The Best Men’s Chain Necklaces and Pendants For 2023
These days, it’s become more acceptable for modern men to wear jewellery around their neck. We’ve finally moved on from the outdated associations (notably Mr T and wearable holiday souvenirs) and come to the realisation that a simple chain or pendant makes for a stylish and highly personal addition to any outfit.
Despite what sceptics might tell you, the chain necklace – when chosen and worn correctly – has long been a timeless and masculine adornment. It’s an item that allows the wearer to showcase a little individuality, as well as an appreciation of the finer details, and can even have sentimental meaning.
Here’s Ape’s handy informer highlighting the considerations and brands you need to know when it comes to picking a signature chain.
Purchase Considerations
Material
David Yurman
Gold is undoubtedly the luxury choice here, but with great power comes great responsibility: you need to choose wisely to avoid straying into “tacky” territory. Therefore, leave the oversized, garish chains to rappers and opt for a thinner, more understated design. It’s also wise to opt for the best-quality gold you can (think 14-karat or above) to ensure a richness and depth of colour. That said, for your first foray into necklaces, it’s perfectly acceptable to opt for a sterling silver chain that is gold plated (again, look for 14-karat or above) in order to keep cost down. When wearing, look to set gold chains against darker shades or black to create a sophisticated contrast.
Silver is an effortless, comfortable and classic option when it comes to men’s necklaces and should be considered your safe space. Whilst gold is a brighter metal that demands attention, silver is subtle and works well with a traditional menswear palette of grey, navy blue and olive green. If you value longevity, opt for solid sterling silver rather than “silver-tone” designs, which are typically cheaper to produce and of lower quality.
Size & Length
Alex Orso
The thickness of the chain will determine just how much of a statement your new accessory will make. If you’re going for a simple design without a pendant, a thickness of around 2 – 6mm and a length between 18 and 22 inches (finishing just below the collar bone) works well for most men. Pendants, on the other hand, often look best with a slightly longer chain, somewhere between 25 to 28 inches, finishing in the middle of your chest.
Pendant
Miansai
To add a pendant or not to add a pendant? That is the question. Those wanting something classic and minimal will steer clear, but it does beg the question: why not? A pendant is the chance to add something personal and intriguing, allowing for a little self-expression. There’s a wide variety of icons and symbols out there, so it’s worth shopping around for something relevant to your taste and personality.
Go To Brands For Men’s Chain Necklaces
Below you will find Ape’s recommended brands for men’s necklaces. Each offers high-quality materials, contemporary aesthetics and are specialists in their field.
JAXXON
The JAXXON 5mm Cuban Link Chain is the brands’ #1 top-selling chain and is a highly sought-after piece of jewellery renowned for its bold and timeless design. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this chain exemplifies elegance and luxury. The Cuban Link Chain is characterised by its interlocking, thick, and tightly woven links, creating a distinctive and substantial look. Made from premium quality 925 sterling silver coated in solid 14k gold, the chain exhibits a radiant and lustrous finish that catches the light effortlessly. Its solid construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a long-term investment in style. The JAXXON Cuban Link Chain is designed to be versatile, suitable for both casual and formal occasions, effortlessly elevating any outfit. With its secure lobster clasp closure, the chain offers peace of mind, ensuring it stays securely fastened around the neck. Whether worn alone as a statement piece or layered with other necklaces, the JAXXON Cuban Link Chain adds a touch of sophistication and confidence to any ensemble.
Thomas Sabo
One of world’s foremost silver jewellery brands, Thomas Sabo produces high-quality pieces with a touch of rock ‘n’ roll flair. Their iconic skull necklace epitomises this. Made with blackened 925 sterling silver and comprising a punk style lobster clasp, it’s an ideal piece for adding a little edge to your day-to-day looks.
Miansai
Miami-based brand Miansai is best known for its beaded bracelets, which have become a firm favourite of fashion insiders. Yet the label’s necklaces are just as lust-worthy, offering premium materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Many of the pendants on offer are inspired by the sea, with lobster claws, anchors and marine links particularly prominent, yet their simple 3mm 14-karat gold chain is our pick due to its timeless simplicity.
Le Gramme
Launched in 2012 by Adrien Messié and Erwan Le Louër, Paris-based Le Gramme (taking its name from the international unit of measure) is an ethical jewellery maker which specialises in minimalist pieces made from recycled 925 silver, yellow gold, and ruthenium. Each style is named after the weight of its materials and is hand-polished and engraved with the stamp of the master artisan who crafts it, along with its weight and unique serial number signifying its composition and provenance. Its a detail that looks particularly good on its Square Pendant Necklace.
AMBUSH
Innovative Japanese brand Ambush are all about creative experimentation and their pieces, as well as their fashion world devotees, reflect this. With a range of unisex designs that channel a distinct Tokyo aesthetic, it’s little wonder that AMBUSH’s necklaces sell out so quickly. Get one whilst you can.
Daniella Draper
An independent British brand founded in the north east of England, Daniella Draper rose to prominence handcrafting jewellery for the likes of Kate Moss, James Bay and Ed Sheeran. The brand’s Silver Midi Feather Necklace is a delicate pendant necklace channelling peace, wisdom and freedom.
David Yurman
Founded in 1980 by husband and wife team David and Sybil Yurman, their eponymous New York-based brand (featured image, top) sets out to create “wearable pieces of art”. Each piece is designed and sketched by David, with the company then sourcing the finest precious metals and rare gemstones and using some of the world’s best craftspeople to create the end product. A highlight from the current collection is the 6mm link chain in black titanium, which offers a subtle yet distinctive difference against its sterling silver counterparts.
Tateossian
Tateossian is a breath of fresh air in the jewellery world, partly because of its emphasis on male-centric items. They’re also innovative, offering pieces that mix classic materials like gold and diamonds with the unconventional, such as meteorite and copper nuggets. Their sterling silver anchor necklace is a stylish, contemporary take on a design that can often feel a little costume-y.
Alex Orso
With pieces meticulously designed in their London Bridge studio, Alex Orso is a modern British brand that concentrates on the understated and minimal. The label’s use of brass is also inspired. Our pick is their simple, cleanly finished gold oval pendant: cast in solid sterling silver and plated in 22kt gold, its high polish is sure to get you noticed.
Northskull
Another jewellery brand created solely for the gent, don’t be misled by the name (which suggests Nordic heavy metal) – Northskull’s wears are sleek, simple and at an extremely attractive price point. Dog tags and skulls feature heavily in collections, but there’s also interesting shapes and symbolism. Our pick is their Layers Necklace, available in sterling silver and part of the brand’s permanent collection.
