Chain names describe how the links are built, and the construction determines almost everything that matters: how the chain catches light, how it sits, how much it costs for a given width, and how likely it is to survive being slept in. Here is what each one actually is.
Cuban link (curb)
Flat, interlocking oval links, each twisted so the whole chain lies flat. The faces are broad, which is why Cuban catches light in wide planes and reads heavier than most other styles at the same millimetre width.
Durability: excellent. Thick links, few weak points.
Suits: anyone who wants presence. Works alone; slightly demanding as a layering piece because it dominates.
Watch for: it is the heaviest style per millimetre, so it is also the most expensive per millimetre.
Cuban link necklaces · Cuban link bracelets
Rope
Small links twisted in a spiral so the chain looks like braided cord. Because the surface is faceted at many angles, rope sparkles more than almost any other solid construction — it catches light no matter how it moves.
Durability: excellent, and unusually strong for its weight. One of the best choices for daily wear.
Suits: almost everyone. Works dainty at 1.35mm and substantial at 4mm.
Watch for: very little. Rope is the safe answer when someone is unsure.
Rope chain necklaces · Rope bracelets
Figaro
A repeating pattern of three short links followed by one elongated link. The irregular rhythm is what makes it recognisable, and it gives the chain visual interest without extra weight.
Durability: very good.
Suits: people who want something with character that still reads classic. Unisex, and layers well because the pattern distinguishes it from plainer chains.
Watch for: the long links are the thinnest point; at very fine widths they are the first thing to stress.
Figaro necklaces · Figaro bracelets
Herringbone and snake
Flat, tightly packed links that form a continuous smooth surface. Worn, they look like a ribbon of liquid gold rather than a series of links — which is exactly the appeal.
Durability: this is the honest caveat. Herringbone is the most delicate common construction. If it kinks, the kink is permanent and effectively unrepairable, because the whole effect depends on the links lying perfectly flat.
Suits: people who want something sleek and are willing to handle it gently.
Watch for: do not sleep in it, do not yank it over your head, store it flat rather than coiled or hanging.
Herringbone and snake necklaces
Singapore
Twisted and diamond-cut, so it sparkles with movement in a similar way to rope but at a lighter weight. It has a slight natural twist that makes it drape well.
Durability: good, though finer than rope at the same width.
Suits: layering, and anyone who wants sparkle without bulk.
Watch for: fine Singapore chains can tangle if stored loose with other chains.
Mariner (anchor)
Oval links with a bar across the centre of each, borrowed from anchor chain. It reads structured and slightly nautical, and the bars give it a distinctive rhythm.
Durability: very good.
Suits: people who find Cuban too much and rope too soft. Genuinely unisex.
Sequin (mirror or disc)
Flat circular discs linked edge to edge, lying flat against the skin and flashing as they turn. Delicate and reflective.
Durability: moderate. The discs are thin by design.
Suits: layering and dressier wear rather than everyday abuse.
Sequin necklaces · Mirror chain necklaces
Rolo and satellite
Rolo is uniform round links, simple and sturdy — the plainest construction, and a good pendant carrier because nothing about the chain competes. Satellite is a fine chain with small beads spaced along it, which adds texture at almost no weight.
Rolo bracelets · Satellite necklaces
If you want one recommendation
For a first solid gold chain that will be worn daily and needs to survive being forgotten about: rope, 2.5–3mm. It is strong, it flatters most necklines, it takes a pendant, and it looks like something rather than nothing.
For something that will be noticed: Cuban, 4mm and up.
For something sleek and dressy that you will treat carefully: herringbone.
Not sure how width changes the answer? Read our guide to choosing a chain width.