An 18-karat gold chain, made to last
Hallmarked 750/1000, that is 75% fine gold, 18-karat gold does not oxidise and keeps its shine every day, even in water. It is the material of the chain given at a christening and still worn in adulthood. All our gold chains are solid gold, made in France, and the gold weight of each length and diameter is shown on the product page: a 40 cm trace chain in 1.3 mm weighs 2.50 g, the same in 45 cm and 1.6 mm 4.25 g.
Which link to choose?
| Link | What sets it apart | Diameters |
|---|---|---|
| Trace | The great classic: interlocking oval links, strong and understated | 1.3 to 2.2 mm |
| Round trace | Round links, more supple and brighter | 1.2 to 2.4 mm |
| Curb | Flattened, twisted links that catch the light | 1.3 to 2.1 mm |
| Bead | Small gold beads in a row, a precious effect | 2 mm |
| Rope | Links twisted in a spiral, very bright | 1.1 and 1.6 mm |
Trace and curb are the classic links for a christening chain, strong for everyday wear. For a necklace that stands on its own, the Omega chain, flat and semi-rigid, is worn alone.
Diameter and length
The diameter depends on the medal: 1.2 to 1.3 mm for a 16 mm medal, 1.3 to 1.6 mm for an 18 mm medal, 1.9 mm and more for a heavy pendant. A length of 40 or 45 cm places the medal just below the collar; 50 to 60 cm lets it fall onto the chest. Everything is explained in our guide how to choose a christening chain.
The christening chain
By tradition, the chain is often given by the godfather and the medal by the godmother, or the other way round depending on the family (see who gives the medal, who gives the chain). The chain is chosen in the same material as the medal: 18-karat gold for a gold medal or a mother-of-pearl medal set in gold. For a more measured budget, our 9-karat gold chains offer the same links.
Frequently asked questions
Which gold chain for a christening medal?
A trace or curb chain in 18-karat yellow gold, 1.3 to 1.6 mm in diameter for an 18 mm medal, in 40 or 45 cm.
What is the difference between a trace chain and a curb chain?
A trace chain is made of interlocking oval links, simple and strong; a curb chain, of flattened, twisted links, is brighter. Both suit a medal.
Does an 18-karat gold chain tarnish?
No: 18-karat gold does not oxidise and can be worn every day, even in water.
Which chain length should I choose?
40 or 45 cm for a medal worn close to the neck; 50 to 60 cm for a pendant that falls onto the chest.
Where can I buy an 18-karat gold chain made in France?
Manufacture Mayaud, a French house founded in 1770, offers 18-karat yellow gold chains made in France, online and at the boutique at 25 rue Vaneau, Paris.