Gold chains have been a symbol of wealth and status for thousands of years. They first appeared on the necks of Egyptian pharaohs and were often adorned with pendants.
In the 1930s, Coco Chanel started a new trend when she draped herself in long gold chains. Today, gold chains are back in vogue.
History
Since ancient times, gold chains have been a highly coveted piece of jewelry. The chains were initially worn as a mark of social status. Kings and clergy members wore thick, gold chains embellished with logos and badges. In the late Gothic and Renaissance eras, jewelry designers like Leonardo Da Vinci improved upon chain designs by making them more elaborate.
Gold chains became more popular during the 1980s with the rise of rap and hip-hop culture. The iconic group Run DMC popularized the look, and many other artists followed suit. You can still see rappers today rocking a classic gold chain.
The chains can be used to hold pendants or other pieces of jewelry. In addition, they can be worn with shirts or jackets to add a pop of color and style to an outfit.
Symbolism
Gold chains have been worn for thousands of years to symbolize wealth and success. They were commonly worn by kings, pharaohs, and other high-ranking individuals to display their wealth and power. Seeing a gold chain in a dream may symbolize your desire to say your success or your need for status. In dreams, gold chains can also represent a person’s desire for security or stability.
In modern culture, men’s gold chains are seen as a mark of affluence and sophistication. Run DMC popularized them in the 80s and has since become a staple of hip-hop style. From Kanye West to Jay Z, finding a rap star that doesn’t rock a gold chain is challenging.
Gold chains are typically made from refined gold that is melted and drawn into long wires. They are then linked together and soldered to form the chain. Adding charms or pendants to the chain can further enhance its look and symbolism.
Types
There are many different gold chains, each with its style and significance. A rope chain, for example, is shaped like a rope and is often worn with pendants. Another popular type is a herringbone chain, which features intricately woven links. A box chain, meanwhile, is made up of tiny box-shaped links.
Gold chains have a long history of being associated with wealth and prestige, especially in Western cultures. They have also been used as a symbol of strength and eternal love. They are still a popular fashion accessory and symbol of personal style and power.
In the 20th century, gold chains became a staple of counterculture. Hippies wore long, non-precious metal chains adorned with politically or spiritually meaningful pendants. Male rappers took the look to the next level by wearing oversized chains, and this trend has since continued into the present day.
Styles
Throughout the centuries, gold chains have evolved in both style and significance. They’ve represented positive sentiments like eternal love and connection and evoked negative imagery like prisons and chain gangs.
Early relics date back to 2500 BC; by the 18th century, chains had become a common jewelry adornment amongst wealthy families of Venice. One such chain, the Manin, required deft fingers to craft.
The 90s solidified the gold chain as a staple of hip-hop culture, with many artists wearing elaborately designed chains, including crosses and branded pendants. These chains served as a visual marker of the artist’s wealth and influence.
While a gold chain still holds great significance for those who wear it, it’s now becoming a trend embraced by many generations. From long, layered chains draped Chanel-style to chunky curb-link bracelets, there’s something for everyone. Check out some of our favorite gold chains below!