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Necklace length chart
Chain lengths are sold in inches in the US and centimetres almost everywhere else. Here's what each one is called, where it falls, and what it goes with.
Where does each necklace length actually fall?
The same 18-inch chain sits higher on someone with a thicker neck, because more of the chain is used just going around. Change the length and neck size to see the drop.
Princess
Falls just below the collarbone. The most popular women's length.
Hangs roughly 2.0 in (5 cm) below the base of the neck.
Necklace lengths in inches and cm
| Length | cm | Name | Where it sits* | Works with |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 in | 36 | Choker | High on the neck | Off-shoulder, boat neck |
| 16 in | 41 | Collar | Base of the neck | Open collars, V-necks |
| 18 in | 46 | Princess | Just below the collarbone | Almost everything |
| 20 in | 51 | Matinee (short) | A little below the collarbone | Crew necks, men's chains |
| 22 in | 56 | Matinee | Top of the chest | High necklines, men's pendants |
| 24 in | 61 | Long | Upper chest | Pendants over clothing |
| 30 in | 76 | Opera | Breastbone | Evening wear, doubled |
| 36 in | 91 | Rope | Upper waist | Wrapped or knotted |
*On an average adult neck of about 14 inches. On a larger neck, every length sits higher.
Men's necklace lengths
| Length | cm | How it wears |
|---|---|---|
| 18 in | 46 | Close to the neck, tight on larger necks |
| 20 in | 51 | Collarbone; common for slimmer builds |
| 22 in | 56 | Just below the collarbone; the most versatile |
| 24 in | 61 | Chest; good for pendants and dog tags |
| 30 in | 76 | Low on the chest; statement length |
Choosing a length
- Measure a necklace you like: lay it flat, clasp closed, and measure end to end.
- Mind the neckline: the pendant should sit above or clearly below the edge of the top, not on it.
- Layering: space chains about 2 inches (5 cm) apart, such as 16, 18 and 20.
- Neck size matters: for a neck of 15 inches or more, go up one length from the chart.
For wrists and hands, see the bracelet size chart and bangle sizes.
Questions people ask
What is the most popular necklace length?
For women, 18 inches (about 45 cm) is the most commonly sold length; it sits just below the collarbone and suits most necklines. For men, 20 to 22 inches is a common choice.
How do I measure my necklace size?
Put a piece of string around your neck and let it hang to where you want the necklace to sit, then measure the string. Or measure your neck and add about 2 inches (5 cm) for a necklace that sits at the base of the neck.
Does a pendant change the length?
Yes. A pendant pulls the chain into a V and hangs below it, so the pendant sits lower than the chain alone. Measure to where you want the top of the pendant.
What length necklace for a child?
Children's necklaces are commonly 13 to 15 inches (33–38 cm). Choose breakaway clasps for young children.