When it comes to permanent jewellery, the chain is everything. It is what your clients will see, wear and love every single day, so finding the right one matters. Whether you are just getting started or looking to expand your range, this guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the perfect chains for your welded creations.
1. Know Your Materials
Permanent jewellery chains come in a few key materials and understanding the difference is the first step.
•14k Gold Filled - Our best selling choice for a reason. It is durable, tarnish resistant and keeps its shine even with daily wear. The layer of gold is pressure bonded to the base metal rather than plated, which means it will not flake or fade easily.
•Sterling Silver (925) - Loved for its bright, classic finish. A timeless metal that suits every skin tone and style, offering both elegance and durability for everyday wear.
•Solid Gold (9k) - A luxury option for fine jewellery studios. Hallmarked for authenticity, solid gold is designed to last a lifetime and can command premium pricing for custom orders.
2. Choosing the Right Chain Style
Different clients and weld spots call for different looks. Here are some of the most popular styles for permanent jewellery.
•Curb and Rolo – Slightly chunkier, giving more sparkle under the light.
•Satellite and Beaded – Add subtle detail for clients who want something dainty but different.
•Paperclip and Fancy Links – Modern statement styles that weld beautifully and stand out in photos.
•Tennis Chains – High shine and high impact, perfect for customers who love glam.
→Tip: Always keep a mix of dainty and statement chains in your kit. It lets clients find something that suits their personal style and price point.
3. Width and Size Guide
Chain size is one of the most common areas of confusion, especially when you are ordering in bulk. Here is a quick breakdown.
•1.2mm to 1.5mm: These are perfect for subtle, everyday bracelets or layering pieces. They are more suited to experienced permanent jewellery artists as the smaller links can be slightly trickier to handle and weld.
•1.6mm to 2.3mm: A best selling range that is visible enough to sparkle but still dainty on the wrist.
•2.5mm and above: Great for anklets or bolder customers who love a statement chain.
→Always pair your chain with the correct jump ring gauge for a secure weld. For example, a 1.5mm cable chain usually pairs perfectly with a 0.8mm to 1.0mm jump ring.
4. Matching Chains to Clients
Every client is different and that is where your expertise shines. Here is a quick reference:
•Minimalist styles: Choose thin cable or satellite chains.
•Stack lovers: Mix dainty with chunky curb or belcher chains.
•Sentimental clients: Pick chains that pair well with charms or connectors.
•Active clients: Go for solid, tightly linked chains such as curb or rolo.
5. Mix Metals and Add Personality
Do not be afraid to mix silver and gold. It is one of the biggest trends of the year. Combining metals makes your displays look curated and gives clients more styling options. You can also bring in pops of colour with enamel, opal or CZ connectors for a more personalised touch.
6. Quality Over Quantity
Not all chains are made equally. Every chain we stock at Links Permanent Jewellery Supplies is machine cut for consistency and tested for weldability. This means smooth joins and a professional finish every time.
We also try and test every single item we sell. As permanent jewellery artists ourselves, we know how important it is that every chain welds beautifully, wears comfortably and stands the test of time.
Shop Our Chain Collection
And do not forget to tag @linkspermanentjewellerysupplies when you post your welded pieces. We love to see your creations shine.📸
