What Is A Herringbone Chain? The Ultimate Guide

What Is A Herringbone Chain?

Herringbone chains trace back to Ancient Egyptian times, with the chain getting its name from its resemblance to the slanted bones of a herring fish.

The herringbone chain is made up of thin, flat metal segments that join together to form a continuous chain. Each segment of the chain is bent in the middle forming a V-like shape or herringbone pattern.

This chain link lies flat against the skin when wearing and perfectly contours the wearer's neck.

3mm Gold Herringbone Chain by Sky Austria

How Are Herringbone Chains Made?

Herringbone chains are made via interlocking metal links that come together in a zigzag pattern. The herringbone chain can come in different materials, including gold, silver, stainless steel or brass. The chain also comes in various lengths, with the most popular ranging from 18-24 inches.

At Sky Austria, we offer adjustable herringbone chains so you don't have to worry about finding the right size for yourself!

Are Herringbone Chains Strong/Durable?

Because of their flat links, the chain is quite delicate and a forceful pull on the chain can cause links to dislodge, ruining the chain pattern. Therefore the herringbone chain is considered one of the more delicate styles of the chain.

The chain is so delicate that we recommend that you don’t sleep with it on, as if you move around in your sleep the chain will most likely bend and kink.

We also recommend that you store the herringbone flat or hang it up when you’re not wearing it so that it doesn’t tangle. Additionally, when you decide to put it on, hold onto the clasps and not on the actual necklace to avoid pushing links together too forcefully.

Our final recommendation is to avoid using the herringbone chain to hold a pendant, especially with heavier pendants the downward pull of a pendant can cause the whole chain to kink.

How Do You Untangle A Herringbone Chain?

Unlike other chain types, there isn’t a way to undo kinks in the herringbone chain once they occur. If you do manage to get the kinks out and flatten the necklace the area where the kink was it wont to be as strong as it used to be. This means your chain is more likely to kink in other areas once it's kinked.

Are Herringbone Chains In Style In 2022?

The short answer to this question is yes, this type of chain style has been around for ages not and is a very timeless chain style.

The chain itself is an attention-grabbing piece due to its distinctive flat shape and shiny appearance. You can also wear it as a statement piece or have it stacked with other chains (we don't recommend this)

The chain also gives off an expensive look, and female celebrities such as Hailey Bieber have been seen wearing this necklace style.

A truly minimalistic piece that is timeless and will remain timeless throughout the years.