Necklaces

Find the Perfect Necklace in the UK: A Shopper’s Guide to Grace & Co, Sekonda and More

Why necklaces matter — more than just bling

Necklaces do more than finish an outfit — they tell a story, mark a memory, and can instantly change the mood of what you wear. Whether you reach for a delicate pendant for work or a chunky statement piece for a night out, the right chain can lift your look in seconds. In the UK there’s a rich mix of options, from high-street favourites to specialist designers, and brands like Grace & Co and Sekonda offer a blend of trend and tradition that’s worth exploring.

Spotlight: Grace & Co Jewellery — feminine, contemporary, and affordable

Grace & Co Jewellery is known for feminine silhouettes, mixed metal looks and pieces that feel both modern and wearable. Their range includes everything from subtle interlocking pendants in 9kt white gold to striking rose gold vermeil ropes and delicate pearl-and-cubic zirconia hearts. If you like jewellery that looks luxe but won’t make you wince at the checkout, this label is a go-to.

Popular Grace & Co pieces to know

If you’re browsing, look out for their Grace Love 9kt White Gold Interlocking Pendant — great for an anniversary — and the Silver & White Chalcedony Square Pendant if you prefer a minimalist geometric vibe. The Rose Gold Vermeil Twisted Rope is perfect for layering, and the Pearl & CZ Heart Necklace nails that timeless romantic look. There’s also a Silver & Yellow Gold Vermeil Angel Pendant if you like symbolic, wearable charms.

Style tips for Grace & Co items

Grace & Co pieces are ideal for mixing metals — try a rose gold vermeil pendant over a classic sterling chain, or layer a delicate pearl piece with a longer rope-style necklace to add texture. Because many of their pieces sit around the collarbone, mid-length chains in about 16" to 18" work particularly well.

Spotlight: Sekonda — classic designs and birthstone options

Sekonda has a long history as a watchmaker turned jewellery label that focuses on accessible, polished pieces. Their necklace collection leans into simple silhouettes, gold and silver finishes, and a popular range of birthstone pendants — ideal for gifting or adding a personal touch to your jewellery box.

Sekonda signature pieces to consider

Standouts include the Gold Circular Pendant Necklace for a streamlined everyday look, and a selection of Silver and Gold Birthstone Necklaces for anyone who loves personalised jewellery. The Figaro Chain offers a bit of edge for men or women who want a classic chain with a stronger presence, and heart chains or small gemstone pendants are staples for layering.

How to wear Sekonda necklaces

For maximum versatility, choose a Sekonda birthstone pendant on an 18" chain — it will sit nicely at the top of most outfits. If you prefer something bolder, a 20" to 24" Figaro chain can make a statement and still layer well with shorter pieces.

Other UK stores to explore for necklaces

Beyond Grace & Co and Sekonda, the UK market is packed with reputable options. High-street names like H.Samuel and Ernest Jones carry broad ranges from affordable to fine jewellery, while Pandora is great for customizable charms and contemporary pendants. For higher-end pieces, look at Beaverbrooks or independent UK designers who prioritise craftsmanship and unique design. Online boutiques and marketplaces also host sustainable and handmade options if you want something one-of-a-kind.

Where to shop for specific needs

Want artisanal or handmade? Try independent designers on UK marketplaces. Looking for a mix of fashion and affordability? H.Samuel, Pandora, and Sekonda will have mass-appeal options. After something luxury or investment-grade? Ernest Jones and Beaverbrooks carry fine gold and gemstone pieces that last a lifetime.

How to pick the right necklace: metal, length, and pendant size

Choosing a necklace comes down to three big decisions: what metal you want, how long the chain should be, and the size of the pendant. Ask yourself: do I want something everyday, or a piece for special occasions? Do I have sensitive skin? These answers will steer you toward sterling silver, gold vermeil, solid gold, or hypoallergenic alternatives.

Guidelines for chain length in inches

Chain length matters. A choker typically measures 14" to 16", sitting high on the neck. A classic necklace length is 16" to 18", resting at the collarbone and flattering most necklines. For a pendant that falls lower on the chest, choose 20" to 24". If you’re layering, mix 16", 18", and 20" lengths to create clear tiers.

Choosing the right metal

Sterling silver is budget-friendly and versatile, gold vermeil (thick gold over sterling silver) gives the gold look for less, and solid gold is the investment piece that won’t tarnish. If you have metal sensitivity, look for pieces labelled hypoallergenic, or opt for higher-karat gold and platinum where possible.

Popular necklace styles explained

Understanding necklace types makes shopping easier. Pendants range from minimalist discs and initials to ornate lockets and symbolic charms. Chains can be delicate (cable, box), textured (Figaro, rope), or statement (curb, herringbone). Gemstone necklaces, pearl strands, and vermeil pieces each have distinct appearances and care needs.

Vermeil vs gold-plated vs solid gold

Vermeil uses a thicker layer of gold over sterling silver and tends to last longer than cheaper gold-plating. Gold-plated jewellery is more affordable but will wear through faster. Solid gold is pricier but the best long-term option if you want durability and a timeless piece that can be passed down.

How to layer necklaces like a pro

Layering turns simple necklaces into a curated statement. Start with a choker or small pendant at 14"–16", add a mid-length piece at 18", and finish with a longer chain at 20" or 24". Mix textures — pair a delicate pendant with a Figaro or rope chain for contrast. Keep one focal point (usually the longest piece) and let the others complement it.

Mixing metals and textures

Mixing metals is perfectly on-trend. Don’t worry too much about matching — stack yellow gold vermeil with rose gold accents and silver to create depth. Textures matter too: a smooth disc pendant sits nicely with a textured rope chain, while a chunky chain can balance a tiny charm.

Caring for your necklace: cleaning and storage tips

Proper care keeps necklaces looking their best. For general cleaning, use a soft cloth and warm soapy water; avoid abrasive brushes on plated pieces. For pearls and delicate stones, wipe gently with a damp cloth and store them flat to avoid stress on the strand.

Storing to avoid tangles and wear

Store necklaces individually in soft pouches or on a jewellery stand to prevent tangles. For travel, lay chains flat in a pouch or use small zip bags to keep chains separated. Keep jewellery away from direct sunlight and humid areas to reduce tarnishing.

Ethical and sustainable considerations

More shoppers ask where metals and stones come from before they buy. Look for retailers who disclose sourcing, use recycled metals, or partner with fair-mining initiatives. Many UK designers now offer recycled gold pieces or lab-grown gemstones as ethical, high-quality alternatives to mined stones.

Certifications and what they mean

Keep an eye out for hallmarking on gold, which guarantees metal purity, and gem certifications for high-value stones. Recycled metal stamps or transparency about the supply chain are good signs that a brand takes sustainability seriously. Independent sellers often highlight ethical practices as part of their story.

Budgeting: how to get the most value when buying necklaces

Set a budget before you start browsing so you can narrow choices. For trend-led pieces, vermeil and gold-plated jewellery give the look without the long-term cost. If you want longevity, opt for solid gold or good-quality sterling silver — those pieces often perform better over time and can be a smarter investment.

Timing your purchase

Sales seasons and gift-giving holidays are great times to find deals, but don’t ignore end-of-season collections or outlet sections from trusted retailers. Also consider buying fewer pieces of higher quality rather than many cheap items that will need replacing frequently.

Necklaces as gifts: picking something meaningful

Birthstone necklaces — like Sekonda month-themed pieces — are personal and thoughtful. Initial pendants, lockets, or symbolic charms (hearts, angels) often carry emotional weight. Think about the recipient’s style: do they prefer minimal lines, vintage details, or bold statements? That helps you choose something they’ll actually wear.

Personalisation options

Many UK jewellers offer engraving, bespoke sizing, or charm additions. Personal touches turn a pretty necklace into a cherished keepsake, especially for milestones like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations.

Shopping online vs in-store: pros and cons

Online shopping offers a huge selection and easy price comparisons across stores like Grace & Co, Sekonda, and others. Photos and reviews help, but in-store visits let you try lengths and see metal colours in real life. If buying online, check measurements in inches and read return terms carefully before committing.

Using reviews and product descriptions

Look for clear product descriptions of metal content, chain length in inches, and pendant dimensions. Customer reviews often share how a piece looks in real life and whether it tarnishes or holds up over time, which is invaluable when choosing an item you’ll wear often.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect necklace in the UK is a fun mix of personal taste, practical choices, and a little knowledge. Grace & Co brings pretty, modern designs that layer beautifully, while Sekonda offers classic, personalised options like birthstone and Figaro chains. Pair these with other UK jewellers for a full shopping experience, and remember to consider metal, chain length in inches, and care instructions before you buy. Whether you’re hunting for a daily staple or a meaningful gift, there’s a necklace out there that fits your style and story.