Start with Our Diamond Quiz
Expertise you can trust: Brilliant Earth is known for its award-winning jewelry designs and seamless, innovative shopping experience. This Brilliant Earth jewelry guide compares the similarities and differences between necklaces and pendants. All Brilliant Earth guides are meticulously researched and reviewed by our certified gemologists, content, editorial, and brand teams before publication to ensure industry-leading excellence and accuracy.
What Is a Necklace?
A necklace is a piece of jewelry worn around the neck. It typically consists of a chain or cord made from various materials such as precious metals (gold, silver, platinum), leather, silk, or beads.
Popular necklace types include chain necklaces that feature simple metal links without embellishments, tennis necklaces that showcase a continuous line of identical gemstones, and pearl necklaces that offer classic strings of pearls.
Key Characteristics of Necklaces
Necklaces come in diverse styles and can be worn for virtually any occasion. Here are their defining features:
- Complete Piece: A necklace is a complete jewelry item that doesn't necessarily need additional components.
- Various Lengths: From chokers (14-16 inches) to opera length (30-36 inches).
- Design Variations: Can be simple chains, beaded strands, or intricate patterns throughout the entire piece.
The versatility of necklaces makes them a staple in most jewelry collections, suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
What Is a Pendant?
A pendant is a loose piece or ornament that hangs from another item, typically a necklace chain. The term comes from the Latin word "pendere," meaning "to hang down."
Among the most popular pendant styles are hinged lockets that hold photos or mementos, gemstone pendants that showcase a single prominent stone, and meaningful religious or spiritual charms.
Key Characteristics of Pendants
Pendants serve as eye-catching focal points and often carry special meaning for the wearer. Their key features include:
- Hanging Component: Always attached to something else, usually a chain.
- Focal Point: Serves as the centerpiece or highlight of the jewelry piece.
- Variety of Forms: Can be gemstones, charms, lockets, symbols, or artistic designs.
- Requires a Chain/Cord: Cannot be worn alone without something to suspend it.
Many people choose pendants to express personal style, commemorate special occasions, or showcase meaningful symbols.
Necklace vs. Pendant: Which Is Better?
Neither is inherently better—the choice between a simple necklace and a pendant design depends on your personal preferences and occasion. Both styles have distinct advantages that shine in different contexts. Here's how to determine which style will serve you best for different situations and looks.
When to Choose a Simple Necklace
Simple necklaces offer versatility and subtle elegance for many occasions. Consider these options:
- For a minimalist, understated look
- For layering multiple pieces
- For complementing busy outfits or statement earrings
- For everyday wear that goes with everything
A well-chosen simple necklace can become a signature piece in your daily wardrobe rotation.
When to Choose a Pendant Necklace
A pendant necklace combines both elements — it consists of a chain (the necklace part) with a hanging ornament (the pendant). This is actually one of the most common types of jewelry worn today. Consider these options:
- For creating a focal point in your jewelry
- For showcasing something with personal meaning (like a locket or symbol)
- For drawing attention to your neckline
- For special occasions or statement pieces
The right pendant can become a conversation starter or treasured keepsake with significant emotional value.
