A quick guide to necklace lengthsby Kate Richbourg
Published:
November 29, 2011
The knotted-pearl necklace I made for the January issue of Bead Style (page 76) is eight feet long. because it's (way!) over 36 inches it's called a rope necklace. Below are the common parameters and terms for the most common necklace lengths.
Remember when choosing
your beads that knots act like spacer beads and along with the clasp will add
to the overall length of the finished necklace. Depending on the size of the
knots expect the necklace to grow 1-2 in. (2.5-5 cm) after knotting.
Collar (12-13 in./30-33 cm) This style fits snugly around the base of
the neck and is normally made up of several close-fitting strands. The necklace
may be enhanced with jeweled spacers or a large centerpiece. The look is very
formal and is perfect for evening wear.
Choker (14-16 in./36-41 cm) The choker has slightly more drape than
collar length and usually falls above the neckline. The look can be made more
casual by mixing accent beads — such as crystals and semi-precious stones — to bring a more
eclectic style to the classic pearl design.
Princess (17-19 in./43-48 cm) A popular style for graduated pearls. This
versatile length looks great with high or low necklines.
Matinee (20-24 in./51-61 cm) Slightly longer than the princess. Measure
carefully when fitting this style as it should fall just above the bust line.
This length works best when paired with a high neckline.
Opera (28-36 in./71-90 cm) Think formal for this style. Elegant and
refined, this piece can be worn single or wrapped as a double strand depending
on the outfit it is paired with.
Rope (36 in./90 cm and longer) Long and lovely ropes of pearls may be
looped around the neck to create any length. Leave it long or wrap it several
times around the neck. This necklace makes the wearer shine in the spotlight.
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