When most of us think of necklaces, we probably just imagine some type of gemstone dangling on a chain. In reality, that’s just one common type, called a pendulum. The different styles of necklaces encompass a vast range of looks and materials.
Short Length
The most well-known variety of short-length necklaces is the choker. Often constructed of light material or even cloth, chokers ride close to the neck. Besides this, Riviere necklaces are a fancier version that often features large cut gems and stones. Lastly, collar necklaces typically feature a heavy chain or solid arc of metal.
Medium Length
Naturally, pendants are among the best-known of the different styles of necklaces, as both the chain and the focal point of the piece can vary significantly in styles themselves. Negligee necklaces are similar but feature an asymmetric, dangling chain on either side of the centerpiece. Lariats are very unusual in that there is no clasp. Instead, the wearer twists the strand around itself or wraps it like a scarf.
Bead Strand Necklaces
Quite a few styles of beaded necklaces are popular, such as the choker-length torsade, which features dozens of strands often of slightly different lengths or wound together. Graduated bead necklaces also tend to be shorter and features a gradual change in bead size. Lastly, opera beads are several different lengths of strands that tend toward the longer side.
Tassel Varieties
Tassels aren’t as common as they should be for their simple beauty. Fringed necklaces are likely the most dramatic of this variety and feature a choker-length central design, in which tassels dangle all around the entire piece. The bayadere is a braided rope necklace that ends in a tassel. Finally, stairs are beaded necklaces that are extra-long for a length you can customize by looping it yourself.
Complex Form Varieties
Some of the most dramatic jewelry designs throughout history are still available today among the many offerings of discount fashion necklace suppliers. One of the most spectacular is festoon varieties, which feature several large cabochons strung together by delicately dangling chains. Bibs are another fascinating style that uses a knit of links and chains to create a large, interwoven focal point that hangs across the chest, hence the name.