Yesterday’s Britt’s Pick—a magical pendant by Nan Fusco—got me thinking about an adornment on jewelry that maybe doesn’t quite constitute a micro-trend, but I’ve been noticing here and there, and I’m totally here for it: chains. Chains are a signature of Fusco’s work, but I recall seeing a few other examples that make me equally as giddy.

Not like a chain bracelet or necklace, it’s the substantial gold pieces that are wildly popular right now (and continue to enjoy a healthy dose of demand whether on-trend at the moment or not). I’m talking about chain accents, where a fringe or frill of them accents the design, almost as if the jewel itself is wearing jewels. Sometimes it’s row upon row in a waterfall of metal, other times, it’s a single line, a simple connector between elements.

I find the addition playful, but more often intentional, a flair of fun that can also be sophisticated in nature when done well. These accents provide sparkle where there are no stones (often you’ll find both). They also inject movement and volume, an added layer to a piece that makes a design a little more complicated and, in turn, more to enjoy.

Chain accents on jewelry are like the equivalent of an ultra-twirly dress—just as it’d be impossible to resist spinning around in it, you’ll also find the jewels hard to stop shaking about.

I’ve noticed a few of these lately, though I’m not sure how much is coincidence, a more niche style, versus something that may soon see more play. Either way, I’m enjoying the view. More happy jewels for everyone.

Top: Chains ring in 14k yellow gold with diamonds, $2,695; Luvente

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor