Necklaces are the largest pieces of jewelry for personal adornment. That means the most space to make a statement with bold materials and designs. Designing a necklace gives the artist the opportunity to get creative and wow the audience.

What styles of necklaces are there? If you are new to making necklaces, it may help to introduce some of the jewelry making lingo. 

Chains can be worn alone as simple fashion statements or embellished in various ways. A single pendant drop attached to a chain is known as a pendant neck chain. Variations include necklaces with multiple, smaller charms; or, layered necklaces with a single charm suspended from each.

Designs made with beads and findings strung onto a beading wire or silk thread comprise this category. Beaded necklaces are usually finished with a toggle clasp or that can support the heavier weight of necklace beading. Beaded necklaces range from classic knotted pearl necklaces to intricate seed bead woven accessories.

Choker-length necklaces that hug the collarbone are often forged from a single piece of metal. These collars have a rigid structure and are c-shaped to hang around the neck without needing a clasp. Forged neckpieces may be minimal, or they can be decorated with gemstones.

Bib necklaces may be made from chain, beading, or different materials altogether. The bib necklace style consists of a foundation circlet that clasps around the neck and supports an elaborate “bib” of adornment that suspends from the circlet. Bib necklaces are large, elaborate neckpieces. They are often woven or intricately linked together to create an ornamental curtain effect.

Traditional gemstone necklaces are made by bench jewelers who are skilled craftsmen. Faceted gemstones are mounted into settings arranged into thoughtful configurations. A bench jeweler can vary the size, shape, and arrangement of the settings as well as the types of stones for unlimited options.