A brief exploration of the history of the chain styles we use at TIP Design Studio
Prince of Wales
The Prince Of Wales chain is composed of a twisting chain made of small circular links, where each single link has no less than four other link elements joining into it. It is a surprisingly strong chain and was first made somewhere between 1900-1915.
Also referred to as a Loose Rope Chain, Prince of Wales Chain links in comparison to other link types are far less tightly interlocked, allowing greater flexibility in the overall movement from link to link yet maintaining inherent strength, when compared with the classic Rope Chain which features a more rigid tightly-knit link design.
The Prince of Wales Chains style symbolises a statement of silent sophistication. Each chain link is individually rounded with a soft finish and interlocked with each other creating the appearance of a flowing wave-like pattern, making for a wonderful choice of chain to pair with pendants of either traditional or contempory design.
For our current jewellery range we offer the trace chain in the size options 1.99mm and 3.41mm and length options of 16” and 18” for women, and 20” and 24” for mens. Additional lengths are available on request.
Belcher
Belcher chains are a style of Trace chain. The notable design elements that make up the Belcher are broad, round, oval, or D-shaped links of similar size and shape interlocked and soldered together.
Traditionally this classic form has been associated with men’s fashion. The thick links and solid appearance have developed a more universal appeal in recent times, especially when considering the range of potential variations for this particular chain style. In modern times the Belcher chain is considered a unique and contemporary choice within a size range of 1.2mm to 5mm.
There are many different styles and variations of Belcher chains on the current market. The key elements to consider when deciding on the right chain are the desired metal type, thickness, and length. The traditional Belchers are manufactured in yellow gold, white gold, or sterling silver. When considering the thickness for your choice of link it is all dependent on the particular statement you’d like to make with the chain.
For our current jewellery range we offer the Belcher chain in the size options 2.25mm and 3.44mm and length options of 16” and 18” for women, and 20” and 24” for mens. Additional lengths are available on request.
Trace
The Trace chain which can also be referred to as an Anchor or Cable chain is most commonly seen as a fine and delicate in style. Made from a thin wire shaped into uniformed oval or round links. Trace chains are made in a similar way to the simpler chain designs like Cable or Belcher chains. Links of uniform thickness and width, usually small and oval in shape, are joined together one after the other to form a chain. Trace chains can also be found diamond cut for a small eye-catching chain with a sparkle.
If you're in the market for a lightweight and reliable chain that still looks good, then you can’t go wrong with a Trace chain. There is very little that separates Trace chains from smaller versions of other chains, as they are in essence the same design but scaled down. For a simpler approach, it can be easier to refer to all smaller and very fine chains as Trace because the range of unique designs which define these chains are often lost when made this small. Unless you are viewing all possible options through a jeweller's loupe, which is a magnifying glass of sorts.
For our current jewellery range we offer the trace chain in the size options 2.19mm and 3.66mm and length options of 16” and 18” for women, and 20” and 24” for mens. Additional lengths are available on request.
Conclusion
We opted for these chain styles due to their uniquely individual style and traditional ornate design. All three of the link types mentioned above work wonderfully on their own or when supporting a pendant like one of our chess pieces or the chair motif..
