Chains have been part of the jewellery wardrobe since ancient civilisations. The Egyptians wore gold chains because they believed it would ward off the evil eye. They also wore gold chains because they associated them with power and status. These gold chains would be worn with amulets and gemstones such as lapis lazuli, emeralds et cetera. While the process of chain making has evolved since then, the penchant for it is still very much present.
At PureJewels we offer gold chains crafted in 22ct and 18ct gold. These chains are available in different designs such as box, Spiga, curb, foxtail, fancy, rope et cetera. Each chain is crafted with precision and care. These are also available in different lengths as well as tones of gold. You can wear these chains individually or along with pendants.
We have compiled a guide to give you an insight into the differences between these chains and how are these chains made. This guide will also answer other gold chain-related questions.
What are the Different Types of Gold Chains?
The main concept of chains is a series of links that are identical in shape and size to each other. However, some chains might display a combination as well. Chains are categorised depending on the design of the linking. Some chain designs are:
Spiga Chain
A Spiga chain derives its inspiration from the pattern of number eight. These chains have interlinking of the shape of 8. Its intricacy also makes it ideal if you want to add in lockets.
Foxtail Chain
Foxtail chains follow the pattern of slanted oval linkings facing one another. Foxtail chains are quite popular because they give a sense of volume, despite being lightweight.
Box Chains
Box chains are made of angular-interlocking links, joined together by box or square looking metal. This repetitive pattern gives its look to a row of boxes and thus the name.
Rope Chain
As the name suggests, these gold chains take their inspiration from a structure of a rope.
How are Chains Made?
Depending on the chain design, the look of the chain may vary. However, the process to an extent remains the same.
All chains start with gold bring drawn into long wires or coils. Gold can be drawn into long wires because it is ductile. Ductility refers to the ability to be drawn into wires without losing aspects of its toughness. Another property that helps in the formation of a gold chain is gold’s malleability. Malleability is the ability to be hammered into sheets and deformed without breaking.
The traditional method of making chains starts with 24Ct gold – the purest form of gold is mixed with additional metals to reach its desired purity. Gold is then drawn into wires of the desired width. These wires are then coiled around a rod. A saw is used to then cut this into individual rings. These individual rings are also called jump rings. These jump rings are interlocked within each other and soldered. After they are soldered together, they are coated with a powder so that the links don’t melt into each other for the next stage. The chain is once again heated up. The chain is then attached to one end of machine, while the other end of the machine twists the chain. This flattens the circular links and they get interlocked even further. This method is also used to make the chains you find in your key chains!
Today, we make chains using a combination of these steps and more machines. The difference between the traditional and modern method is that today all the twisting, pulling, drawing and shaping of chains is done through multiple millers and dye machines. Once the gold is drawn into a thin coil of desired thickness, it goes through machines which cut a small portion of it to form a link. This part is then shaped by the machine depending on the design of chain. As they are shaped, they are simultaneously inserted into each other. Their endings are closed by laser soldering.
In both the procedures gold chains are heated multiple times when required to soften it. This makes it easier for gold chain to be worked upon. They are drawn and pulled through multiple machines.
Each gold chain is then attached with a clasp at the end of it. The clasp is also usually where you’ll find hallmarking details and other information about the chain.
At the end of each process, chains are throughly cleaned and polished. This helps in bringing out the lustre of gold.
What Carat is Best for Gold Chain?
Chains have been part of the jewellery wardrobe since ancient civilisations. The Egyptians wore gold chains because they believed it would ward off the evil eye. They also wore gold chains because they associated them with power and status. These gold chains would be worn with amulets and gemstones such as lapis lazuli, emeralds et cetera. While the process of chain making has evolved since then, the penchant for it is still very much present.
At PureJewels we offer gold chains crafted in 22ct and 18ct gold. These chains are available in different designs such as box, Spiga, curb, foxtail, fancy, rope et cetera. Each chain is crafted with precision and care. These are also available in different lengths as well as tones of gold. You can wear these chains individually or along with pendants.
We have compiled a guide to give you an insight into the differences between these chains and how are these chains made. This guide will also answer other gold chain-related questions.
How to Clean Gold Chains?
To clean gold chains mix warm water with mild soap. Take a soft brush and use the soap water mixture to clean it thoroughly. Rinse the gold chain under warm water.
While you can clean gold chains at home, we recommend getting it cleaned professionally once a year.
Can You Wear a Gold Chain Everyday?
Absolutely! While you can wear a gold chain everyday, we highly recommend to not wear it during certain activities. One must strictly avoid wearing it while working out, swimming (in the sea or the pool or even the river), showering et cetera. All these activities can accumulate dust and sweat and reduce the shine of the gold chain. You can sleep with a chain if you’re comfortable with it. We recommend regular cleaning of the gold chain to maintain its shine.
We hope that this guide was helpful. If you have any questions, you can chat with one of our representatives using the live chat box or write an email to us.
