Necklace Shopping Guide

Choosing the Right Necklace

The right necklace can be the perfect accent for any outfit you wear. Necklaces are made out of various materials and come in a variety of styles. If you’re looking to purchase the perfect necklace for you or someone special in your life, it’s important that you understand what type of necklaces are available to you. We’ve put together necklace shopping guide to help you make the right decision next time you go to a jewelry store.

Types of Necklaces

The following are the most popular types of necklaces:

Metal Chain

Comes in various lengths

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver

Can be worn alone or with a pendant hanging from it

Opera necklace

Length between 26 to 36 inches

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Sometimes accented with precious gemstones or pearls

Can be worn as a single strand necklace, a two-strand choker, or with a knot at the end for a “vintage” look

Great for layering with other necklaces

Bib necklace

As the name suggests, this necklace covers you up just like a bib does.

Makes a bold statement.

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Often accented with precious gemstones.

Worn as a bold statement piece.

Choker

Around 14 to 16 inches long, these necklaces are worn close to the neck.

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Often accented with pearls or precious gemstones.

This classic piece goes well with everything from casual to formal evening wear, and complements almost any neckline.

Collar necklace

About 12 to 13 inches long.

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Often accented with pearls or precious gemstones.

Worn as an elegant accent piece.

Princess necklace

The most common type of necklace, the princess necklace can be anywhere between 17 and 19 inches in length.

Is currently the most popular necklace length.

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Sometimes made with pearls.

Can be worn alone or with a pendant hanging from it.

Often worn as a contrast to low, plunging necklines.

Matinee necklace

About 20 to 24 inches long. Longer than the princess necklace, but slightly shorter than an opera length.

Usually made out of gold, white gold, platinum, or sterling silver. Often accented with pearls, a pendant, or precious gemstones.

Usually reserved for plunging necklines, as it sits just above the bust.

Necklace Selection Process

Before settling on a given necklace, ensure that it is the right size for you and fits your style.  If you’re purchasing for someone else, keep in mind the type of necklaces they currently own and the style of clothing they wear. This will help guide you towards the perfect necklace.

Shop for Necklaces at Provident Jewelry

Provident Jewelry has a wide selection of necklaces you can choose from. We have gold, white gold, platinum, silver, pearl, and diamond necklaces and pendants that are absolutely stunning and elegant. Visit our website or come to one of our 7 locations to see our selection.