The world of jewelry and diamond rings is fascinating. Who would have known that there are so many different names and techniques to make all the jewelry that we love to wear every day or on special occasions? We all know there are many different types of rings, but something as seemingly simple as a necklace also has a long history and a particular vocabulary that describes it. Are you curious about all the different types of necklaces that exist? Here’s a bit about the major kinds found around the world.
By length
Most necklaces are identified by length. They vary from shortest (chokers) to longest (lariat). Here’s a bit about each:
Collar: Collars are the shortest necklaces, and are named so because they look like dog collars. They are usually between 12 and 14 inches and fit closely and high on the neck, usually near the chin or in the middle.
Choker: Chokers are the second shortest necklaces, between 14 and 16 inches. They fit closely and high on the neck, but usually fit just above the collarbone. They are slightly longer than collars but still look like they are “choking” the wearer.
Princess: Princess necklaces are the most popular and common necklaces. They are between 17 and 19 inches and sit just under the collarbone. They are the best length to show off pendants.
Matinee: A matinee necklace is a tad longer than the princess, usually 20 to 24 inches. They go down to the breast bone and are a great versatile choice between casual and business wear. They can look dressy depending on the materials.
Opera: The opera necklace is between 28 and 34 inches and is usually the first type you can loop twice around the neck, giving it a look of two princess necklaces together. Worn in a single loop, it has a very dramatic effect.
Rope: The rope necklace can be knotted, like a rope, to give it style, or worn in multiple loops around the neck. It is between 35 and 45 inches long.
Lariat: Anything that’s longer than 45 inches is considered a lariat necklace. It is worn in multiple knots or loops around the neck, often both at the same time.
By material
There isn’t a definite terminology for materials, but necklaces can be made of precious metals like gold or silver, contain precious stones and gems like diamonds, rubies and sapphires or be made of bone, leather, coral or seashells
Designers and jewelers put all these materials together to make truly original pieces. You can also find cheaper imitations made of steel or tin and zircon or imitation gems.
By meaning
Necklaces aren’t only fashion accessories: they can have religious, ceremonial or spiritual functions, like a crucifix.
Of course, no gift necklace is complete without pretty flowers to accompany it. It’s an original gift that changes from the traditional rings and still gives the wearer a sense of pride and attachment to the person who gifted it.
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