Jewelry Tips, Hints and Tricks: Necklace Sizing

Necklace Lengths and Sizing 

Necklace sizing is truly a personal thing. As a designer I have to try to create for the "average" person. This can be truly diffcult. I personally don't believe in "average" but for all intents and purposes you have to kind of pick middle of the road, right? Well, yes and no!

When I create necklaces I always leave a little "tail" of a larger size chain on the end so the necklace is adjustable. It can range from 2 to 6 inches depending on the style. This way it will comfortably fit more than just the "average" while also making it possible for the purchaser to wear the same necklace with a variety of necklines for not only today's fashions but any style that may come along. 

1. The perfect size for you: To find the ideal length for a necklace that will sit just above your collarbone, use a measuring tape to measure your neck and add 2 to 4 inches. This will help ensure a looser, more comfortable fit.
2. Measure for a choker: If you want a choker the standard size is 16 inches. For a more snug fit, measure the exact length around your neck.
3. Standard sizes for children: For children's necklaces, 12 to 16 inches is considered standard. Some chokers for women can come in sizes as small as 14 inches, however.
4. Sizing for men: For men, the necklace should sit at the collarbone when it is worn with an open shirt collar. If worn with a pendant or medallion, the chain should be slightly longer. Men's chains generally measure between 18 inches and 20 inches in length for a necklace that will lie at the collarbone.

The illustrations below show necklaces and where they fall on the "average" neck of a woman. Add 2-4 inches for men's styles or a woman in the plus size range. Subtract 1-3 inches for very petite women.