How to Measure Necklace Length: 3 Methods and Where Each Length Sits

Necklace lengths are quoted in inches, and a number on a product page means little until you know where it falls on you. This guide shows three ways to measure, explains what is and is not counted, and shows where the common lengths sit, so you can order the right size the first time. For a visual, our necklace length visualizer and chain necklace length guide show each length on a figure.

Method 1: Measure a Necklace You Already Own

This is the fastest method, and it tells you which length you like. Follow these steps:

1. Lay the necklace flat on a table, with the chain in a straight line.
2. Open the clasp so the chain is a single strand.
3. Measure from one end of the chain to the other with a ruler or a soft tape.

If you cannot open the clasp, lay the closed necklace flat, measure from one end to the other across the loop, and double the number. Jewelers describe this as the full length of the necklace.

Method 2: Measure With a String

This method works when you do not own a necklace in the length you want.

1. Cut a piece of string longer than you expect to need.
2. Wrap it around your neck and let it hang where you want the pendant to sit on your chest.
3. Pinch the string where the two ends meet and lay it flat.
4. Measure the string with a ruler.

Try a few lengths with the string, because the difference between 16 and 18 inches is easy to see in a mirror. For a person with a larger neck or broader frame, a given length sits higher than on a slim neck.

Measuring for a Choker

Measure your neck comfortably, not snugly, and then add 2 to 4 inches. Jewelers suggest about 2 inches for a close fit and more if you want it looser, because a choker should not press on the throat. A 14 inch choker suits a smaller neck and a 16 inch suits many adults. Our types of choker necklaces guide covers the styles.

What Counts in the Length

• The chain: measured from end to end, the way the necklace lies when it is open and flat.
• The pendant: not counted. It hangs from the chain, so a pendant on an 18 inch chain sits below where the chain alone would.
• The extender: if a necklace has an extender, the quoted length may be the shortest setting, or the longest. Check the product page. For example, a 16 inch chain with a 2 inch extender adjusts from 16 to 18 inches.
• The clasp: usually included in the total, but a small amount.

If you need a little more length, see our guide to the necklace extender.

Where Each Length Sits

These are general guides, and the exact spot depends on your height, neck and frame. For a full chart of lengths, see our chain necklace length guide, and for men's lengths see the men's necklace length chart.

Choosing a Length for Your Neckline

Choose a length that lets the pendant sit in the open space your neckline leaves. A short chain suits a high neckline poorly, and a long one gets lost against a busy top. Our guides to necklaces for a V neck, square neckline and different necklines explain which length works with each.

Measuring for a Man

Most men wear 18 to 22 inches, and the same methods apply. A string at the neck works best, and an adjustable chain removes the guesswork. Our Men's Cross Necklace adjusts from 18 to 22 inches. See the men's necklace length chart and the stainless steel necklace for men guide.

How to Test a Length Before You Buy

Use the string you measured with and compare it with a necklace you already wear. Hold the string at the spot you want in front of a mirror, then check it against the lengths on the product page, and remember that a pendant adds weight that pulls the chain slightly lower. If you are buying a gift, look at where the person's existing necklaces sit, or ask a friend to check. When you are between two sizes, choose the longer one if it has an extender or a way to shorten it, because a chain that is a little long is easier to fix than one that is too short.

If a Necklace Is Too Long or Too Short

A necklace that is too short can be lengthened with an extender, which our necklace extender guide explains. A necklace that is too long can be shortened temporarily by clasping it into a link partway along the chain, as shown in our guide to temporarily shortening a necklace, or layered with another chain so the length reads as intentional.

Common Mistakes When Measuring

• Counting the pendant. The length is the chain only.
• Measuring a closed loop without doubling it. A necklace laid flat while clasped is half its length.
• Forgetting the extender. Check whether the quoted length includes it.
• Measuring the neck tightly for a choker. Leave room to breathe.
• Ignoring your frame. The same length sits higher on a broader neck.

Matching a chain to a pendant? See how to choose a chain for a pendant.

Dressing for cold weather? See what necklace to wear with a sweater.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you measure necklace length?

Lay the necklace flat, open the clasp and measure the chain end to end with a ruler. If it is clasped into a loop, lay it flat, measure across and double the number.

Do you include the pendant when measuring necklace length?

No. The length is the chain only, and the pendant hangs below it. A pendant on an 18 inch chain sits lower than the chain alone would.

How do I measure my neck for a necklace?

Wrap a string around your neck, mark where you want the pendant to fall, lay it flat and measure it. For a choker, measure your neck comfortably and add 2 to 4 inches.

What does a 16 inch necklace look like?

A 16 inch necklace falls near the collarbone on a petite frame, and sits closer to a choker on a broader neck. It is a common length for a small pendant.

What length is a princess necklace?

Princess length is usually 18 inches, which falls just below the collarbone. Matinee length is 20 to 24 inches, which falls between the collarbone and the bust.

Does the extender count in the necklace length?

It depends on the listing, so check the product page. A 16 inch chain with a 2 inch extender usually adjusts from 16 to 18 inches.

Written by AJLuxe Team. Last updated: October 2026

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