Jewellery Types
Jewellery falls into a handful of families, and knowing them makes everything else easier -- from buying a gift to building your own collection. This hub walks through every type we stock: necklaces and the pendants, chains, chokers and lockets within them; bracelets and bangles, including charm bracelets; earrings in stud, hoop and drop styles; rings; and the supporting cast of charms, brooches and cufflinks. For each we explain what it is, how it is worn and which of our brands do it well -- with links straight to the collections and to our dedicated sizing and buying guides.
Jewellery types at a glance
| Type | Worn on | Sized by | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Necklace | Neck | Length (inches) | Framing a neckline; layering |
| Bracelet | Wrist | Wrist circumference | Stacking; everyday wear |
| Bangle | Wrist | Hand / wrist size | Clean single piece or stack |
| Stud earrings | Earlobe | One size | Everyday; work; sleep |
| Ring | Finger | Ring size (per finger) | Fashion, meaning, gifting |
| Charm bracelet | Wrist | Link count / length | A gift that grows over time |
Necklaces & pendants
Necklace
Any piece worn around the neck on a chain or cord. The catch-all term that covers chains, pendants, chokers and lockets -- length and style decide the look.
What it is
A necklace is jewellery worn around the neck, from a fine chain on its own to a statement collar. The two things that define it are length (how high or low it sits) and whether it carries a pendant or charm. We break lengths down in full in the sizing and measurements hub.
How it is worn
Shorter necklaces sit at or just below the collarbone and suit open necklines; longer chains layer beautifully over knitwear and shirts. Mixing two or three lengths is the heart of the layering look -- see our necklace layering guide.
In our range
Browse all necklaces, from delicate sterling silver to coloured-stone statement pieces by Coeur de Lion and Nomination.
Pendant
A single decorative drop -- a stone, motif or initial -- that hangs from a chain. Sold with a chain or on its own to add to one you already own.
What it is
A pendant is the hanging element of a necklace: a gemstone, a shaped motif, an initial or a locket that sits at the centre. It threads onto a chain through a fixed loop (a bail). Many people build a collection of pendants to swap on a favourite chain.
Pendant vs necklace
A pendant is the charm; the necklace is the whole piece. A 'pendant necklace' simply means a pendant supplied complete with its chain -- which is how most are sold.
In our range
See pendants and ready-to-wear pendant necklaces, including birthstone and symbolic designs. ChloBo and Clogau are popular for meaningful motifs.
Chain
The links that carry everything else. Curb, belcher, box, rope and snake are the common patterns -- each has a different weight, drape and strength.
What it is
A chain is a series of connected metal links. The pattern of those links -- curb, belcher (rolo), box, rope, snake or figaro -- changes how it catches the light, how it drapes and how strong it is. A heavier link is more robust; a finer one is more delicate.
Choosing a chain
Match the chain weight to the pendant: a heavy pendant needs a sturdier chain so it sits well and wears safely. A fine solo chain looks best worn alone or layered. Clasp type matters too -- we cover clasps and findings in the construction and settings hub.
In our range
Chains feature across our necklaces and within brand collections such as Nomination and links and chain styles.
Choker
A short necklace that sits snugly at the base of the neck, around 14 to 16 inches. Elegant on open necklines and the natural top layer in a stack.
What it is
A choker is a close-fitting necklace worn high on the neck rather than draping down the chest. Modern chokers are usually a fine chain or a slim band of stones, a world away from the velvet ribbon of the 1990s.
How it is worn
It frames the neck on strapless and scoop necklines and works as the tightest, top layer when you stack several necklaces. Because it sits high, fit matters -- check the length against your neck in our sizing hub.
Good to know
If you find a choker too snug, a 16 to 18 inch necklace gives a similar framing effect with a little more room.
Locket
A pendant that opens to hold a small photo or keepsake. A sentimental classic that carries a memory close.
What it is
A locket is a hinged pendant with a small compartment inside, traditionally for a photograph or a lock of hair. It is one of the most personal pieces of jewellery you can give or own.
Why people choose them
A locket turns a necklace into a keepsake -- a way to keep a loved one, a child or a memory with you. They make especially meaningful gifts for milestones and in memory of someone.
Good to know
Lockets sit best on a chain strong enough to carry their weight. See related sentimental pieces in our symbolism and occasions hub.
Bracelets & bangles
Bracelet
Any flexible piece worn around the wrist -- chain, beaded or cord. Comfortable, stackable and the easiest category to build a collection around.
What it is
A bracelet is a flexible band worn on the wrist, made from a chain, linked stones, beads or cord, and fastened with a clasp or tie. Unlike a rigid bangle it conforms to the wrist.
How it is worn
Bracelets are made for stacking -- two or three together in mixed metals and textures is the current look. We cover how to combine them in the bracelet stacking guide.
In our range
Browse all bracelets. Standouts include the magnetic-clasp designs of Coeur de Lion, the handmade silver of ChloBo and the Spanish-made UNOde50.
Who makes it: Magnetic-clasp stone bracelets -- Coeur de Lion; handmade silver -- ChloBo
Bangle
A rigid band that either slips over the hand or opens on a hinge. Worn singly for a clean look or in multiples for a layered, jangling stack.
What it is
A bangle is a solid, inflexible bracelet. Two kinds exist: the slip-on, sized to pass over your hand, and the hinged or torque (open-ended) bangle that you ease onto the wrist. Sizing differs from a chain bracelet -- see the sizing hub.
How it is worn
A single fine bangle is understated and smart; several stacked together create movement and a relaxed, boho feel. Mixing metals within a bangle stack is very much on-trend.
In our range
See bangles, including the Welsh-gold-detailed designs of Clogau and the British sterling silver of Kit Heath.
Who makes it: Welsh-gold detail -- Clogau; British sterling silver -- Kit Heath
Charm Bracelet
A bracelet built to carry charms you choose and add over time -- each one a memory. The flagship is Nomination's Composable link system.
What it is
A charm bracelet is a base bracelet designed to hold individual charms that you collect and add as you go, so the piece tells your own story. Different brands use different systems, from threaded beads to clip-on charms to flat composable links.
The Composable system
Nomination's Italian Composable system uses individual stainless-steel base links, each carrying a symbol, that snap together on elastic to build a personalised bracelet. It is one of the most-loved gifting systems we stock.
In our range
Browse charm bracelets, the Nomination charm range and Thomas Sabo, whose Charm Club works the same way. Our best charm bracelets guide compares them.
Who makes it: Composable charm links -- Nomination; Charm Club -- Thomas Sabo
Cuff
An open-ended rigid bracelet with a gap at the back. Slips on from the side and adjusts slightly to fit -- bold and easy to wear.
What it is
A cuff is a wide, rigid bracelet that is open at the back rather than a full circle. You slide it onto the wrist through the gap, and a little gentle flex tailors the fit.
Why people choose them
The open back makes a cuff easy to put on with one hand and forgiving on sizing, while the width gives a confident, statement look. UNOde50's hand-finished silver-plated cuffs are a good example of the style.
In our range
Find cuff-style pieces within bangles and UNOde50.
Earrings
Stud Earrings
A single decorative front fixed by a post through the lobe. The most versatile earring -- understated, secure and right for any occasion.
What it is
A stud sits directly on the earlobe, held by a straight post and a back (a butterfly, screw or push fitting). There is no drop, so the design -- a stone, pearl or motif -- sits flush against the ear.
Why they are popular
Studs are comfortable enough to sleep and exercise in, never catch on clothing or hair, and suit work, weddings and everyday wear alike. A diamond-style or pearl stud is the classic first earring.
In our range
Browse stud earrings, including cubic-zirconia sparkle from Diamonfire and crystal studs from Swarovski.
Who makes it: Cubic-zirconia studs -- Diamonfire; crystal studs -- Swarovski
Hoop Earrings
A ring of metal that passes through the lobe -- from tiny huggies to bold large hoops. A timeless style that flatters every face.
What it is
A hoop is a circular or oval earring that loops through the ear and fastens back into itself or onto a post. Sizes run from small 'huggie' hoops that hug the lobe up to large statement hoops.
How they are worn
Small hoops are an everyday staple; larger ones make an outfit. Hoops suit almost everyone and pair well with a second piercing or a stud in the same ear.
In our range
See hoop earrings across the earrings collection, with designs from Kit Heath and Olivia Burton.
Drop & Dangle Earrings
Earrings where the decorative part hangs below the lobe. Drops elongate the neck and add movement -- ideal for evenings and occasions.
What it is
A drop earring suspends a gem, motif or cluster below the earlobe from a fixed fitting; a dangle or chandelier earring adds extra movement with articulated parts. Both draw the eye and frame the face.
How they are worn
Drops dress an outfit up and suit special occasions, though shorter drops work day-to-day too. They pair best with an up-do or shorter hair that lets them show.
In our range
Browse drop and statement designs within earrings, including the architectural styles of Coeur de Lion and crystal drops from Swarovski.
Rings
Rings
Worn on the finger for fashion, meaning or both -- from slim stacking bands to statement stones. Fit is everything, so size before you buy.
What it is
A ring is a band worn on the finger. Styles range from plain and stacking bands to solitaire stone rings, eternity bands, cocktail rings and signet rings. Each carries its own look and, often, its own meaning.
Getting the size right
A ring has to fit the specific finger it is worn on, and fingers change size with temperature and time of day. Measure properly first -- our how to size a ring at home guide walks you through it, and the sizing hub has the conversion chart.
In our range
Browse all rings, including cubic-zirconia sparkle from Diamonfire, coloured stones from Clogau and crystal designs from Swarovski.
Charms & other pieces
Charms
Small individual symbols added to a bracelet or necklace to personalise it. Collected over time, each marks a person, place or moment.
What it is
A charm is a small decorative symbol -- a heart, an initial, a birthstone, a milestone motif -- designed to be added to a charm bracelet or necklace. Charms are how you make a piece truly yours.
How they work
Each brand has its own fitting: Nomination's flat composable links, Thomas Sabo's clip-and-bead Charm Club, or a simple jump ring on a pendant. Build the collection one occasion at a time.
In our range
See charms, Nomination charms and Thomas Sabo. The symbolism hub explains what popular charms mean.
Brooch
A decorative pin fastened to clothing rather than the body. A heritage piece enjoying a strong revival on lapels, coats and scarves.
What it is
A brooch is an ornamental pin that fixes to fabric with a hinged pin and catch. Once thought traditional, brooches are firmly back in fashion on blazer lapels, coats, hats and scarves.
How it is worn
Pin it to a lapel, gather a scarf, or cluster two or three for a modern take. Because it attaches to cloth, there is no sizing to worry about -- a brooch fits everyone.
In our range
Find brooches within Laura Ashley and the wider jewellery collection.
Cufflinks
Paired fasteners for double (French) shirt cuffs. The defining detail of formal menswear -- and a classic, lasting gift.
What it is
Cufflinks fasten the two sides of a double cuff in place of buttons, using a swivel bar, chain or whale-back fitting. They are worn with formal and business shirts that have buttonholes on both cuff edges.
Why they matter
Cufflinks are one of the few pieces of jewellery in classic menswear, so they carry weight as a signature detail and as a gift for weddings, milestones and the office.
In our range
Browse cufflinks within our men's jewellery.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main types of jewellery?
The core categories are necklaces (including pendants, chains, chokers and lockets), bracelets and bangles, earrings (studs, hoops and drops), rings, and charms. Beyond those sit brooches, cufflinks and anklets. Browse everything in our jewellery collection.
What is the difference between a pendant and a necklace?
A necklace is the whole piece worn around the neck; a pendant is the decorative drop that hangs from it. A 'pendant necklace' is a pendant sold complete with a chain. You can also buy pendants on their own to add to a chain you already have.
What is the difference between a bracelet and a bangle?
A bracelet is flexible -- a chain, beaded or cord band that conforms to the wrist and fastens with a clasp. A bangle is rigid: either a slip-on circle sized to pass over your hand or a hinged band you ease on. They are also sized differently, which our sizing hub explains.
What is a charm bracelet and how does it work?
It is a base bracelet built to hold individual charms you collect over time, so the piece becomes personal. Brands use different systems -- Nomination's flat Composable links, Thomas Sabo's Charm Club beads, or simple clip-on charms. Our best charm bracelets guide compares them.
What are the different types of earrings?
The main fittings are studs (a front fixed by a post, sitting flush on the lobe), hoops (a ring through the ear, from tiny huggies to large statement hoops), and drops or dangles (a decorative part that hangs below the lobe). Studs are the everyday all-rounder; drops dress an outfit up.
Which earrings are best for everyday wear?
Studs are the most practical for daily wear -- they are comfortable, secure, never catch on clothing or hair, and are fine to exercise and often to sleep in. A pearl, cubic-zirconia or plain metal stud is the classic everyday choice.
What types of rings are there?
Common styles include plain or stacking bands, solitaire (single-stone) rings, eternity bands set all the way round, cocktail or statement rings with a large stone, and signet rings. Whatever the style, the key is a correct fit -- see our ring sizing guide.
What is a choker?
A choker is a short necklace, roughly 14 to 16 inches, that sits snugly at the base of the neck rather than draping down. It frames open necklines and acts as the top layer when you stack several necklaces. If it feels too tight, a 16 to 18 inch necklace gives a similar look with more room.
What is a locket?
A locket is a pendant that opens on a hinge to hold a small photo or keepsake inside. It is one of the most sentimental pieces of jewellery, popular for milestones and in memory of a loved one.
Are brooches still fashionable?
Yes -- brooches have had a strong revival and are worn on blazer lapels, coats, hats and scarves, often clustered in twos or threes for a modern look. Because a brooch pins to fabric rather than the body, it fits everyone and needs no sizing.
What are cufflinks and who wears them?
Cufflinks are paired fasteners that close a double (French) shirt cuff in place of buttons. They are a staple of formal and business menswear and a classic gift for weddings and milestones. See our cufflinks and men's jewellery.
What jewellery can men wear?
Men's jewellery commonly includes chain necklaces and pendants, bracelets and bangles, signet and band rings, and cufflinks. Browse our dedicated men's jewellery collection for stocked pieces.
What is the most popular type of jewellery to gift?
Necklaces, bracelets and earrings are the easiest gifts because they do not need a precise size, unlike rings. Charm bracelets are especially popular because the recipient can keep adding to them. For sizing-free gifting tips see our buying guide.
How do I start a jewellery collection?
Begin with versatile staples -- a pair of studs, a fine everyday necklace and a bracelet or bangle -- then add statement and occasion pieces over time. Charm bracelets and stackable rings and bangles are ideal because they are designed to be added to.
What is the difference between a cuff and a bangle?
Both are rigid, but a bangle is a closed circle (slip-on or hinged) while a cuff is open at the back. You slide a cuff on from the side and a little flex tailors the fit, which makes cuffs easy to put on and forgiving on sizing.
Can I wear more than one necklace at once?
Yes -- layering two or three necklaces of different lengths is a popular look. Start with a choker or short chain and add longer pieces beneath. Our necklace layering guide shows how to space the lengths.
What does OD's stock across these types?
We carry necklaces, pendants, bracelets, bangles, charm bracelets, earrings, rings, charms, brooches and cufflinks across brands including Nomination, Clogau, Kit Heath, ChloBo, Coeur de Lion, Thomas Sabo, Olivia Burton, Vivienne Westwood, UNOde50, Diamonfire and Swarovski. Browse all jewellery.
Where do I start if I do not know what someone likes?
A pair of stud earrings, a fine pendant necklace or a charm bracelet are safe, well-loved choices that do not need a precise size. If you know they collect charms, adding to an existing bracelet is always welcome. See the buying guide for more gifting help.