Diamond Necklaces

Types of Diamond Necklaces

There are two distinctive types of necklace designs: simple chains with the diamonds interwoven throughout the metal, and the more common pendants, which are by far the most popular and widely varied designs.

Pendants

Pendants come in a tremendous array of designs, from abstract geometric figures, spirals, twists, pinwheels, teardrops, and plain stick pendants to both elegant and crazy figural motifs, including crosses, stars, crowns, butterflies, shoes, sandals, flip flops, flamingos, apples, cherries, initials, and more. Heart-shaped pendants are by far the most popular, and even those come in a variety of styles. The diamond settings are typically prongs, channels, or bezels, though pave settings are common for more elaborate and expensive pieces.

Men’s Necklaces

There is a limited variety of men’s diamond necklaces available as well. Common designs include simple crosses or dog tags with a single diamond accent, or thicker chains that have small diamonds interspersed along the entire length. Generally, men’s necklaces are shorter and less flashy than women’s designs, though some men may appreciate a sentimental figural design such as an initial or hobby-oriented charm.

Types of Diamonds Used in Necklaces

The types of diamonds used in pendants and necklaces vary nearly as much as those used in engagement rings. Generally, however, necklace diamonds may be smaller than ring stones, and they are often treated to improve their quality. Because of their rarity and greater expense, colored diamonds are rarely used in necklaces, though small diamonds may be used to accent other colored gems or pearls. Black diamonds can be found in very exclusive designs, often paired with colorless stones for a startling contrast.

Shape

While engagement rings use a wide range of different shapes, the most common shapes for diamond necklaces are round, emerald, and heart. Round and emerald stones, in particular, can be easily arranged in a variety of unique designs using multiple stones, while heart shapes are more frequently reserved for pendants that use only one stone.

Quality

The quality of stones in a necklace is generally lower than those used for engagement rings that receive more scrutiny. Synthetic stones are common for necklaces, especially those that use multiple gems, and cubic zirconia is a frequent substitute, especially if the diamonds are accents to another stone or a larger design. Nonetheless, if real diamonds are used, consumers should carefully inspect the stones as well as the security of the settings to insure they are purchasing a quality product.

Arrangement

Contemporary necklace.

The arrangement of diamonds in a pendant or necklace varies with each design. Some figural motifs are encrusted with stones in a pave setting, while others may use a single brilliant gem as a focal point or accent to a figure, such as the center of a cross or the eye of an animal. Diamonds may appear to dangle from thin metal strands or bars, or they may be outlining a particular shape. Chandelier designs are also popular, using multiple stones in a geometric web similar to a crystal chandelier.

Choosing the Best Necklace

The first step to choosing an appropriate diamond necklace is to select a motif or design that reflects the interest and jewelry preferences of the recipient. After the pendant design is chosen, the primary consideration will be length – necklaces are available in a range of lengths, from 12-45 inches. The most common size for diamond strands, however, is from 14-19 inches: choker and princess lengths. These are easily worn with a variety of different clothing and are not so long as to become prone to accidental damage.

Another variation in necklace design that must be considered is the width of the chain. A very delicate, linked chain can be extremely fragile, yet it may be entirely appropriate for a small, unobtrusive diamond accent. Thicker chains and ropes are more practical and versatile, while herringbone chains are the thickest designs and only work well with thicker pendants.

Cost

Several factors affect the cost of a diamond necklace, including the type of metal (sterling silver, yellow gold, white gold, platinum, and multi-tone designs are all popular), the total carat weight of the diamonds, their general quality, and the intricacy of the design. Costs range from under $100 to several thousand dollars.

When to Give a Diamond Necklace

Diamond necklaces make delightful gifts for any occasion, but they are particularly popular for Valentine's Day, birthdays, and anniversaries. Mother-and-child designs also make admirable Mother’s Day gifts, and many brides receive either diamond earrings or a necklace to wear for their wedding.

With a virtually unlimited array of designs available, diamond necklaces are an essential part of any jewelry ensemble. They can be worn with nearly any type of wardrobe and for any occasion, and any woman would appreciate a truly elegant diamond pendant or chain as a romantic, thoughtful gift.