What Is A Wheat Chain? The Ultimate Guide

Looking for a chain that resembles a rope chain but isn’t as common? The wheat chain is the perfect option for you then. In this blog post we go over what is a wheat chain, where did it originate from, how to untangle a wheat chain and whether they are strong or not.

What Is A Wheat Chain?

The wheat chain from afar resembles that of a standard rope chain, but as you view it from a closer distance you realise it’s a much more complex chain. The wheat chain consists of four strands of twisted oval links, with links being braided together. Each link is a teardrop shape and is woven together in the same direction. The overall look of this chain link necklace resembles that of a wheat stalk, hence the name of the chain. Other names for this chain include “espiga chain”, the reason for this will be explained in the next section!

 

3mm Gold Wheat Chain By Sky Austria

Where Did The Wheat Chain Design Originate From? 

The first appearance of the wheat chain necklace was in Italy, with the chain going by the name ‘espiga chain’. The chain originated from jewellery production centres in both Italy and Spain, hence why the name ‘espiga’ is used both in Italy and Spain. The direct translation of the espiga chain is ‘ear’, which refers to an ear of wheat. In Spain, the chain has the exact same meaning.

However, within the English-speaking world, the chain is more commonly known as the wheat chain.

How To Untangle A Wheat Chain? 

It’s fairly uncommon to see a wheat chain tangled, which is why there isn't much information on the web about what to do if it happens. If your wheat chain gets tangled try these things. 

• Hold each end of the kink and push the ends together then in the opposite direction, repeat this movement until the wheat chain untangles/unkinks.
• Try to hold the wheat chain on one end and let it hang, then shake it continuously until the wheat chain untangles. 

It’s best to prevent the wheat chain necklace from tangling in the first place rather then solve it. To ensure that the chain doesn't tangle in the first place store it in a ziploc or drawstring bag, with the clasp on the outside. 

Are Wheat Chains Strong?

The woven structure and appearance of a wheat chain make them less likely to tangle. Each teardrop link in the chain is interlinked, forming a series of hinges that go in one direction. In addition to this, the wheat chain necklace consists of four strands, making it even stronger than a wheat chain which only consists of two. This makes the wheat chain a low risk chain for breakages due to tugs and pulls.

For more information about the other types of necklaces, check out our blog about chain necklace types

Is The Wheat Chain And Rope Chain The Same?

From afar the wheat chain and rope chain may look similar, however when you get a closer look you'll notice their differences. The rope chain has a more twisted and rope like appearance, with links never interlinking with each other. Whilst the wheat chain has a more woven appearance, and four links interlinking with each other at a time. 

Want to learn more about these two popular styles of chains? Check out our blog which compares the wheat chain and rope chain together.