What are the main necklace lengths?

A choker sits at roughly 35 to 40 cm at the base of the neck, a princess length falls at 45 to 50 cm just below the collarbone, a matinee sits at 50 to 60 cm on the chest, an opera length reaches 70 to 80 cm, and a rope necklace is anything longer. The right length depends on neckline and personal preference.

What is the difference between a necklace and a pendant?

A pendant is a decorative element that hangs from a chain or cord, while the necklace is the whole piece including both the chain and whatever hangs from it. A plain chain with no drops is a necklace; a chain with a gem or charm attached is a pendant necklace.

What necklace looks good on every neckline?

A princess-length fine chain or delicate pendant at 45 to 50 cm is the most versatile; it sits well against crew necks, V-necks and off-the-shoulder styles. For lower necklines, a longer pendant or drop necklace tends to fill the space better.

What is a necklace?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

A necklace is an ornament worn around the neck, ranging from a delicate chain with a single pendant to a multi-strand statement piece. Necklaces come in a wide variety of lengths, from the choker sitting close to the throat at around 35 cm, through the princess length at 45 to 50 cm which falls just below the collarbone, to the longer opera and rope lengths. They are made in precious metals, set with gemstones, strung with pearls or beads, or crafted in a wide range of styles from minimalist to ornate.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main necklace lengths?: A choker sits at roughly 35 to 40 cm at the base of the neck, a princess length falls at 45 to 50 cm just below the collarbone, a matinee sits at 50 to 60 cm on the chest, an opera length reaches 70 to 80 cm, and a rope necklace is anything longer. The right length depends on neckline and personal preference.
What is the difference between a necklace and a pendant?: A pendant is a decorative element that hangs from a chain or cord, while the necklace is the whole piece including both the chain and whatever hangs from it. A plain chain with no drops is a necklace; a chain with a gem or charm attached is a pendant necklace.
What necklace looks good on every neckline?: A princess-length fine chain or delicate pendant at 45 to 50 cm is the most versatile; it sits well against crew necks, V-necks and off-the-shoulder styles. For lower necklines, a longer pendant or drop necklace tends to fill the space better.

Designing a ring

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