About Bead and Chain Necklaces

Bead and chain necklaces combine the best of both worlds: a fun array of beads and the simplicity of the striking chain. Many of them feature the beads evenly interspersed along the chain, but by no means is that the only style available. A wide array of vintage bead and chain necklaces are available, as are some really fun styles that had their heyday late in the 20th century.

Types

Bead and chain necklaces range from the dainty silver or gold chains adorned with equally dainty beads to large, wooden beads on thick, metal chains that resemble those used for keychains. Some will feature the beads interspersed throughout the chain, with the chain links fully exposed and part of the adornment. Other bead and chain necklaces feature dangling beads, like a long stretch down the center that wear well with V-neck shirts; beads and chain pieces that dangle from the main chain like fringe; or scalloped pieces of beads and chain that create a whole design on the upper chest where it's worn.

Features

Beads can include thin, oblong shapes; fat, round pieces; thin, plate shapes and specialty shapes such as letters, animal outlines; or swirls and other designs. Beads can be made of wood, glass, ceramic, plastic, metal or a combination of materials. Colorful block beads are popular on keychain-type chains, often with the block beads sporting letters that can spell out a person's name or a catchy word or phrase.

Effects

Depending on the style chosen, bead and chain necklaces can run the gamut from fun-loving to exquisitely glamorous. Thicker chains with the wood blocks are good for kids, teens and other colorful and fun outfits, pulling together a cheery, young look. Those with glass beads and scalloped shapes along the breastbone can add a dashing effect to the fanciest evening gown or mink stole. Bead and chain necklaces constructed from a leather chain and shell or raw wood beads can give an organic, earthy effect.

Considerations

While the bead and chain necklace is interesting enough to make a statement on its own, some are even more elaborate with further embellishments. The bead and chain necklace is sometimes used as a base for a large, matching pendant or series of pendants that add an even more interesting touch to the piece. Other bead and chain necklaces serve as the framework around the back and sides of the neck, while the front will feature a series of smaller chains adorned with larger versions of the beads.

Time Frame

The 1970s and 1980s were high time for bead and chain necklaces of every type. The 1970s featured a lot of longer chains, sometimes made of natural fibers or macramé, interspersed with elongated, colorful wood beads. Metal chains were also used between the beads, with the necklace length reaching far past the waist so it could be doubled or tripled around the neck. Orange and brown were popular colors for 1970s styles; the 1980s featured a surge of neon and other bright plastic beads commonly used in necklaces. The chain, too, was often made of plastic links. Zany styles, such as beads in the shape of leaves, bunches of grapes and other fruits, were also popular.