Top 13 Best Gold Necklaces for Men (2023 Guide)

Want to change up your look with a piece of jewelry you can wear every day? You should try a gold necklace.

Men’s jewelry has undergone a sea change over the past couple of decades, but the ubiquitous gold chain necklace remains a fixture in every man’s wardrobe.

The gold chain is a supremely versatile piece of jewelry; it has the ability to elevate the most casual of outfits without being over-flashy or unintentionally dominating your vibe. Wear one over a t-shirt, polo neck or button-up for a casual yet upgraded look.

Quick Take

Short on time? Here are our top three picks for the best gold necklaces you can buy right now:

Read on for more info and the complete list…

Types of Men’s Necklaces

Men’s necklaces come in many forms and shapes — and much like women’s necklaces, they can be either delicate and subtle or bulky and bold.

When buying online, there are many chains and necklaces to choose from, but below we’ve listed the 10 most popular types of necklaces for guys.

Anchor/Mariner Chain Necklaces

Inspired by the nautical world, anchor chain necklaces are designed with interlocking ovals connected by ovals across the center.

The design of these necklaces is often compared to the chains connected to anchors, hence their name.

Anchor chain necklaces come in a variety of widths, with thicker chains more popular among men.

The ‘puffed’ version of the mariner chain is also becoming increasingly popular compared to the traditionally flat style.

Ball/Bead Chain Necklaces

Ball chain necklaces, also known as bead chain necklaces, consist of tiny beads linked together. These can be connected either very close together or with small spaces between them to allow for some movement.

Unlike anchor chain necklaces, ball chain necklaces are best worn together with a dog tag or pendant to get that cool, street-smart look.

If you’re looking for a necklace that isn’t bulky or heavy, you’ll definitely love the bead chain necklace styles.

Box Chain Necklaces

This type of men’s gold necklace is made of square links that are connected together to create a continuous chain. They tend to be popular among both men and women, with wider necklaces usually preferred by men due to their bulkier look.

One of the best parts about choosing a box chain necklace is its durability. It won’t break easily and, even if a link breaks, it can be easily fixed or replaced. An added benefit is that you can usually choose the length of the chain depending on either your personal preference or your outfit.

Cable Chain Necklaces

Cable chain necklaces, also known as link chain necklaces, are perhaps the most popular types of men’s necklaces on the market. They consist of a series of interconnected identical oval links, which can range from delicate to bulky and from flat to textured.

A cable chain necklace is suitable on its own as well as paired with a pendant.

Much like box chain necklaces, they are very sturdy; both broken and misshapen links are easy to repair or replace, which means your necklace will last a long time. However, a cable chain link can come apart where it’s joined if the chain hasn’t been carefully crafted.

Curb “Cuban” Chain Necklaces

Another basic and timeless design, curb chain necklaces consist of interconnected, uniform links that lay flat even while interlocked. These necklaces are distinguished by their heavy and chunky form, which have a masculine touch and tend to be preferred almost exclusively by men.

On the other hand, smaller and thinner curb chain necklaces are popular among women thanks to their feminine and delicate shape.

This type of men’s necklace is durable and easy to both maintain and care for. They are generally worn on their own, though you can add pendants or dog tags for a cooler look.

Figaro Chain Necklaces

A fancier version of the classic cable chain necklace, Figaro chain necklaces originate in Italy and consist of an alternating pattern of chain links in different sizes. Usually, these necklaces will have a pattern of one longer link followed by two or three shorter ones.

Figaro chain necklaces are considered gender-neutral, which means they can be worn by both men and women. They’re made using thick wire, so they tend to be sturdy and durable. However, broken links can’t be removed without replacing them without risking messing up the pattern.

The bulkier version of this Italian necklace is especially popular among men and is usually worn on its own. You will likely have seen it worn by rappers and hip-hop artists as well.

Rope Chain Necklaces

Rope chain necklaces are decidedly among the most beautiful men’s necklaces. They consist of metal segments that are twisted and connected to resemble a rope.

These types of necklaces are possibly the most textural and also the most durable, which makes them particularly attractive to men.

Ideal on their own or paired with pendants, rope chain necklaces make excellent statement pieces you can wear with almost anything.

Available in thick and thin designs alike, these necklaces don’t easily come apart, so they’re great if you’re looking for a sturdy piece of jewelry.

Singapore Chain Necklace

The Singapore chain necklace is a durable chain consisting of a series of interlinked segments.

This type of necklace is well known for its strength regardless of width/thickness, which is why they tend to be very popular among men.

When stretched out, Singapore chain necklaces move with an almost liquid touch. You can wear it on its own or pair it with a beautiful pendant or dog tag depending on your personal preference.

Snake Chain Necklace

Snake chain necklaces are popular for their flexibility and liquid movement, which resemble those of a snake.

They’re made up of a series of small rings that are tightly connected to form a smooth and shiny chain. Unlike other types of men’s gold necklaces, they have a semi-rigid structure, which means they don’t tangle easily or catch on other objects.

Snake chains are generally associated with charm jewelry. Indeed, most charm bracelets use a snake chain, so you have the option to wear it on its own or customize it with charms or pendants of your choice.

If you’re looking for men’s chain necklaces that require little care and upkeep to maintain their shiny look, then you’ll definitely appreciate how easy to care for snake chain necklaces are.

Spiga/Wheat Chain Necklace

Spiga or wheat chain necklaces feature twisted oval links plaited together in one direction, creating a delicate and symmetrical chain with a beautiful textural appearance. More often than not, these necklaces tend to look like the tips of wheat stalks, hence their name.

With their semi-rigid and durable design, wheat chain necklaces can be worn solo or paired with pendants.

The 13 Best Gold Necklaces for Men

Here are some great gold necklaces to choose from.

Miansai Venetian Chain

You simply can’t go wrong with Miansai jewelry. We’re always impressed with their versatility, value for money and well-crafted design. Miansai products are handmade in the US by in-house master craftsmen.

Their jewelry strikes a perfect balance between great style, a high level of workmanship and surprisingly affordable pricing. Check them out if you are not already familiar with them. 

Miansai’s Venetian chain necklace makes the list for its perfectly understated look.

It is minimalist in design and not overly ostentatious, yet it freshens you up with a modest level of sophistication. Wear it alone, in layers, or attach a pendant if you like. It is available in 24”, 14k polished gold.

Here are a couple more of Miansai’s gold necklaces we particularly like:  

Mejuri Engravable Bar Necklace

Mejuri is a British company, also with a mission of empowerment, sustainability combined with high quality.  In the US, they are sold exclusively in Nordstrom. The company’s aim is to redefine luxury by offering fair pricing combined with great design. 

This is a more unusual horizontal straight bar necklace which is available in solid yellow 14k gold.

The chain is adjustable from 16” to 18” and they offer free engraving with alphanumeric characters plus spaces, should you be so inclined. Font is Segoe UI. It’s unisex, so your wife or girlfriend will want to borrow this one. 

Miansai 2mm Cuban Chain

If you’re looking for a men’s gold necklace you can wear with anything, this sleek piece from Miansai is sure to be your go-to accessory.

The necklace features a delicate Cuban chain handcrafted from high-quality 14K yellow gold with a polished finish.

With a width of 2mm and a length of 24 inches, this piece can be worn on its own or layered with others for an extra cool vibe.

No chain is perfect, but this one is close.

Tiffany Dog Tag Pendant

Tiffany — you know the name. This high-brow brand makes much more than diamond engagement rings in pale blue boxes, though.

Their line of men’s jewelry was given a major overhaul by ex- Creative Director, Reed Krakoff in 2019 in order to diversify their traditional customer base and attract the younger, hipper male shopper.

It is a beautiful collection, though at a higher price point, of course. If you value a designer name, exquisite quality and some level of brag appeal, Tiffany meets the mark.

The dog tag got its name from identification disks worn by soldiers in wartime. In Tiffany’s hands it has become a chic, sleek style statement.

This one is designed in 18k gold and features the Tiffany 1837 holloware shop trademark. It comes on a 24” chain, and you can have the tag itself engraved and personalized. 

Miansai Dove Necklace with Pendant

A decided upgrade from our top pick, this necklace offers a delicate 3mm chain with a stylish Cuban design that is highly versatile.

The piece features two special antique reproduction pendants showcasing a beautiful dove design hanging on the 14K yellow gold chain.

A pleasant surprise is that you can customize the necklace with a monogram, which makes this chain an ideal gift for the special man in your life.

To sum it up, this chain is a bit pricey but is overall an excellent choice.

Miansai 1.7mm Cable Chain with Anchor Pendant

Anchor through every season with style with this stunning men’s necklace in sterling silver and 18K rose gold.

The delicate 1.7mm oxidized sterling silver chain boasts a minimal cable design that stands in contrast with the 18K rose gold-plated brass anchor pendant, offering a gorgeous take on a classic motif.

Whether you’re looking to add some serious bling to your look or just finish off an outfit, this Miansai anchor pendant necklace is the perfect choice.

If you don’t mind a chain that requires a bit more maintenance (cleaning), this might be the one for you.

Miansai 1.7mm Cable Chain

Another cable chain design, this Miansai necklace offers a stylish oxidized sterling silver chain that accentuates the 18K yellow gold-plated brass marine link center piece.

The 27-inch chain works well over basic pullovers and t-shirts, and it can be easily layered with other chain necklaces.

A longer chain like this one isn’t great for shorter guys, but it’s a solid choice for gents who aren’t of modest height.

David Yurman Smooth Amulet Box Chain

David Yurman offers a wide variety of men’s necklaces, from curb chains, box chains, wheat chains and more. This next one gives the gold necklace a slightly different look. 

It is an 18k yellow gold smooth amulet box chain with a gold circle, 2.7 mm chain and push clasp.

Miansai 3mm Cuban Chain

The last option on our list is this 3mm Cuban chain necklace, which boasts a two-tone metal design ideal for street style looks.

The Cuban chain is handcrafted from matte oxidized sterling silver and polished 14K yellow gold, offering a great combination of quality and value at an equally great price.

Wear it on its own or layer it with other styles for an elevated yet modest accent to any look.

This chain is an overall solid choice if you don’t mind the price.

Miansai Volt Link Paper Clip

It’s a little kooky, and off-center. The paper clip necklace is in polished gold and is 24’ in length. 

Be ready to answer questions about this one. 

Miansai Shark Tooth Vermeil Necklace

This shark tooth necklace is in 14k plated gold. It has a sportier design with a quasi-fishing vibe.

Wear it anytime you feel like showing off your more dangerous side. 

Bony Levy Gold Bar Pendant Necklace

Bony Levy makes “elegant, trend-setting jewelry that can be worn every day.” Bony debuted his first collection at Nordstrom back in 1998 and his brand has stayed there ever since. 

This 14k gold bar drop pendant necklace manages to combine elegance with everyday cool. It is a 21 3/4″ length; 1/8″W x 7/8″L pendant.

Miansai Vertigo Pendant 

Meet the classy Vertigo pendant. 

This one is in gold vermeil and comes with a black onyx inlay, but it is available with inlays of agate and paolo onyx. It’s a more formal look. 

FAQs About Men’s Gold Necklaces

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about men’s gold necklaces:

How Much Does a Men’s Gold Chain Cost?

The cost varies widely depending on what kind of material is used (i.e., gold-plated metal vs. real gold), but you should expect to pay anywhere from $50-$1,500 for your gold necklace.

Can Guys Wear Gold Necklaces?

Yes! Gold necklaces are a timeless, versatile accessory for men to add to their wardrobes.

What Is the Most Popular Men’s Gold Chain?

The most popular gold chain for men is a simple Cuban chain. Most men prefer 2mm or 4mm chains without any pendants.

How Much Is a 14K Gold Necklace Worth?

Since the value of a gold necklace is based on how much gold it contains, it’s impossible to say how much a gold chain is worth without knowing its weight.

Can I Shower with My Gold Chain Necklace On?

Yes, you can shower while wearing your gold chain necklace. Water will not damage the metal.

What’s the Best Size for a Men’s Gold Necklace?

Most men should opt for a 2-4mm thick chain that’s 20″ or 22″ long.

Time To Upgrade Your Style

Men’s gold necklaces are here to stay. Fashion month on the runway was full of them; the 2022 catwalks of Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana showed them, and celebrities galore all wore them.

They’re a fashion and style staple; they add pizzazz to your look; they give you an air of confidence and they make you look affluent and sexy. 

What more could you want?

Questions? Comments? Leave them below!