A Figaro chain is a flat gold chain with a repeating pattern, usually three short round links followed by one longer oval link. That long-and-short rhythm gives it a classic look that works for men and women, alone or with a pendant.
What does a Figaro chain look like?
Figaro links are flattened, so the chain lies smooth against the skin, similar to a curb chain. The difference is the pattern. Instead of every link being the same, a Figaro breaks things up with a longer link at set intervals.
The most common pattern is 3:1, which means three short links, then one long link. You may also see:
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1:1: one short link, one long link, for a more open look
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5:1: five short links between each long one, for a subtler pattern
The style traces back to Italian chainmaking, and it has stayed popular because it reads dressy and casual at the same time.
Figaro vs Cuban vs Franco: how do they compare?
|
Figaro |
Cuban |
Franco |
| Pattern |
Short and long links |
Uniform oval links |
Uniform V-shaped links |
| Profile |
Flat |
Flat, chunky |
Four-sided |
| Look |
Classic, patterned |
Bold |
Sleek, tight |
| With a pendant |
Good |
Good |
Excellent |
If you want something bolder, read our Cuban link chain guide. If you want maximum strength for a pendant, see Franco Chains Explained.
What width Figaro should I get?
The Figaro chains in our collection run from 2mm to 5mm. Here is how each width wears:
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2mm: fine and light, good for women or a small charm
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3mm: an easy everyday chain for anyone
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4mm: a clear pattern you can see from across the room
-
5mm: a confident men's chain that stands on its own
The wider the chain, the easier it is to see the long-and-short pattern. On very thin Figaros, the pattern shows up as a subtle texture. For more on sizing, see How to Choose Chain Width.
What length should a Figaro chain be?
-
16 to 18 inches: sits at the base of the neck to the collarbone on most women
-
20 inches: a common choice for women who want a pendant to sit lower, or for men who want it close to the neck
-
22 to 24 inches: the most common range for men
For a full chart and tips on measuring, see the gold chain length guide.
How do I wear a Figaro chain?
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Solo. A 4mm or 5mm Figaro is a finished look with a T-shirt or an open collar.
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With a pendant. A cross, initial or medallion sits nicely. Make sure the bail fits over the long links and the clasp.
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Layered. Pair a thin Figaro with a rope or Franco at a different length for contrast in texture.
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As a bracelet match. Figaro bracelets are classic. Browse bracelets to match your chain.
How do I care for a Figaro chain?
Figaros are simple to care for because the flat links do not trap much dirt. Wash with warm water and mild soap, brush gently, rinse and dry fully. Lay it flat to store so the flat links do not twist. If a link stretches or the clasp wears, bring it in for a repair in store.
Visit or text us
Want to see the 3:1 pattern up close in a few widths? Come by our family-owned store at 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, open 7 days, or call or text (973) 673-3800. Shop our Figaro chains online.
Figaro Chains: The Classic Long-and-Short Link
A Figaro chain is a flat gold chain with a repeating pattern, usually three short round links followed by one longer oval link. That long-and-short rhythm gives it a classic look that works for men and women, alone or with a pendant.
What does a Figaro chain look like?
Figaro links are flattened, so the chain lies smooth against the skin, similar to a curb chain. The difference is the pattern. Instead of every link being the same, a Figaro breaks things up with a longer link at set intervals.
The most common pattern is 3:1, which means three short links, then one long link. You may also see:
The style traces back to Italian chainmaking, and it has stayed popular because it reads dressy and casual at the same time.
Figaro vs Cuban vs Franco: how do they compare?
If you want something bolder, read our Cuban link chain guide. If you want maximum strength for a pendant, see Franco Chains Explained.
What width Figaro should I get?
The Figaro chains in our collection run from 2mm to 5mm. Here is how each width wears:
The wider the chain, the easier it is to see the long-and-short pattern. On very thin Figaros, the pattern shows up as a subtle texture. For more on sizing, see How to Choose Chain Width.
What length should a Figaro chain be?
For a full chart and tips on measuring, see the gold chain length guide.
How do I wear a Figaro chain?
How do I care for a Figaro chain?
Figaros are simple to care for because the flat links do not trap much dirt. Wash with warm water and mild soap, brush gently, rinse and dry fully. Lay it flat to store so the flat links do not twist. If a link stretches or the clasp wears, bring it in for a repair in store.
Visit or text us
Want to see the 3:1 pattern up close in a few widths? Come by our family-owned store at 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, open 7 days, or call or text (973) 673-3800. Shop our Figaro chains online.