Today, it’s not uncommon to see a man wearing a gold chain. In fact, men of all ages, sizes, and economic backgrounds like the look and feel of gold against their skin. Maybe you’re thinking about looking at Franco, rope, or Cuban link chains. Here are some good things to know before you shop.
Karats – More is Not Necessarily Better
The difference between 10K and 14K is significant. 14K has a higher gold percentage than 10K. 10K is harder, more durable, and cheaper than 14K. It has less gold which means there are more metal alloys that may irritate skin. On the other hand, 14K gold is durable enough for everyday wear, and because it has more gold, it’s less likely to cause irritations.
What about 18K gold? It is purer than 10K or 14K, so you would think it’s the best choice. Actually, gold is a soft metal, and because 18K has so much gold content, it’s easier to scratch and damage. This is why most men prefer 14K for chains.
Which Style?
Should you choose Franco or Miami Cuban link chains? Both chains are very popular these days. The Franco chain has its roots in Italy and features V-shaped links.
Miami chains are thick and heavy and popular with the hip hop crowd. Cuban link chains have thick links which look like snake-skin and are some of the most durable chains on the market today.
Ball Chains
A ball chain has many ball-shaped links together. They are commonly used with pendants, and you can choose from many sizes.
Rope Chains
Rope chains come in strands that look like gold rope. However, they have one problem. If a link fails, the chain can come apart. This is not a problem when you choose chains from a trusted jeweler. They offer excellent guarantees with high-quality selections at affordable prices.