You’ve probably noticed the emergence of large gold chain necklaces as a trend over the past several months, like these cool links for men our editor-in-chief Victoria Gomelsky reported on in October or this one about bold chains shared by me, also last month.

Styles like these are so beloved because they’re easy to throw on and mix and match with just about everything, so you know you’re getting a good bit of wear for the cost.

That logic certainly applies to this one-of-a-kind necklace by the incomparable Polly Wales, but it’s absolutely in a league of its own. We’re talking next level. Several levels, actually.

The handmade neckpiece in 18k yellow gold features open bar links, which on their own comprise a chic, chunky chain akin to of-the-moment styles that beautifully layer with other pieces.

But could it really be a Polly Wales creation without the designer’s signature gemstone detail?

One look and you’d probably know the likes of which this colorful creation came from, with Wales’ recognizable sprinkling of gemstones set in such a way that I swear it looks like the necklace itself grew them. Like a garden of gems, multicolor sapphires twist in and out, winding around the links like vines. You’ll find varying shapes and colors, set culet up and down, in a color pattern following a natural gradient that repeats to ensure you get a view of the rainbow from all angles.

“The chain was initially designed as part of a collection inspired by French catacombs and Parisian cemeteries,” says Wales. “I wanted to capture the qualities of creeping moss, so the stones twist and ‘grow’ over the necklace in a rainbow of verdant growth. What I love about the open frame of the links with the stones encrusting them, is how the light can shine through the stones, adding a brilliance to an otherwise very opulent piece.”

The necklace is divine with one of Wales’ signature Padlock pendants, but it’s just as much a scene-stealer worn as a strand. Even still, the chain would look excellent stacked with any number of sleek chains, a colorful addition to the gilded neck parties currently dominating my Instagram feed.

Top: Handmade bar chain in 18k yellow gold with multicolor sapphires, $44,495; Polly Wales

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