What is a bar necklace?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A bar necklace is a pendant style featuring a horizontal metal bar, plain or set with stones, suspended from a chain so it sits across the base of the neck. The bar can be engraved with a name, date or coordinates, set with diamonds or birthstones along its length, or left as a clean geometric statement in polished gold or silver. The style became particularly popular from the 2010s onwards as a personalised gift and has stayed a staple of contemporary fine jewellery.
Frequently asked questions
- What can you engrave on a bar necklace?
- Names, dates, meaningful words, initials and GPS coordinates are all popular choices. The bar's flat surface takes engraving cleanly, and a good engraver can work in various fonts from fine handwriting scripts to clean block lettering.
- What is the difference between a bar necklace and a T-bar necklace?
- A standard bar necklace has the bar as a pendant hanging from a chain, with the bar sitting horizontally. A T-bar necklace uses a bar as the fastening clasp, with the bar threading through a loop to close the necklace, which is a different mechanism rather than a pendant style.
- What chain length works best for a bar necklace?
- A 40 to 45 cm chain sits the bar at the base of the neck, which is the most common length. A longer 50 cm chain drops it to the collarbone area, which works well for layering with shorter necklaces.
Designing a ring
Talk through bar necklace with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio