The Trendiest Women’s Necklaces 18K Gold

Lester Fangonilo - November 22, 2021

 

There can be nothing finer than a gold necklace, especially if these are necklaces 18K gold: the shine is unmistakable and the luster exceptional.

But while gold necklaces are, essentially, timeless, we do understand the need for the fashion-conscious to be on-trend with what’s au courant on the scene. In this post, we walk you through four necklace styles on the cutting edge of style.

The Cuban Chain Necklace 18k Gold: Chunky, Hot, and Ready to Trot

So named because it was initially worn by those participating in Miami’s vibrant Latin nightlife scene, the Cuban Link - also known as the Miami Link - is one of today’s hottest necklace styles and it is particularly stunning when rendered in 18K gold. These first appeared on the scene in Miami dance clubs in the '70s and '80s and were worn by fashionable Cuban emigres who relocated to the United States. 

You don’t have to know how to dance the salsa to wear these chains. The substantial look of the Cuban Link lends itself beautifully to both formal and casual outfits. While normally worn by men, more delicate versions of the chain are equally stunning on women, particularly if worn with unusual pendants or charms.

Cuban Link necklaces 18k gold are characterized by their durability - a quality that is made possible with the use of interlocking links to form a strong chain. The resulting necklace is resistant to tugging or breaking, even though necklaces 18K gold are somewhat softer due to the minimal use of lesser metals like silver, copper, and zinc.

 

Cuban Chain in 18k Gold

It should be noted that the Cuban Link is available in two specific styles: the Classic Cuban and the Prong. The primary difference lies in their construction and appearance. 

The classic Cuban features a chain with interlocking round or oval links. The resulting interlocking pattern forms a chain that lies flat on one’s chest.

On the other hand, prong links are designed to have a sharper, more angular look. The links in this type of necklace are specifically designed with sharper cuts to form chains with an appealing woven-looking design. Prongs are a relatively new variation of the Cuban Link as jewelers first offered these in the 2010s.

The Link Chain: Variations on a Theme

The term link chain is a somewhat ambiguous one as practically all necklace chains are considered link chains - so called because each one is a string of interlocked metallic rings or links.

 

Link Chain Necklace 18k Gold by Oliver Cabell

The more popular types are as follows:

  • Rope Chains: This type of chain is made up of tightly connected segments that are linked tightly together in bands of two or three. These segments form a twisting pattern that makes the finished chain look like a length of rope.
  • Figaro Chains: First crafted in Italy to pay homage to the opera composer Rossini, Figaro chains are characterized by two or three short circular links that are succeeded in sequence by a larger oval loop link. These links are attached to create a streamlined look that easily lies flat on the wearer's body. 
  • Mariner Chains: Also known as anchor link chains, mariners feature oval-shaped with a bar in the middle. These are interlocked to form the chain, and the bars in the links keep the finished chain from tangling. These are commonly available in two types: chains with a rounded edge and those with a flat link. 
  • Snake Chains: The unique construction of the snake chain features a tight configuration of tiny links that have either a round or square cross-section. Aside from making these aesthetically striking, the design also has the advantage of making these chains strong and durable.
  • Box Chains: Somewhat more blocky in appearance than other chains, the standard box chain is made up of a set of interlocking square links. These are commonly worn on their own sans pendants or other embellishments.
  • Byzantine Chains: The Byzantine chain is constructed in a similar manner to the box chain. But while the link-blocks in the former point in a single direction, the ones in the Byzantine alternately face in opposite directions. The Byzantine is also what’s known as a four-in-one chain as individual links pass through four others.

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    When crafted into necklaces 18K gold, all these chains look amazing but note that some of the boxier and bulkier styles may be more appropriate if worn by men rather than women.

    Pendant Necklaces 18k Gold: The Art of Simplicity

    In the case of pendant necklaces, the most popular necklace chain would be either the cable chain or the rope chain, as both styles can easily be made finer and narrower.

     

    St. Christopher Pendant Necklace 18k Gold by Oliver Cabell

    The key tip to consider when buying pendant necklaces is that the pendant should not weigh heavier than the chain it will be hanging from. Especially if you’re considering an 18K necklace chain, the sheer weight of the pendant may cause the chain to snap. That said, the weight ratio should be 1:1 - unless, of course, the pendant is finely wrought and delicate in appearance, making it somewhat lighter than the chain.

    Also, it’s a matter of good taste if you’re thinking about getting a heavy chain paired with an equally heavy pendant. While this may be de rigueur among hip-hop artists, wearing a heavy chain with prominent links and an oversized ornament roughly the size of a wall clock wound be serious overkill - even if they’re necklaces 18K gold.

    Toggle Necklaces: Unusual Yet Appealing

    Conventional necklace chains usually have the clasp worn at the back of the neck, well away from sight. However, the toggle necklace is different: the unusual nature and appearance of the clasp is actually one of its most appealing features.

     

    Toggle Chain Necklaces 18k Gold

    In toggle necklaces 18k gold, the clasp is worn front and center, just above the pendant. Ideally, the designs of both clasp and pendant should be complementary, not competing with each other for the viewer’s attention. 

    The design also has a practical purpose: it’s an easier way to put on and take off a necklace for those who suffer from limited mobility, such as those with severe arthritis or a frozen shoulder. It also works for those who feel uncomfortable having the clasp at the back of their necks.