Gold Chains in St Thomas

Before you actually buy a gold chain necklace, there are several important factors to consider. What type of links are in the gold chain? When buying a gold chain are you wanting one that is solid gold? What karat is it? We’ve put together a list of the most important characteristics you should pay attention to when buying a gold chains.

Solid Gold Chains vs. Plated or Hollow

If keeping the price low is your priority then plated gold chains are cheaper. But keep in mind, the plating will wear off after some time. This will expose the actual metal underneath, and you will need to have the chain replated if you want to restore its color.

If you want something that will last a lifetime and continue to go up in value a solid gold chain is the best choice. Solid chains are also much more durable.

In addition, some gold chains are made hollow – you will notice that they feel much lighter than solid pieces of similar size. Some people like the lightweight feel and again they are cheaper than solid chains. But they have a big drawback. Hollow chains are easy to break, dent and tangle. Once that happens, they are nearly impossible to repair. They are very delicate and certainly something you would not want to sleep wearing.

Karat for Your Gold Chain

Gold purity is measured in karat weight. The purer the gold, the softer and less durable it will be. If you want to wear your chain every day stay away from the higher karat gold chains. 14 karat gold chains or 18 karat gold chains will be a good option.

What Gold Chain Should You Buy If You Are Allergic to Nickel?

Many low karat gold alloys contain nickel. And the lower the gold purity, the more nickel the piece may contain.

Stay away from 10Kt gold if you are concerned about having an allergic reaction. You can always ask your jeweler about your specific chain to see if it has nickel but keep in mind some of the less reputable jewelry stores do not know or will mislead you. Stick with 14Kt or 18Kt gold instead.

Picking Your Gold Link Type

A box chain or wheat chain are generally the most durable type of chain. They are generally flexible and can easily hold a pendant if you are wanting that. Kingslink, also called Byzantine is a super durable chain that is gorgeous with or without a pendant. Rope gold chains are another popular and great choice!

Gucci chains have become a popular choice for their durability and increase in value over time.

Herringbone and omega chains are beautiful flat chains but are prone to twisting. Once you get one really twisted it’s nearly impossible to put back in it’s original shape.

The thickness of your chain is really your preference.

Gold Chains at Renaissance Jewelers

At Renaissance Jewelers we have a huge selection of gold chains in the styles mentioned. And we can always tell you the karat of your chain and whether it contains nickel. If after some time you are wishing you had bought another chain we have a lifetime jewelry trade-up program. This is why we are one of the most trusted jewelry stores on St Thomas. And we have a 5-star rating on all social media!