With layering being such a popular look right now, getting necklace length right matters more than ever. Whether you're stacking for a layered look or just want a single piece that fits perfectly, knowing the right measurement is the first step.
But measuring necklace length can be tricky. How do you keep the necklace in place while measuring? What are the best instruments to use? Does the clasp count?
This article walks you through the steps and gives you all the information you need.
How to measure a necklace you already own
If the necklace is already in your jewelry box, measuring is straightforward. All you need is a flat surface and a ruler or short measuring tape.
Step 1: Straighten the necklace before measuring
Unclasp the necklace and lay it flat. A kinked or curled necklace will throw off your measurement, so straighten out any kinks or twists so it forms a smooth, straight line.
Step 2: Line up the clasp with zero
Line up the clasp with the zero mark on the ruler. And to answer the question from the intro, the clasp is always included in the measurement. Not measuring it will throw off your numbers by up to an inch.
Step 3: Measure straight to the opposite end
Measure straight to the opposite end, keeping the necklace taut, not stretched. Let it follow its natural line rather than curving it to fit the ruler. Any bend adds slack and makes the measurement shorter than it really is.
The number that lines up with the far end of the chain is the true length. That’s the figure you’ll use to compare against the length chart below. You may also want to jot that number down as a reference for layering necklace lengths.
How to measure a necklace you don’t own yet
Are you about to buy a necklace for yourself or a loved one and want to get the ideal measurement? Here’s a process that ensures the perfect length:
Step 1: Choose a string or flexible tape measure
Get a piece of string, dental floss, or a flexible fabric tape measure. String or floss are the best options because they won’t stretch like tape and better mimic the thin profile of a real chain than a bulky ruler can.
Step 2: Add a weight to mimic how a necklace hangs
Tie a small weight to one end. A key, a ring, or even the pendant itself works well. The weight will pull the necklace down, forming a drape that would occur with actual wear.
Step 3: Drape the string and adjust to your ideal length
Drape the weighted string around your neck in front of a mirror and adjust it until it falls to the ideal length. Take your time until it looks right.
Step 4: Measure the string against a ruler
Once you find the ideal measurement, pinch the string at the back of your neck where the two ends meet, holding it firmly so it doesn’t slip. Lay the pinched string flat against the ruler and measure from the end to the point you pinched. That’s the necklace length you should be shopping for.
Necklace length chart
Once you have that number, compare it to the chart, whether for an existing necklace or one you’re shopping for. Necklace lengths are fairly standard, though exact inch cutoffs can vary by brand, and the chart is a general guide to where each length sits and what it’s called.
|
Length |
cm |
Where it sits |
|
|
14" |
35–36 |
Snug at the base of the neck |
Choker |
|
16" |
40–41 |
At the base of the throat |
Choker / short princess |
|
18" |
45–46 |
At the collarbone (most popular) |
Princess |
|
20" |
50–51 |
Just below the collarbone |
Matinee |
|
22" |
55–56 |
Between the collarbone and bust |
Matinee |
|
24" |
60–61 |
At the top of the bust |
Matinee / opera |
|
30" |
76 |
Mid-chest |
Opera |
|
36" |
91 |
Below the bust, can be doubled |
Rope |
FAQs
Does necklace length include the clasp?
Yes, necklace length includes the clasp. Not including the clasp can make your necklace measure an inch or more shorter than it actually is.
How do you measure necklace length for a pendant?
To measure necklace length for a pendant, it’s best to use something that mimics the size or weight of the pendant, such as a ring, key, or the pendant itself. Hang it on a string, drape it around your neck, and experiment until you find the ideal length. Then measure the string to see which length to buy.
Where does each necklace length sit on the body?
Necklace lengths can sit at the base of the neck, fall below the bust, or anywhere in between. Our necklace length chart provides more information about each chain type and length, so you know what necklace to wear with what neckline.
How do I make a necklace longer or shorter without a jeweler?
You can purchase extenders and shorteners online. Extenders are short, additional chain lengths, usually 1-3”, while shorteners are little clip or slide mechanisms that let you bunch up extra chain and clasp it at a shorter point.
How do you measure necklace length as a gift?
If you're buying the necklace as a gift and don’t have it, use dental floss or string to mimic the chain, and tie on a small object for a bit of weight. Then hold it around your neck and adjust it until it reaches the ideal length. Measure it and look for a necklace that’s a similar length.
How do I measure a necklace that has no clasp?
If your necklace has no clasp, measure it like any other necklace. If it’s a closed loop, measure the total circumference. If it’s an open style that slips over the head, lay it flat in its closed shape and measure end to end.
If your necklace originally had a clasp, but it’s since broken or gone missing, measure it and add .5 to 1 inch to the total.
