The most popular gold chains are Cuban, Franco, rope, Figaro, box, Byzantine, mariner and paperclip. Cuban and Franco are the go-to strong everyday chains, rope and Figaro are classic and shine, and box and paperclip are cleaner and lighter. Here is how they compare.
Side by side
| Style |
Look |
Strength |
Holds a pendant? |
| Cuban |
Flat, interlocking curb links |
High (solid) |
Yes, in smaller widths |
| Franco |
V-shaped links, square profile |
Very high |
Yes, great choice |
| Rope |
Twisted links, lots of shine |
Good |
Yes |
| Figaro |
Pattern of short and long links |
Good |
Yes |
| Box |
Square links, smooth |
Good for its weight |
Yes, especially fine pendants |
| Byzantine |
Woven, textured |
Good |
Usually worn alone |
| Mariner |
Oval links with a center bar |
Good |
Yes |
| Paperclip |
Long, open links |
Moderate |
Light pendants |
Deep dives
Cuban · Franco · Rope · Figaro
Which is strongest for daily wear?
Solid Franco and solid Cuban chains are the toughest everyday picks. Thin rope and paperclip chains need a bit more care. See Strongest Chains for Daily Wear.
See them in person
Browse gold chains, visit 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800.
Gold Chain Styles Compared: Cuban, Franco, Rope, Figaro, Box and More
The most popular gold chains are Cuban, Franco, rope, Figaro, box, Byzantine, mariner and paperclip. Cuban and Franco are the go-to strong everyday chains, rope and Figaro are classic and shine, and box and paperclip are cleaner and lighter. Here is how they compare.
Side by side
Deep dives
Cuban · Franco · Rope · Figaro
Which is strongest for daily wear?
Solid Franco and solid Cuban chains are the toughest everyday picks. Thin rope and paperclip chains need a bit more care. See Strongest Chains for Daily Wear.
See them in person
Browse gold chains, visit 260 Main St, Orange, NJ, or call or text (973) 673-3800.