When you’re buying a chain necklace, there are several factors to consider. Length and style are the obvious two, but the thickness of the chain is equally important to enhance your appearance. So, how thick should a chain necklace be?
In this post, we will provide a chain width guide to help you make an informed decision on the best chain thickness for you. Additionally, we’ll discuss how to choose the right pendant size to complement your chain’s look.
Let’s dive in!

How Thick Should a Chain Necklace Be?
Preferences for thick chain necklaces vary greatly. Talking about them from just a personal viewpoint can be misleading. What’s considered normal can be oversized for others. Therefore, we will strive to maintain an objective perspective on chain necklace thickness.
The market offers various chain widths for men. Although length often gets more attention, width is equally vital for a chain’s appeal. Unlike length measured in inches and centimeters, necklace links are measured side-to-side in millimeters (mm).
Join us as we explore the average thickness of men’s chain necklaces and guide you in finding one that matches your style.
What Is a Good Thickness for a Chain?
There is no definitive good or bad proportion. The width of your chain necklace depends on your personal style and preference rather than a universal standard.
Visualizing the width of a necklace might be challenging from words alone. Throughout this post, we will use style and wardrobe examples to give you a clearer idea of the chain thickness. We will also include images of some of our best-selling chains.
Most Common Chain Thickness
What is a preferable thickness for a chain? Some believe 1-2 mm chains are the most common while others suggest 4-5 mm chains are the average for men.
So, what is the average thickness of a men’s chain necklace? To clarify any potential confusion, we present a size scale to serve as a general guide for men’s chain necklaces:
1-2 mm Chain Necklaces
1-2 mm chain necklaces are standard small chains suitable for both casual and formal outfits. In formal settings, chains are often worn underneath clothes, but this is not a strict rule.
As seen in the picture above, 1-2 mm chains are not necessarily hidden. Thanks to its longer length, the Best Wishes Necklace offers a more casual yet stylish look.

3-6 mm Chain Necklaces
3-6 mm chain necklaces are also available, though they tend to be pricier. As the width increases, so does the material needed, resulting in higher costs. A thick gold chain will always cost more than a thinner one of the same length.
Chains like our Altas Necklace are considered medium-thickness and are versatile for various looks. They are typically worn with a cross, pendant, or locket.

6-20 mm Chain Necklaces
6-20 mm chains are the largest and most voluminous, often chosen by individuals with larger physiques and usually worn alone without pendants. However, this is highly subjective.
The Gopa Chain, for instance, does not necessarily require a large physique. Thick chains like these are worn above the shirt as statement pieces.

How Thick Should a Chain Be for a Pendant?
Given varying style preferences, there is no simple answer to this question. We recommend matching the chain width with the size of the pendant.
Lightweight pendants work well with necklaces having a gauge between 0.9 mm – 1 mm. However, the most popular pendants usually range between 0.9 mm – 1.7 mm, requiring a larger and heavier pendant.
Nevertheless, this is a matter of preference. As shown in the image above, our Chunky Unna Necklace accommodates a large smoky quartz pendant.
While this may not appeal to everyone, it is an excellent choice for those looking to add a tribal element to their wardrobe or who favor cyberpunk fashion.
What Type of Chain Is Ideal for a Pendant?
Choosing a chain that both suits your style and accommodates a desired pendant can be challenging, especially if selecting for someone else.
Regardless of your situation, here are some tips for selecting a chain necklace for a pendant:
- Snake, belcher, trace, and curb chains are great choices for pendants, as they fit many pendant styles.
- Contemporary pendant designs pair well with curb and snake necklaces due to their clean silhouette.
- Trace and belcher chains are better for traditional pendant styles because of their visible links.

Final Thoughts
How thick should a chain necklace be? The answer largely depends on your preference. From our discussion, it’s clear that the chain’s diameter should complement your physique and style.
The market offers a wide range of chains from 1 mm to 20 mm in width. The thickness and type of necklace you choose are personal to you.
Certain general rules are helpful to remember. For example, a thick gold chain is a statement piece worn over your outfit, whereas a smaller chain often goes under your clothing in a casual setting.