Chain Types Explained: Anchor, Curb, Figaro & Snake Compared

Chain types explained: anchor, curb, Figaro & snake compared. In short: The four main chain types have distinct characters: the anchor chain is the classic all-rounder (good for pendants), the curb chain is the flat, durable everyday favorite, the Figaro chain adds rhythm with alternating link lengths, and the snake chain flows as a smooth, elegant line. If you are only buying one chain, go for anchor or curb. If you want character, choose Figaro or snake.

As of September 2026. By Phil, Corelune Jewellery, Düsseldorf.

The 4 chain types at a glance

Which chain for which purpose?

• For a pendant: anchor chain. The oval links allow the pendant bail to glide smoothly, keeping the pendant centered.
• For everyday wear without thinking: curb chain. The flat design lies comfortably, barely twists, and withstands everyday wear the best.
• For solo appearances: Figaro. The link rhythm makes it an eye-catcher even without a pendant; in a bold version, it becomes a Chunky Chain.
• For the evening: snake chain. The dense play of light looks like liquid metal on the skin. It is more prone to kinks: store hanging up, do not coil.

The layering toolkit

The chain types are also the ingredients for layering: bold curb chains as a base, fine anchor chains with a pendant on top, a snake chain for a shine accent. Different types in one metal color. That is the strength contrast that makes layering bold. You can find all four characters in the Corelune Collection, waterproof and tarnish-free.

View Corelune necklaces

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From the range, this fits: Long Heart Necklace in Silver Stainless Steel and Starfish Pendant Chain in Stainless Steel. You can find more necklaces in the category Stainless Steel Necklaces.

What should you look for when buying a chain?

The length determines the effect, not the pendant. At 45 cm, the chain usually ends at the collarbone and suits almost any neckline. Shorter requires a bare neck, longer needs a calm area underneath.

The second point is the clasp. Lobster clasps hold reliably but are difficult to close with one hand. Spring rings open more easily but wear out faster. If you put the chain on and take it off daily, you will notice this difference after a few weeks.

Let's be clear: stainless steel withstands color and water but has no resale value. Silver needs care. Gold-plated brass looks the warmest at first and wears out first at contact points.

Chain links differ in their load-bearing capacity. Fine anchor chains look delicate but catch more easily and are more likely to break at a weak point. Curb and link chains distribute the tension better and are the more robust choice for everyday wear.

More on this here: German Jewelry Brands 2027 Compared: What Each Price Range Delivers.

What usually goes wrong when buying chains?

Most bad purchases are not caused by poor quality, but by wrong expectations of the piece. Often, something too flashy is bought, one rarely asks about their own wearing routine, and too often orders based on suspicion. If you clarify these three points beforehand, you save yourself the exchange and actually wear the piece.

When should you take your chains off?

Stainless steel handles water without problems, yet there are situations where taking it off is the smarter decision. Creams, perfume, and hairspray should be applied before putting on the piece, not after. The rule of thumb is: water yes, pulling no.

What price is realistic for chains?

Two pieces at the same price can differ in lifespan by years. Up to thirty euros covers everyday needs; above that, you are paying for details like stone settings or elaborate clasps. The 14-day return policy takes some of the risk out of the decision anyway.

What is part of the routine for chains?

Chain care consists of two steps; everything else is superfluous. A soft toothbrush reaches the places where deposits actually settle. The effort is just a few minutes a month and is therefore less than with any precious metal.

What is frequently asked about this

Which chain type is best for pendants?

The anchor chain: your uniform oval links allow pendant bails to glide smoothly, and the pendant stays centered.

What is the difference between a curb and anchor chain?

The anchor chain consists of uniform oval single links, while the curb chain consists of flat interlocking, slightly twisted links. It therefore lies flatter and looks more distinctive.

Which chain is the most durable for everyday wear?

The curb chain: flat design, barely twists, very durable. In waterproof stainless steel, it is the most carefree everyday chain of all.

How do I get dirt out of the chain links?

A drop of dish soap in warm water, run the links through with a soft toothbrush, rinse clearly, pat dry.

My chain keeps twisting, why is that?

Usually, it is due to the weight of the pendant or the clasp sliding forward. Both disappear with a slightly stronger chain link.

About the author

Phil runs Corelune Jewellery in Düsseldorf and has been working daily with stainless steel jewelry since 2024: sample testing, complaints, everyday wear tests. The information in this article comes from the in-house range and from what customers report back. Where Corelune does not offer something, that is also stated here.

Material, dimensions, and prices at a glance

Showering, swimming, and sports do not affect stainless steel; it does not tarnish. If you are looking for a chain afterwards, these values from the Corelune range will help.

Which categories fit this topic?

Chains that apply:

• Link chains and link bracelets
• Pendant chains and long chains

Price-wise: 20% discount from two pieces, tiered up to 35% with five. From 59 euros, we ship free. Two chains of different lengths are anyway the most common combination.

View link chains and link bracelets at Corelune

At Corelune: Free shipping from €59, 14-day return, shipping from the Netherlands.

→ View link chains and link bracelets at Corelune