Gold-Tone Chains For Men

Your first gold chain: which one to start with

If you have never worn a gold chain, seventeen options is a lot. This page is a shortcut. Instead of comparing every link, answer one question: where will the chain be seen most? Under a shirt, over a T-shirt, or as the only thing you wear. Every chain here is stainless steel or titanium steel with gold-tone plating. Gold is the color, steel is the metal. Our full guide to widths, plating and lengths is on the main gold-tone chains page.

Three situations, three first chains

Mostly under a shirt, at work

Go thin and flat, so it does not bulge under fabric. The 3 mm Figaro Chain in 20" is the easy pick: flat links, a small rhythm of three short and one long, visible when you open a button. The flat snake chain in 2 or 3 mm is the other option, even smoother.

Over a T-shirt, on weekends

This is the classic men's gold chain. Take a 4 to 6 mm width in 20" or 22". The Cuban Link Chain Necklace in 4 or 6 mm is the chain most men picture first. A 4 or 5 mm rope chain twists the light more and looks a little warmer.

As the statement piece

8 mm and wider, worn alone. The Gold-Tone Cuban Link Chain runs from 8 to 18 mm, the Franco from 6 to 13 mm, and the 8 mm Byzantine adds a woven texture.

The first-chain cheat sheet

Not sure of your length? 20" sits at the collarbone on most men and is the safest first choice. Our 20 inch chains page shows what that looks like.

Three beginner mistakes to avoid

• Too thin for a pendant: a 1.5 mm chain carries a small pendant only. Plan 3 mm and 22" if you will add one later.
• Too short for a thick chain: a wide chain at 18" can feel tight. Go 22" from 8 mm.
• Perfume on the chain: cologne and chlorine wear gold-tone plating. Spray first, then put the chain on.