Necklace length question

Hi Christine,

Chokers are tight around the smallest part of the neck, often around 14". Chains are sold in 16" and 18" lengths. 16" is usually close across the base of the neck, and 18" hangs just under the hollow of the necklace. With large beads, the beads to the inside of the string takes up room, so the circumference of the neck is less than the length of the necklace. Using larger beads, and being a large woman, I find 17" to 17 1/2" works well for a necklace close at the base of the neck.

I'd also like to point out that usually the beads at the front are largest. There are practical reasons. Smaller beads are less expensive, and the back is less visible. Small and/or similarly shaped and sized beads are less likely to be felt, or to irritate the back of the neck, and are more comfortable under clothes. Larger beads in front also will draw the weight of the necklace down and keep the necklace in place and centered.

Welcome to the group>

Tina

I personally put extension chains on all of my necklaces, and start them off at 16", that way there is a choice at how long to have them.

Although having said that I finished one a few days ago that was 14", that though started at 16" but had to shorten it as it didn't quite look right and i'd used wire and didn't want to redo the whole thing!

Thanks for the tip - that's a good idea. I have a few necklaces with extensions. I'll ask for them next time I'm at the store.

LOL, I know what you mean :-) I was so proud after I made my first necklace, then I realized that I had missed one of the smaller blue beads. Restringing it was a pain, but at least I didn't make that mistake again.

Best, Christine

Thanks for the welcome :-) I hope to be posting more in the future.

And thanks for the useful advice...I didn't realize that chains were sold in 16" and 18" lengths either. That first necklace I made is actually pretty heavy, but I liked those blue beads so much :-)

Best, Christine