Necklaces are one of the earliest types of accessories worn by humans. Necklaces are commonly made from precious metals and gemstones. Other materials have been introduced over the years. The earliest necklaces on record were made of shells, stones, and vines. Ancient Greeks and Romans wore charms around their necks to protect them from evil. Necklaces were also a sign of power, wealth, and authority in the Middle Ages.
Today, necklaces are both everyday items and a special accessory. There are a plethora of necklace types. Below are some of the most popular necklace styles.
Chain with a Pendant – typically worn on a cable or link chain is the most popular jewelry style. This chain is made up of round or oval links that are the same size. The pendant is what sets the necklace apart.
Choker: a close-fitting necklace that is usually 14 or 16 inches in length. Like most necklaces, chockers can be made from a variety of materials. Popular chockers are velvet, leather, metals (silver, gold, rose gold and platinum), beads, and some plastics.
A collar necklace is similar in length to a choker, just a tad shorter, and usually has a cutout or focal point just below the neck.
Princess – this style is longer than a chocker but shorter than a typical necklace. It is usually around 18 inches. The base of the necklace contains a focal point, such as gemstones, that rests just below the collar bone.
Opera – Opera necklace is between 28 and 37 inches long. This necklace can be worn as a single strand or doubled up to create a two-strand choker style necklace.
Lariat - also known as a rope or Y necklace. These are normally longer than a lariat.
Matinee - A matinee necklace is 20 to 24 inches in length, sitting classically between the collarbone and the bust
Bib – a necklace with a broad front section that covers part of the chest. It resembles a child’s bib in shape.
A négligée is a necklace of fine links with two parallel pendants that are suspended at different lengths, making it asymmetrical.
You can combine necklace lengths to create a layered look fitting your own personal style.