How to Measure Necklace Lengths & Sizes

measuring necklace
February 7, 2025 Yagmur Telaferli

Wearing a luxury necklace is a great opportunity to showcase your one-of-a-kind style. However, with so many sparkly options and different necklace lengths to choose from, you might find yourself feeling a bit indecisive about what to choose. Understanding how to measure necklace lengths will help you greatly in selecting the perfect piece for yourself or a loved one. Read our guide to learn how to find your necklace size and discover ways to style necklaces of different lengths.

How to Find Your Necklace Size

If you’ve ever wondered how to measure your necklace size in the comfort of your home, it’s actually quite simple. First, take your favorite necklace that falls exactly where you want it to. Then, unclasp the necklace and lay it flat, end to end, on an even surface like a table. Use a measurement tool and carefully measure your piece. If your necklace features a pendant or charm, be sure to measure only the chain—since this part determines the necklace length.

No need to worry if you don’t have a favorite necklace yet, we’re here to help. Find yourself a long piece of string or ribbon (whatever you have on hand is fine). Wrap it around your neck like a necklace and adjust it until it sits at the desired length. Mark where the ends meet, then remove it from your neck. Once again, measure the piece on a flat surface to determine the correct length.

The Different Necklace Lengths

The standard necklace length for women usually ranges from 14 to 20 inches. To help you better visualize the difference between the two ends of the scale: a 14-inch necklace hugs the neck snugly while a 20-inch piece falls near the center of the chest. The most common necklace lengths are typically between 18 and 20 inches, which usually rest just below the collarbone.

Now that you know how to measure necklace lengths and what some typical necklace lengths are, we can have some fun and talk about the art of styling necklaces! We’ll go through standard necklace lengths one by one so that you can decide which one is more suitable for your daily style. Plus, we’ll help you find which length is perfect for each occasion.

Keep it Trendy with 14-Inch Necklaces

A 14-inch necklace is also known as a choker. 14-inch necklaces sit high on the neck tightly and offer a modern and trendy look. Suitable for everyday wear, choker necklaces are perfect for elevating casual outfits with some sparkle.

14-inch necklaces are very versatile. You can wear a simple choker chain necklace for your coffee run any day. Adding a pendant or a charm to these necklaces, on the other hand, can create a more classic feel for intimate gatherings, like family dinners. To let your creativity shine, we recommend layering 14-inch necklaces with longer pieces and creating unique sets.

Versatile and Elegant: 16-Inch Necklaces

Among the most popular lengths, 16-inch necklaces are often called choker necklaces, as well. Resting at the base of the neck, these necklaces work perfectly with a variety of designs from moissanite solitaire pendants to fashion necklaces adorned with various charms. They also layer well with other necklace lengths for a stacked look.

16-inch necklaces are the go-to choice for complementing formal attire for a work day at the office. You can wear these necklaces with a stylish shirt or a dress with a higher neckline to create a sophisticated look. Plus, 16-inch necklaces work wonders if you wish to highlight your collarbones with your jewelry choice

gold chain and necklace

18-Inch Necklaces For Every Occasion

Having learned how to measure necklace lengths and what your favorite size is, we are almost certain you will reach for an 18-inch necklace you already have in your collection. We all have these pieces in our jewelry boxes because they go together with almost every outfit. Often called the most common necklace length, 18-inch necklaces fall just under the collarbone for that perfect placement.

Also known as princess necklaces, 18-inch necklaces are timeless pieces you’ll never want to take off. Perfectly showcasing various pendants, charms and precious stones, these necklaces are ideal for daily wear and special occasions alike. Opt for a personalized name necklace to carry every day or a radiant moissanite tennis necklace to wear at a fancy event, like a friend’s wedding.

Make a Statement with 20-Inch Necklaces

20-inch necklaces sit gracefully between the collarbone and the chest. They complement clothes with high necks, like cozy sweaters, as well as chic, low-cut dresses with plunging necklines. 20-inch necklaces are often opted for stacked looks with various other necklace lengths.

20-inch necklaces are suitable for a variety of occasions and styles. For example: choose chains for your casual outfits, pearls for a romantic night out or pendant necklaces for a job interview, and enrich your collection. Depending on the pendant or charm you choose, 20-inch necklaces can be bold statement pieces that make your outfit stand out or delicate additions that make for an elegant touch. 

Now that you know how to measure different necklace lengths, how to find your ideal necklace size, which types of occasions each necklace is best suited for, and how to style them, you’re ready to find your everyday favorite and experiment with special occasion styles!