A Gold Chain Necklace for Every Occasion—Shop This Season’s Top Styles

One could argue that the gold chain necklace is the most ubiquitous accessory of all time. The style, which was championed by both ancient Egyptian rulers and early 2000s R&B recording artists, has transcended time and culture, becoming a fan favorite amongst not only off-duty models but also on-the-go, modern-day moms. Few jewelry baubles can claim to have as robust (and versatile) a presence as the gold chain can.

With an endless array of iterations — from thin, barely-there metallic strands to bolder, statement-making chains that instantly command attention — gold chain necklaces are some of the best gold jewelry pieces for both everyday wear and special occasion dressing.

They’ve been repped by almost every notable A-lister, artist, and athlete worth mentioning, and are consistently rocked by not just power players, but also power couples. Even Justin and Hailey Bieber, who rarely appear aligned on one, singular dress code (and who are notorious for their extremely opposing styles) seem to agree that the gold chain necklace is an accessory to embrace, and this star-studded pair isn’t the only couple who has shown their joint support for the style.

Victoria and David Beckham, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas, Beyonce and Jay-Z, and buzziest of all, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce (both of whom donned gold chains during their first joint public appearance as a couple) are just a few it-couples who have indulged in a good gold chain or two over the years.

Even two-time Super Bowl champion, Patrick Mahomes, and his wife, Brittany Mahomes (the newest member of Swift’s girl gang), sported significantly sizeable chains at the 2023 ESPY Awards, earlier this year. Him in a diamond-encrusted curb chain, and her in a dramatic, giant link necklace, proving that the gold chain is a winning his and hers jewelry piece.

Whether you style them solo, layered, or adorned with charms to create your very own personalized charm necklace (a more modern take on the classic charm bracelet), gold chain necklaces are the everyday accessories you’ll wear time and time again. 

Below, our guide to the best gold chain necklaces on the market today: from Box to Cuban to Rolo, Figaro to Wheat to Snake, or even the oh-so-versatile Paperclip, the options are endless.

The Best Gold Chains, According to Vogue

• The Delicate Chain: Monica Vinader 16-inch fine bead station necklace, $95
• The Bold Chain: Jenny Bird le tome Sofia disc choker necklace, $200
• The Layering Chain: Jennifer Fisher 60″ small gold-tone necklace, $280
• The Lariat Chain: AllSaints snake chain lariat necklace, $59 
• The Glamorous Chain: Ben-Amun gold necklace with crystals, $345

Delicate and Thin

While some may find a delicate gold chain a bit inconspicuous (only slightly peeking out from the collar of one’s blouse) it’s the ideal accessory for the if you know, you know crowd — the jewelry equivalent of the tried and true no-makeup-makeup look. 

Big and Bold

Try a chunky, hunky gold link when you want your outfit to ooze in-your-face attitude.

Layered and Long

Layered chains and long loops are great ways to add dimension to your looks.

Lariats

The lariat is the sultry provocateur of the jewelry world, known for its ultra feminine design that elongates the neck and draws attention to the décolletage — an ideal accessory for when you want to feel sophisticated and sexy.

All Out Glamour

While many chains are perfect for day to day wear, these picks exude glamor for those extra special affairs.