At Philippe Harold, located in the heart of Antwerp’s renowned Diamond District, we have been crafting exquisite jewellery since 1937. Our legacy is built on creating timeless pieces, each one infused with the expertise and passion that comes from generations of jewellery-making. When it comes to necklaces, understanding the various styles can help you choose the perfect piece, whether for yourself or as a meaningful gift.
Here, I’d like to guide you through 15 popular necklace styles, highlighting how each brings its own unique charm. From elegant simplicity to bold statement pieces, the right necklace can enhance any outfit or occasion.
1) Chain Necklace: A Timeless Essential
The chain necklace is a fundamental piece that exudes understated elegance. At Philippe Harold, we offer a range of chain styles—from delicate gold chains to more intricate designs with interlocked links. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn daily or layered for a more striking look.
2) Choker: A Bold Statement Close to the Heart
A choker necklace sits snugly around the neck, offering a bold yet graceful look. Whether adorned with diamonds or crafted from gold, a choker can make a dramatic statement. Pairing a choker with a longer piece can create a sophisticated, layered aesthetic.
3) Collar Necklace: Perfectly Positioned Elegance
Sitting just above the collarbone, the collar necklace is a chic and modern option for those seeking a minimalist touch. Its snug fit makes it a comfortable choice, and our Antwerp jewellery designs often incorporate gemstones or delicate metalwork, ideal for both casual and formal settings.
4) Festoon Necklace: A Regal and Elegant Design
The festoon necklace is a luxurious style that drapes beautifully across the collarbone, often featuring cascading rows of gemstones or diamonds. This design, inspired by ancient Grecian garlands, is ideal for those looking to make an elegant statement.
5) Graduated Necklace: An Artistic Play of Proportions
A graduated necklace uses beads or gemstones that increase in size toward the center, creating a beautiful, eye-catching focal point. Often crafted with pearls, this style offers a perfect balance of simplicity and grandeur, making it a timeless addition to any jewellery collection.
6) Lariat Necklace: Versatile and Graceful
The lariat necklace is known for its exceptional length and versatility. Its rope-like structure allows it to be styled in multiple ways—draped long or wrapped around the neck for a shorter look. The absence of a clasp makes it both elegant and effortless to wear.
7) Lavalier Necklace: Subtle and Artistic Charm
A lavalier necklace features a delicate pendant suspended from a fine chain, usually resting just below the collarbone. This style is perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance. Our Antwerp artisans often create lavaliers with beautiful diamond or gemstone pendants.
8) Locket Necklace: Timeless Sentimentality
A locket necklace offers not only beauty but also a place for cherished memories. Whether it’s a personal photo or a meaningful token, lockets are designed to keep sentimental moments close to your heart.
9) Matinee Necklace: Confidence in Length
The matinee necklace is ideal for those bold enough to wear a statement piece that sits just above the bust. It’s a great option for pairing with plunging necklines or layering with shorter necklaces. Our gold matinee necklaces often feature intricate detailing, adding an extra touch of elegance.
10) Opera Necklace: Sophistication for Special Occasions
The opera necklace is synonymous with sophistication. Its longer length, often adorned with diamonds or gemstones, makes it the perfect accessory for formal events.
11) Pendant Necklace: A Personal Touch
A pendant necklace is a simple yet powerful way to showcase a personal symbol, whether it’s a gemstone, initial, or religious emblem. A diamond pendant from our Antwerp store can be the perfect gift, adding a unique, personal touch to any collection.
12) Princess Necklace: Classic and Adaptable
The princess necklace, which sits just below the collarbone, is one of the most versatile styles. Its adaptable length makes it suitable for both casual and formal wear. Whether crafted in gold or adorned with diamonds, this style is a timeless choice for any jewellery box.
13) Riviere Necklace: A Flow of Diamonds and Gemstones
The riviere necklace features a seamless line of gemstones, often diamonds, that decrease in size toward the clasp. This luxurious style is one of the finest examples of craftsmanship, perfect for those who appreciate the elegance of a continuous flow of brilliance.
14) Sautoir Necklace: Long, Luxurious, and Versatile
The sautoir necklace is known for its length, often featuring a pendant or tassel at its end. Its versatility allows it to be worn in various ways, even wrapped around the wrist as a bracelet. Crafted with diamonds or gold, the sautoir is a statement piece that exudes luxury.
15) Torque Necklace: A Bold Modern Statement
The torque necklace is a modern, bold design worn closely against the skin without a clasp. This open-ended style is often crafted from gold or silver and serves as a striking accessory for those seeking a minimalist, contemporary look.
When selecting a necklace, understanding the different lengths can help you find the perfect style to complement your outfit and personal taste. From the shorter choker and collar necklaces that rest closely around the neck, to the princess and matinee lengths that elegantly drape just below the collarbone, each style offers a unique look. For a bolder statement, the opera necklaces extend gracefully down the torso, adding sophistication to any formal ensemble. Refer to the chart below to explore the various necklace lengths and how they sit on the neckline.
Choosing the Right Necklace: Craftsmanship and Personalization
Selecting the perfect necklace involves understanding not only the style but also the craftsmanship and materials used. At Philippe Harold, we are committed to creating jewellery that reflects the rich heritage of Antwerp’s Diamond District. Our expert team of gemologists, designers, and crafters work meticulously to ensure that every piece embodies the elegance and precision for which Antwerp jewellery is renowned.
Whether you’re searching for a gift or a personal keepsake, our collection offers a wide range of styles and personalization options, and you can always choose for bespoke jewellery from us. From gold necklaces to diamond-studded pieces, each item is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring it becomes a cherished part of your story.
Visit us in Antwerp to experience the beauty and craftsmanship of fine jewellery firsthand, and let us help you find the perfect necklace to mark life’s most special moments.
