yourself, freely putting on any pendants on the chain.
As a rule, the type of lock is selected by the jeweler depending on the weight and type of weaving of the product. More massive chains have reliable carabiners, while a spring lock is more suitable for elegant thin models. Most often, both types of fasteners allow you to freely put on pendants with different eyelet thicknesses on the chain, therefore, in terms of convenience and reliability, they are approximately equivalent to each other.
Combining chain with bracelet and pendant
Many of us wear the chain all the time, so they don't see it as an adornment. Nevertheless, do not forget that this is an accessory that, like any piece of jewelry, requires special combination rules.
The pendant should match the chain in size, weight (about half the weight) and color of the metal. So, a large pendant or a cross on a thin chain will look ridiculous, and at the same time, a too small pendant will not be put on a massive product.
Be sure to check that the suspension eyelet passes freely through the lock.
In addition to ordinary chains, there are also chain bracelets that are often worn by both women and men. Ideally, the types of weaving of both products should be the same, but this is not common - jewelry can be donated, bought in different places or with a difference of several years. Therefore, it is quite enough that the bracelet and the chain are combined with each other in thickness and metal. For example, a chain "Nonna" will look good with a bracelet "Rhombus" or "Love", and "Bismarck" - with a wide "Carapace" knit.
Lyudmila 03.12.2019 When choosing chains, I am guided primarily by the strength of the weaving and the convenience of the lock. I do not like thin twisted chains and a spring lock. I give preference to wide flat chains of medium length, they always go well with large pendants or they can be worn as an independent decoration. But you can't do without a thin chain in your wardrobe, they are ideal for miniature pendants. To answerOlesya 11/28/2019
I have three chains. One with lace weave - "snake", and two with anchor weave. The first chain has a carabiner lock. One of the chains without a lock at all and one with a spring lock. In terms of weaving, I have no special preferences. Each of the weaves is good in its own way. The only thing is, if you plan to wear the chain with a pendant, then it is better to choose a simple weaving. But the carabiner lock is much more convenient than the spring clip. To answerThis is the perfect birthday present or a pleasant purchase to complement your favorite accessories. But from the variety of weaving of these products, eyes run up. And how among them to choose a piece of jewelry that will appeal to the eye and will last for many years?
What are the types of chain weaving
The types of weaving often depend on the method of manufacture: handicraft, machine knitting or stamping. Thanks to progress, the chain links made with the machine can reach thicknesses of up to 0.2 mm. But the possibilities of machines are not limitless. Certain types of weaving (if we are talking about "heavy" items, in which more than 6 grams of gold) are made by hand by jewelry craftsmen. Such chains are considered the most reliable. But it is worth noting that this directly depends on the experience of the master. Bracelets and chains are made by craftsmen both in small workshops and in large production.
Let's consider the popular weaving and their features in more detail.
Anchor weaving
The simple weaving got its name from the similarity to the chain to which the anchor is attached on ships. The classic version of the chain is characterized by the fact that each link has the shape of an oval.
Chains made using this technique are suitable for men and women. These are quite durable products on which you can hang pendants and crosses.
Anchor weaving has its own subspecies, among which we will single out the Venetian one.
Venetian weaving
In contrast to the classic anchor weaving in “Venetian”, the links are not oval, but a square or rectangle. One block can consist of two, three or more links.
Carapace weaving
If in the anchor weaving the links are attached cross to the cross, then in the armor one they are in the same plane. These chains are smooth, and the links smoothly transition from one to another, creating the appearance of a single whole.
This weaving is highly durable and versatile, suitable for women and men. But children's jewelry in this technique is not performed. Armor weaving has many subspecies: Mona Lisa, Love, Cartier, Singapore and others.
Weaving Mona Lisa
Delicate and elegant chain consists of large rings into which small ones are soldered. This makes the jewelry look beautiful and durable. Externally, weaving resembles the surface of chain mail or lace. Jewelry made in this way can be worn on its own without a pendant.
Weaving Love (love)
The heart-shaped link is the main feature of the weaving. Such chains are airy and light. Women's gold chains look especially beautiful in the performance of this weaving. This chain can be supplemented with a pendant.
Cartier weave
Its second name is Figaro. Such chains look unusual and are of interest to extraordinary personalities. The difference between this weaving is in the connection of links of different shapes: round and oval. Their order can be different. For example, three short links and one oblong, or 2 + 1. Because of this randomness, weaving has received the popular name "figaro".
Weaving Singapore
Ingeniously connected links create an exquisite weave with luxurious sheen. This is achieved due to the fact that the links are twisted in a spiral. And despite the delicacy of the product, such weaving is considered durable and in harmony with pendants.
Weave Snake
A smooth cord with tight-fitting links that resembles the scales of a snake is called a snake. This effect is achieved due to the tight fit of the ground links to each other. The weave is suitable for chains with pendants or bracelets with charms.
Weave Bismarck
The title of the most reliable weaving was given to Bismarck. One section has four links, connected in pairs. The chain made in this style sits securely on the hand and relieves the owner of the jewelry from the fear that it will break and get lost.
Weave Trismark
Trismark is one of the Bismarck subspecies. It features more links in one section - three pairs. The chains made in this weaving serve as separate jewelry pieces. It is pointless to supplement them with pendants - the chain is usually massive and it is impossible to put a pendant on it.
Weaving Rhombus
Diamond-shaped links, located inside each other, give the products a sophisticated delicate look. There are three subspecies of such weaving: single, double and triple. Weaving is suitable for people of any gender and age. Therefore, consultants in a jewelry store often ask about them.
Weaving Seagull
Weaving chains for men is called the Seagull or Double Stream. Large links fit very tightly to each other, and create the look of a weighty brutal decoration. Often, products with such weaving are chosen by women as a gift to a man. It is considered one of the original handmade weaves.
Spiga weaving
Decorations made using this technique have an interesting texture, therefore, they are complemented by a pendant or act as an independent decoration. However, choosing a pendant must be thoughtful. Simple, lightweight decoration will not work. It will be lost against the background of a delicate but original chain. But a large pendant of an interesting design will sparkle with all colors.
Fancy weaving
One type of weaving cannot be classified under this category. This is the general name for those chains and bracelets that are made in a unique way. For example, a link of an original shape, an unusual combination of elements, or different metals.
Where to buy a gold chain?
A rich variety of gold chains and reliable types of weaving of silver chains can be found in the assortment of the Zolotoy Vek jewelry factory. Handmade and machine-made chains can be ordered online at competitive prices. There are discounts on jewelry every month. Buy gold chains to please yourself or your family with the perfect gift.
