If you really want to feel like you own a place from the moment you walk in, then you need to wear a diamond chain around your neck. No matter what type of outfit you’re wearing, a chain gives you the confidence and others the impression that you know exactly what you’re doing.

There are many different types of chains, but perhaps the most popular link style is the Cuban chain. These are variations of the standard link chain that feature ovular links which intersect in a rope pattern. When you think of a chain necklace, this is probably what comes to mind.

Thinking about buying a Cuban link for yourself? There are a few things you’ll want to consider ahead of time before you spend more money than you need to. But don’t worry, we’re here to help out.

What Size Should I Get?

One of the first things you’ll want to consider is the size of the chain, both in terms of width and length. Let’s start with width. Most Cuban chains can range from anywhere from 3mm in width to 19mm in width, and the size you want depends on a few factors.

For one, how bold of a statement are you looking to make? If you’re one of those people who loves to command a room based on appearances alone, then you’ll definitely want to stick to the larger end of the spectrum. But if you’re one who appreciates the power of a chain but doesn’t want it to distract from the rest of your look, then stick with smaller widths.

19mm Diamond Prong Cuban 2 Tone White/Rose Gold

If you don’t know what you like, bigger pieces are in style right now. Likely due to lost time from the pandemic, people tend to be wearing bigger and bolder accessories to make themselves stick out from the people around them. Look for pieces that are 15mm in width and above if you want to make the biggest statements.

As far as the length, we recommend shorter length chains for the time being. While those dangling chains that are reminiscent of hip hop legends from the 80s and 90s seem to come back into style every now and then, right now, chains that sit just below the neck tend to be the most popular.

With that in mind, you’ll want to go for a Cuban link length that’s between 18 and 22 inches, as these will hang down between the bottom of your neck and the bottom of your chest. Anything shorter than that will start to look like a choker, and anything longer might look a bit dated for the current 2021 trends.

Gold or Diamonds?

The next step in determining which type of Cuban link is right for you is deciding what kind of finish you’re going to want. This mostly comes down to personal preference, but we have some pointers.

Gold chains are definitely in right now, and the brassy color of this metal works really nicely with darker-colored clothing, especially black. Gold chains are also usually better suited for pendants, so if you like to wear religious symbols or lockets for your loved ones, gold links might work slightly better with your personalized touch.

Cuban links, however, often look extra smooth when diamonds are handset on top. It gives them a reflective quality that shines from every angle, helping to make them stand out even more. If you’re going with a larger-sized Cuban chain, you definitely want to consider getting one that’s decked out with high clarity diamonds.

Also, you can get the best of both worlds by getting a diamond Cuban link chain that has a golden finish. This 12mm Diamond Prong Cuban Chain in white gold, for example, combines the clean polish of white gold vermeil with the powerful vividness of VS1 simulant diamonds. This is the perfect way to look classy while making moves.

Should I Add Some Color?

The usual white gold and yellow gold Cuban chains are perfect in pretty much everywhere, and they complement most outfits nicely. However, you don’t need to stop there.

12mm Diamond Prong Cuban Chain Rose Gold

Rose gold is a growing variation that’s possible by mixing other types of metal alloy with gold. It looks vividly different from the usual white or yellow gold Cuban chains, so if you want something that’s going to turn heads at the next party you attend, you may want to consider a  12mm Diamond Prong Cuban Chain in rose gold.

You also don’t need to settle for just one color, either. There are two-tone Cuban chains that combine the classic shades with more modern colors to give you the best of both worlds. These are great for people who aren’t afraid to try something new, or even just for people who can’t decide which color they like the most.

Where To Get Quality Cuban Chains?

It’s better to have one exceptional Cuban chain than many poor-quality ones. Many people think that in order to get the best pieces, you need to spend a lot of money on authentic stones or metals. The reality, though, is that you can get better quality jewelry for a fraction of the cost if you know where to look.

Solid gold is expensive because of its rarity and how difficult it is to mine. And diamonds are really only worth so much because of their history. The price has nothing to do with the quality of the substance itself, so why spend so much when you don’t need to?

19mm Diamond Prong Cuban 18k Gold

An inexpensive alternative to solid gold Cuban chains is gold plated or vermeil. These incorporate real gold alongside other high-quality metals to make them more accessible to your wallet without sacrificing quality. In fact, many jewelers recommend vermeil because it is easier to maintain despite a much lower price point.

Diamond simulants are also a great way to enhance a gold-plated chain without putting you into debt. Cubic zirconia (CZ) diamonds can be cut in the exact same ways as diamonds. CZ crystals even tend to have higher quality features, such as better color and fewer blemishes compared to hard-to-find diamond stones.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with going for the real thing. Having real diamonds or gold hanging around your neck is an unmatched feeling and is proof of excellence and success. With so many options, it’s hard to go wrong.

Sleek Style

Wearing Cuban chains is a great way to make yourself stand out, but you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing one properly so that you’re enhancing your look instead of bringing it down. One of the ways to do this is by knowing which types of chains are in style right now.

As far as length and size, you’ll want shorter length chains with thicker width. And you’ll also want to consider decking out these big chains with some huge diamonds to match. Finally, consider adding a little bit of color by getting some rose gold plated finishes that set your chain apart from everyone else.

 

Sources:

NEXT POST Hip Hop History: From the Streets to the Mainstream | Icon Collective

About gold jewelery | World Gold Council

The Engagement Ring Industry is Ripping You Off | Business Insider