What is a snake chain necklace?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A snake chain is made from small, tightly fitted round or curved metal rings linked side by side to create a smooth, flexible tube with a polished, scale-like surface that moves like snake skin. It is elegant and sleek, with a characteristic smooth drape and a gentle S-shaped motion as it moves. Snake chains are popular for pendant necklaces and bracelets because their clean surface shows off whatever hangs from them, and they come in a wide range of widths in gold, silver and rose gold.
Frequently asked questions
- Are snake chains strong?
- They are elegant but more delicate than link chains like curb or belcher chains. Because the rings are tightly interlocked, a kink or sharp bend can damage the structure, so it is worth handling them gently and not catching them on sharp edges.
- Can a broken snake chain be repaired?
- Yes, though it can be fiddly. A jeweller can solder a break, but the tight, interlocking structure means a repair can sometimes leave a faint join. For very fine snake chains, a full replacement may be more practical.
- What is the difference between a snake chain and a box chain?
- A snake chain uses rounded, curved links for a smooth tubular look, while a box chain uses square links connected end-to-end for a more angular, geometric appearance. Both are smooth and sleek compared to flat link chains.
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