Types of Chains
The jewelry industry is often segmented into gold jewelry and solid gold jewelry. The difference is that while gold jewelry is made using gold, solid gold chains wholesale is made using solid gold. The latter consists of either 10, 12, or 14 karats. Chains come in various styles and are used to make necklaces or bracelets.
- Figaro chain: The Figaro chain is a mixed-length link chain. It alternates between short and long segments. This unique pattern offers a balance of simplicity and elegance, making it popular for both standalone wear and as a base for pendants. The chain's roots trace back to Italy, where it was traditionally believed to bring good fortune. In contemporary design, Figaro chains seamlessly integrate into both casual and formal jewelry collections, favored for their eye-catching yet understated aesthetic.
- Cuban chain: The classic, also called the Miami chain, is a chain where its links are twisted.
This chain style is popular with many people and can even be seen on celebrities. This is especially for chains made of sterlings and gold.
- Rope chain: What's easily identifiable about a rope chain is that it mimics a rope if it's twisted designed. This chain is also very popular across many households.
- Snake chain: This chain consists of smooth, round, and uniform segments that fit well with each other. The chain is flexible and can easily get deprived of its smooth and shiny look.
- Box chain: Also called a square link chain, a box chain has links that are shaped like squares and are interconnected. This chain is very sturdy and can be worn daily.
Design of Chains
The design of jewelry is important since it can make a product stand out and increase its sales. Interesting designs can attract customers even if the product's material is basic.
- Classic chains: Classic designs refer to chains that have been worn over the years and have become part of the norm. However, the materials used may be innovative. Examples include cuban link chains and rope chains.
- Personalized chains: This is a trend where chains are made in a specific way to represent the person's name, an important date, or other values. It makes them feel unique to the wearer. This design is favored among young people who are looking for distinct items or those who like customizable jewelry.
- Layered chains: Even if chunky chains are preferred, layered chains are still in demand, especially with thin and delicate chains. This is because of how good two or three chains look when worn together, especially if pendants are added. Jewelry stores can benefit from this trend by adding multiple chain strands and encouraging customers to mix and match them.
- Charm and pendant chains: Styles that can accommodate additional features like charms or pendants are increasing in popularity. They provide users with the optionality of personalizing their jewelry.
Material of Chains
Gold is not the only material that can be used to produce chains. There are a variety of materials and well as designs that can be used to produce solid gold chains that are ideal based on profit considerations.
- Gold-filled chains: These chains tend to be more affordable since they are made of 14k or 18k gold that is filled using heat and pressure to attached metal base. It also has the same appeal as solid gold. It is a great choice for chains that will be used to make trendy jewelry.
- Stainless steel chains: Stainless steel chains are among the most popular. They are preferred by people looking for solid gold chain jewelry alternatives. Stainless steel is highly durable and resists scratches easily. It can be combined with gold plating or other techniques to prevent it from tarnishing.
- Silver chains: They offer the versatility that allows them to be incorporated into a variety of designs and styles. However, since they can tarnish, they require regular cleaning.
- Plated chains: Although gold-plated chains are made using a thin gold layer on a different metal base, they do not have the same feel as solid gold chains. Nonetheless, they are still affordable.
- Rhodium-plated chains: Rhodium is in the platinum family of metals. Chains that are rhodium-plated have an appealing mirror-like finish. Rhodium is also used to prevent gold chains from tarnishing and even oxidizing.
How to Choose Chains
When selecting wholesale gold chains, buyers should consider various factors to ensure they get the right products for their customers. The first thing to consider is the right karat. This is because different karts contain different gold concentrations. The higher the karats, the higher the gold concentration. A karat of 14 is ideal since it balances between strength and gold purity. 18 and 24 karts are much purer and costlier.
Buyers also need to decide whether to purchase plated, filled, or as is. Gold-plated is affordable but cannot be worn daily as it tarnishes. Gold-filled, on the other hand, is durable and can be worn daily.
Another consideration is the type of the chain. Different styles appeal to different customers. For instance, youngsters may prefer modern and personalized designs, while older customers may like classic styles that are not too flashy.
Buyers should stock a variety of options. The reason is that customers may want additional thickness or length in their chain. Once buyers settle for a specific type and design, they should request samples first before bulk ordering. This will give them an understanding of the craftsmanship of the chains.
How To Use & Application of Chains
Knowing how a product is used or its application is important to retailers. The same goes for gold chains. Retailers use gold chains as standalone products. Mostly, these are delicate chains that are meant to support pendants. These chains can also be used for the layered jewelry trend that is becoming increasingly popular.
Gold chains are often used for branding purposes. Companies can add their logos to the chains to create brand awareness. This style is mostly popular with the rope chain.
Gold chains can also be used as giveaways or promotional items. Companies often emblaze a gold chain with their promotional details and "give it away" as a marketing strategy.
These chains can also be combined with synthetic beads and stones for an interesting new design. This benefits both parties since the gold accentuates the beads and stones while the beads and stones bring down the price of the chain.
Gold chains also have investment benefits. Many people buy gold jewelry nowadays and stash it away in hope that it will accrue value with time. Occasionally, the owner may choose to wear or sell the chain.
Maintenance & Preservation of Chains
Proper maintenance not only prevents the chains from looking bad but also helps them last longer. Below are some of the ways through which retailers can help their chains last longer.
- Avoid exposure to chemicals: Gold, unlike other metals, does not react to chemicals. However, when gold is combined with other metals, it tends to be susceptible to chemical tarnishing. Detergents, lotions, and perfumes have chemicals that can tarnish gold chains. Chains should, therefore, be stored away from such items.
- Regular cleaning: Chains can be maintained by regularly cleaning them. Clean all solid gold chains using a soft and damp cloth at least once a day. Jewelry stores may also opt to give their customers free chain cleaning cloths.
- Store chains properly: Chains can easily get tangled. This not only makes the chain difficult to wear but may also damage it. To prevent this, hang the chains when storing them. Store necklaces separately in pouches or dedicated boxes to avoid them getting tangled.
- Avoid wearing during activities: Chains, especially delicate ones, can easily get damaged. This may include bending, getting scratched, or even breaking. Retailers should, therefore, advise their customers to avoid wearing chains when sleeping, exercising, or engaging in rough activities.
- Use anti-tarnish strips: Tarnishing can be common with non-solid gold chains. One method that retailers can employ to help their customers avoid tarnishing is using anti-tarnish strips. These strips should be placed in the area where chains are being stored.
Q&A
Can a jewelry store offer both solid and non-solid gold chains?
Yes, a jewelry store can sell both. Different customers have different preferences. Some prefer the sturdiness and classic look of gold-filled chains, while others want the glitter and sheen of solid gold chains.
How can a chain's value be increased?
The value of solid gold chains can be increased through good craftsmanship and innovative designs. To do this, retailers can incorporate durable materials and unique designs that appeal to a variety of customers.
How can solid gold chain value be determined by buyers?
Buyers can determine the value of solid gold chains by looking at the quality of the gold used, the design, and the craftsmanship.
