Gold Ball Chain
21st Century and Contemporary American Pendant Necklaces
Diamond, Onyx, White Gold
20th Century Cufflinks
Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces
Tanzanite, Yellow Gold
Antique 1880s American High Victorian More Necklaces
Gold, 18k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Pendant Necklaces
Diamond, Pearl, Black Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century Chain Necklaces
Gold
Late 20th Century Italian Chain Necklaces
Gold, 9k Gold
Antique Early 1900s Edwardian Chain Necklaces
Gold, 9k Gold, Rose Gold
20th Century Chain Necklaces
14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Chain Necklaces
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Chain Necklaces
2010s Indian Chain Necklaces
Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Artisan Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Chain Bracelets
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Artisan Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Retro Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s American Chain Necklaces
Gold Plate
21st Century and Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Diamond, Yellow Gold
2010s American Modern Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s European Etruscan Revival Chain Necklaces
Pearl, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Blue Topaz, White Gold
2010s American Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Chain Necklaces
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century French Artisan Chain Necklaces
Gold
2010s American Chain Necklaces
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Contemporary Chain Bracelets
Agate, Gold Plate
Vintage 1970s American Modern Chain Necklaces
Crystal, Gold Plate
21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Amethyst, Quartz, Rock Crystal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Chain Necklaces
Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 1980s American Modern Chain Necklaces
Mixed Metal
20th Century Italian Chain Necklaces
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Chain Necklaces
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s Chain Necklaces
2010s Indian Contemporary Chain Necklaces
White Diamond, Black Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Enamel
2010s Rope Necklaces
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Indian Contemporary Chain Necklaces
White Diamond, Black Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Brass, Enamel
Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Chain Necklaces
Yellow Gold, Base Metal, Gilt Metal
2010s Turkish Modern Chain Necklaces
Pearl, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Pearl, Gold Plate
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Amethyst, Peridot, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Diamond, Ruby, 9k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Chain Bracelets
Sapphire, Turquoise, Zircon, 9k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage 1970s American Modernist Chain Necklaces
Tiger's Eye, Gold, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Pearl, Jade, Ruby, 9k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Pearl, Gold Plate
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Crystal, Gold Plate
Vintage 1980s Italian Chain Bracelets
Lapis Lazuli, Natural Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
2010s Indian Chain Necklaces
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Gold, 14k Gold
2010s American Modern Chain Necklaces
Diamond, White Gold
Antique Early 1900s Artisan Pendant Necklaces
14k Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Peridot, Yellow Gold
1950s American Belts
21st Century and Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
14k Gold, White Gold
2010s Rope Necklaces
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 20th Century Indonesian Contemporary Stud Earrings
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
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Gold Ball Chain For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Gold Ball Chain?
Why Gold Shines in Jewelry Craftsmanship
Gold is the feel-good metal, the serotonin of jewelry. Wear vintage and antique gold necklaces, watches, gold bracelets or gold rings and you feel happy, you feel dressed, you feel, well, yourself.
Gold, especially yellow gold, with its rich patina and ancient pedigree going back thousands of years, is the steady standby, the well-mannered metal of choice. Any discussion of this lustrous metal comes down to a basic truth: Gold is elementary, my dear. Gold jewelry that couples the mystique of the metal with superb design and craftsmanship achieves the status of an enduring classic. Many luxury houses have given us some of our most treasured and lasting examples of gold jewelry over the years.
Since its founding, in 1837, Tiffany & Co. has built its reputation on its company jewelry as well as its coterie of boutique designers, which has included Jean Schlumberger, Donald Claflin, Angela Cummings and Elsa Peretti. There are numerous gold Tiffany classics worth citing. Some are accented with gemstones, but all stand out for their design and the workmanship displayed.
For the woman who prefers a minimalist look, the Tiffany & Co. twist bangle (thin, slightly ovoid) is stylishly simple. For Cummings devotees, signature pieces feature hard stone inlay, such as her pairs of gold ear clips inlaid with black jade (a play on the classic Chanel black and tan), or bangles whose design recalls ocean waves, with undulating lines of lapis lazuli and mother-of-pearl. And just about any design by the great Jean Schlumberger is by definition a classic.
Even had he eschewed stones and diamonds, Southern-born David Webb would be hailed for the vast arsenal of heavy gold jewelry he designed. Gold, usually hammered or textured in some manner, defines great David Webb jewelry. The self-taught jeweler made very au courant pieces while drawing inspiration from ancient and out-of-the-way sources — East meets West in the commanding gold necklaces made by Webb in the early 1970s. The same could be said for his endlessly varied gold cuffs.
In Europe, many houses have given us gold jewelry that sets the highest standard for excellence, pieces that were highly sought after when they were made and continue to be so.
Numerous designs from Cartier are homages to gold. There are the classic Trinity rings, necklaces and bracelets — trifectas of yellow, white and rose gold. As a testament to the power of love, consider the endurance of the Cartier Love bracelet.
Aldo Cipullo, Cartier’s top in-house designer from the late 1960s into the early ’70s, made history in 1969 with the Love bracelet. Cipullo frequently said that the Love bracelet was born of a sleepless night contemplating a love affair gone wrong and his realization that “the only remnants he possessed of the romance were memories.” He distilled the urge to keep a loved one close into a slim 18-karat gold bangle.
BVLGARI and its coin jewelry, gemme nummarie, hit the jackpot when the line launched in the 1960s. The line has been perennially popular. BVLGARI coin jewelry features ancient Greek and Roman coins embedded in striking gold mounts, usually hung on thick link necklaces of varying lengths. In the 1970s, BVLGARI introduced the Tubogas line, most often made in yellow gold. The Tubogas watches are classics, and then there is the Serpenti, the house's outstanding snake-themed watches and bracelets.
A collection called Monete that incorporated the gold coins is one of several iconic BVLGARI lines that debuted in the 1970s and ’80s, catering to a new generation of empowered women. Just as designers like Halston and Yves Saint Laurent were popularizing fuss-free ready-to-wear fashion for women on the go, BVLGARI offered jewels to be lived in.
Since Van Cleef & Arpels opened its Place Vendôme doors in 1906, collection after collection of jewelry classics have enchanted the public. As predominantly expressed in a honeycomb of gold, there is the Ludo watch and accessories, circa the 1920s, and the golden Zip necklace, 1951, whose ingenious transformation of the traditional zipper was originally proposed by the Duchess of Windsor. Van Cleef's Alhambra, with its Moroccan motif, was introduced in 1968 and from the start its popularity pivoted on royalty and celebrity status. It remains one of VCA’s most popular and collected styles.
Mention must be made of Buccellati, whose name is synonymous with gold so finely spun that it suggests tapestry. The house’s many gold bracelets, typically embellished with a few or many diamonds, signified taste and distinction and are always in favor on the secondary market. Other important mid-20th-century houses known for their gold-themed jewelry include Hermès and Ilias Lalaounis.
Find a stunning collection of vintage and antique gold jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021A gold chain can often be worn to symbolize class and social status, as over time, gold personal ornamentation has long been a signifier of wealth and prosperity. Today, a gold necklace is a piece of jewelry that can complement any sort of attire, owing to its minimalist yet elegant look. Find a wide range of gold chains and other gold jewelry on 1stDibs today.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024To tell if your gold chain is real, hold a magnet close to it. Since gold is non-magnetic, any noticeable attraction will likely indicate that your piece is a gold-toned metal or features gold plating over a layer of magnetic base metal. You can also have an experienced jeweler or appraiser inspect your chain if you wish. Shop a variety of gold chains on 1stDibs.
- How much does a gold chain cost?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The cost of a gold chain is dependent on brand, condition, and type of gold. On 1stDibs, a gold chain costs anywhere between $185 and $430,000.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Some people like to DIY gold chain belts by acquiring a chain then making it into a belt with lobster claws and jump rings. The only tool you need is a pair of pliers to put it all together. These projects get their inspiration from iconic brands like Chanel who made chain belts extremely popular from the 1990s onward. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary gold chain belts from designers like Chanel, Gucci and Versace.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024To tell if a gold chain is real, first try placing it near a magnet. If you sense a strong attraction between the magnet and the chain, it is unlikely to be solid gold. Another way to test is to gently scratch an old ceramic plate with your chain. A black streak will usually indicate that the piece is made of a metal other than gold. Alternatively, you can have a jeweler or certified appraiser inspect your chain. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of gold chains from some of the world's top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021The best gold chain for a pendant is a matter of preference. While choosing a chain make sure that the chain is not too thick for the size of the pendant, and it is strong enough. Wheat chains and box chains are good choices due to their sturdiness and flexibility. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of gold chain and pendant options to choose from.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 20, 2024Real gold chains will typically display markings that represent the purity of the gold used to produce them. In some cases, pieces may list the karat weight with marks like 18K or 14K. On other pieces, you may see the metal purity represented by a three-digit hallmark shown on its own or inside a hexagon. The most common markings in this system are 585 for 14-karat and 750 for 18-karat. If you need assistance determining whether your chain is real gold, a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can assist you. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of gold chains.
- Why do guys wear gold chains?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Gold chains have been popular among men for centuries. In some cultures, it's a sign of wealth or status, and in others, it's just a fashion choice.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What style of gold chain is the strongest is largely a matter of personal opinion. Generally, chains formed of interlocking links are strong because they do not bend. Examples include Cuban, mariner, figaro, rope and cable chains. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of gold chains.
- Are thick gold chains in style?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes. Thick gold chains are in style, but whether they’re the right style for you depends on your personal preferences and the way you choose to dress. Thick gold chains look great with t-shirts, suits and sweaters, and you can layer them with other chunky or slim gold chains. Gold chains come in different link types, including Cuban, mariner and cable links and wheat and Figaro chains. Shop a selection of vintage and modern gold chains from top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is a real gold chain worth it?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024Yes, many jewelry lovers believe a real gold chain is worth it. Whether white, rose or yellow, gold lends beauty to jewelry. Alloys like 14-karat and 18-karat gold resist scratches, tarnishing and wear and tear to help chains stand the test of time. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in gold chains is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find gold chains and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Are gold chains worth the money?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024Many jewelry lovers believe that gold chains are worth the money. Whether it's white, yellow or rose in hue, gold has a visually appealing color that resists tarnishing when cared for and stored properly. Gold alloys, such as 14-karat and 18-karat gold, are also resistant to scratching, making these materials a good choice for chains you intend to wear frequently. Plus, the popularity of gold means you can find a wealth of styles and lengths to suit your preferences and coordinate with pendants in your collection. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in gold chains is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find gold chains and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Is a 14K gold chain real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, a 14 karat gold chain is real gold and made of 14 parts gold and ten parts other metals. A 14 karat gold is usually mixed with copper, zinc, silver, palladium and nickel to increase durability. Browse a range of 14 karat gold jewelry, including chains, on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021A typical gold chain usually costs around $1,000. However, the price can fluctuate depending on charms, length and designer.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Real gold chains are supposed to be heavy. Pure gold is heavy due to its high density. If you are unsure about the gold content in your piece, you can take it to be appraised. You can also shop a collection of expertly vetted gold jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023What a good size of gold chain is for a man varies. The average length of men's chains is around 20 inches. However, men may choose to wear longer chains, such as if they intend to sport a pendant. Layering short and long chain necklaces is also a popular fashion choice. Shop a selection of chain necklaces on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The value of a 14k gold chain is dependent on its weight, craftsmanship, brand name, condition and the market value of gold. The gold price per gram fluctuates but it was approximately $61 in early 2021. On 1stDibs, you can purchase a 14k gold chain at a variety of price points.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024How much your 14-karat gold chain is worth depends on a variety of factors. In terms of value as scrap metal alone, the length and thickness of the chain will affect how much gold it contains, contributing to its value. Some chains may be worth more due to their maker, style, type, condition and other factors. A certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can give you an idea of how much a particular chain may be worth. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of 14-karat gold chains.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024How much your 18K gold chain is worth depends on several factors. As a material, 18-karat gold typically fetches a higher price than 14-karat and 10-karat gold on the scrap market because it contains more pure gold. When selling a piece for scrap, the length, thickness and weight of your chain will determine how much you can expect to receive for it. It's also possible that your chain may be worth more than the going scrap rate due to its style, maker, age and other characteristics. Consequently, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable jeweler evaluate your jewelry before you sell it. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of gold chains.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024To tell if a 14K gold chain is real, hold a magnet up to it. Real gold isn't magnetic, so if the magnet sticks, the necklace is unlikely to be real 14-karat gold. When in doubt, have a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler evaluate your jewelry. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of gold chains.
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