Most people wear chains without putting too much thought into the actual links themselves. Usually, if a piece looks stylish, that’s enough to make you want to throw it on.

Understanding the different types of chains can give you a better idea of which styles and varieties you prefer for yourself over others. And a box chain is one of the more prominent chain variations that can stand out in a crowd.

Here’s everything you need to know about box chains, as well as how you can style them and what they might pair nicely with.

What Do Box Chains Look Like?

As its name suggests, a box chain consists of square links forged from square or box-shaped wires. These individual boxes connect with one another to create a symmetrical chain style that aligns together to make for a uniquely profound shape.

Box chains are sometimes referred to as square link chains, briolette, or Venetian chains. 

Benefits of Box Chains

One of the most important aspects of a chain style is how they look. If you like the appearance of box chains, then there’s not much else that really matters. With that said, there are some other benefits of these styles that might make them worth the investment.

Durability

The box chains can be a sturdy chain type if the interlinking wire and box design is made of a strong enough metal. When crafted correctly, each individual link is thicker and less likely to break apart.

If you properly care for and maintain your pieces, they can last a long time. These are suitable chains for day-to-day wear on several different types of occasions. Gold itself is a durable metal compared to many other types of jewelry metals.

Versatility

These chains are also highly versatile and can come in multiple styles and colors. White gold and yellow gold pieces both have the ability to work as a statement piece, especially when you get thicker variations that use larger boxes or wires in each link.

These chains are also unisex, meaning that both men and women can enjoy them. Box chains also come in smaller variations that are perfect for holding onto a pendant since the designs are so sturdy.

While box chains are versatile, they tend to lack the splash of more instantly recognizable pieces. When looking to make a big statement, consider something flashier, like the Figaro chain or similar. 

Easily Repairable

Box chains don’t easily wear down, but in the event that they do, they can be easily replaced without compromising the integrity of the rest of the chain. Box chains can be easily mended if normal wear and tear occurs (however, this should be done by a professional jeweler). 

Disadvantages of Box Chains

Again, if you like how a chain looks or feels, then it doesn’t matter what some of the disadvantages might be. But if you’re on the fence about whether or not you want to go with this chain variation.

One of the major drawbacks is that box chains worn with heavy pendants have the potential to stretch over time. Since the links are made with a thin metal, they might elongate if you consistently use thick, bulky pendants in addition to them. Pure, 24-karat gold is an easily malleable metal that can be beaten into a thin film, so it is easily stretched.

Additionally, they can get thinner or stiffer if you pull on them or if they accidentally get yanked. Thin variations of box chains can also break easily, though the sleek design often outweighs this disadvantage. Some people also find the box chain to be abrasive and not as comfortable as other striking chain types. 

If you’re looking for an alternative to a box chain to help you achieve your own signature look, you have plenty of options. Explore the different chain styles in our collection, including our Rosary Pendant Chain and White Gold Pearl Chain,and see which one works best for you and your style.

How To Wear Your Chain

Chains of all styles are fantastic pieces to wear to make a statement on their own. But if you want to get the most out of your piece, then there are a few things to keep in mind.

Decide on the Width

One of the most important factors that can change how your chain looks on your body is its width. A giant, bulky chain will be more of a statement piece that is easily recognizable, while a smaller chain will be more subdued.

There’s no right or wrong way to go about it — it all comes down to personal preference. A thick chain (like the Cuban link) is meant to be worn if you want people to notice the chain first and foremost, but if you want your outfit to still take center stage, then you will want to go with a slimmer alternative.

Choose a Gold Color

The next step is to decide which type of gold you want your box chain to be made out of. This is another personal preference, but both white gold and yellow gold can have different effects on your outfit as a whole.

Yellow gold has more of a classic feel that harkens back to royalty and hip-hop icons of past generations. These are good to wear for more casual events. White gold, on the other hand, is more pristine and polished, giving it a more mature feeling that is perfect for corporate events, work outings, or a fancy dinner.

But the bottom line is that you can’t go wrong with either one. Again, it’s entirely up to personal preference. You can even layer two types on top of each other for a unique, trendsetting look that will have people turning their heads no matter where you go.

Diamonds or Gemstones?

You also want to decide whether or not you want to have your box chain studded with diamonds or another gemstone. Chains that are studded with diamonds tend to look more like statement pieces.

Additionally, the diamonds tend to take attention away from the chain itself. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but if you want people to notice the unique links of a box chain, you might want to keep it solid gold without any additional stones.

Pairing With a Pendant

A great way to add some personal flair to your pieces is by adding a pendant to them. Pendants can allow your piece to take as much sentimental value as you want while also giving tired chains a whole new look.

If you want to wear a pendant with your chain, you’ll need a slim chain that’s 5mm or less in thickness. And while you can get tons of pendants that are sure to suit your style, there’s no better way to exemplify your personality than by making one yourself.

6 Ice lets you customize pendants with a full range of options. Choose from word pendants, picture pendants, or even lockets, and craft a high-quality piece that is uniquely yours.

Browse our full collection of customization options and make a stunning pendant to pair perfectly with your new Cuffed Bead Chain, Cuban chain, and more.

In Conclusion

Box chains have a unique appearance that almost looks like interconnected boxes wrapped around one another. This makes them highly sturdy and versatile for everyday wear. However, box chains are far from the only style of chain out there.

You can have confidence in the quality of your piece as long as you know where to buy. 6 Ice is the finest purveyor of high-quality jewelry, giving you a lifetime guarantee with every piece you buy. So if your piece wears down due to normal wear and tear, we’ll work with you to make things right.

Browse our newest drops and start taking your style to new heights.

Sources:

Gold Properties | AMNH

Jewelry Metals 101: Gold, Silver, and Platinum

Rough Science . New Zealand . Gold Rush . Properties of Gold | PBS