Finding the Right Necklace Length
The length of a necklace influences how it sits, how it frames the neckline and how the overall piece is experienced.
From close-fitting collars to longer silhouettes, each length creates a different proportion. This guide will help you understand the possibilities, choose the right length and measure for the fit you prefer.
Size Chart
Necklace Length Chart
| Length (cm) | Length (in) | Name | Where it sits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35 – 36 | 14 | Choker | Close around the middle of the neck |
| 40 – 41 | 16 | Collar | At the base of the neck |
| 45 – 46 | 18 | Princess | Just on or below the collarbone |
| 50 – 51 | 20 | Matinee (short) | A few centimetres below the collarbone |
| 55 – 56 | 22 | Matinee | Above the bust |
| 60 – 61 | 24 | Long | At or just below the bust |
| 75 – 80 | 30 – 32 | Opera | Below the bust, towards the waist |
| 90 and above | 36 and above | Rope | At the waist, or wrapped twice |
These are typical positions. Where a necklace falls on you depends on the size of your neck and your frame.
01
Which Necklace Length Is Right for You?
There is no single length that defines the perfect necklace. The right choice depends on the design, your preferred placement and the way you intend to wear it.
Consider the way you wear it
A necklace that sits close to the neckline creates a more defined, refined silhouette, while longer lengths allow greater movement and presence.
Your height, proportions and neckline can also influence where a necklace naturally falls. When choosing a length, consider how you want the piece to sit rather than relying solely on the measurement.
With or without a pendant?
A pendant changes the overall drop of a necklace.
When selecting a pendant style, consider both the chain length and the pendant’s dimensions to understand where the complete piece will rest.
Layering
Layering works best when each necklace has enough space to be distinguished from the next.
Consider graduating the lengths to create separation between delicate chains, pendants and statement pieces.
Consider the neckline
The neckline of your clothing can influence the way a necklace is positioned.
Shorter lengths can sit naturally with open and scoop necklines, while mid and longer lengths can complement higher necklines and more structured silhouettes.
For special occasions, consider how the necklace will sit against the neckline of the garment rather than choosing the length in isolation.
Understanding Necklace Lengths
Collar & Choker — 30.5–40 cm
Designed to sit close to the neck, these lengths create a defined and elegant silhouette. A choker should sit comfortably without feeling restrictive, with enough room for natural movement.
Short / Princess — 40–47 cm
A classic length that generally rests around the collarbone. Versatile and refined, it works beautifully worn alone or paired with a delicate pendant.
Medium / Matinee — 47–60 cm
Falling lower across the chest, the matinee length offers greater presence while remaining versatile. It is particularly suited to pendant styles and can be worn independently or layered with shorter chains.
Long / Opera — 60–75 cm
A more elongated silhouette that allows statement pendants and distinctive designs to take centre stage. Longer lengths can also be styled with shorter necklaces for a considered layered look.
Very Long / Rope — 85–100 cm
The longest of the classic necklace lengths, rope styles offer versatility in how they are worn. They can be worn long, doubled or styled into a more distinctive layered silhouette, depending on the design.
03
How to Measure Necklace Length
Method 01 — Measure a Necklace You Already Own
Step 01
Lay the necklace completely open and flat on a surface.
Step 02
Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure from one end of the necklace to the other, including the clasp.
This gives you the approximate necklace length. Compare this measurement with the length listed on the House of Amora product page.
Method 02 — Measure the Length on Your Neck
Step 01
Stand in front of a mirror and place a soft measuring tape, ribbon or piece of string around your neck. Position it at the point where you would like your necklace to sit.
Step 02
Mark where the two ends meet and measure the length of the tape, ribbon or string against a ruler.
If you are choosing a pendant necklace, remember to consider the additional drop of the pendant when deciding where you want the complete piece to fall.
Need Assistance?
Let Our Specialists Guide You
Choosing the right size should feel as considered as choosing the jewel itself.
Whether you are between sizes, purchasing a ring as a gift or simply looking for a second opinion, our jewellery specialists are available to personally guide you through the measurements and fit of your chosen piece.