Are you looking to buy a gold chain but are lost in the price differences? Between a chain at €200 and another at €1,000 that seem similar in the photos, it's difficult to know if you're paying a fair price.
The price of a gold chain isn't arbitrary. It's based on a simple equation: the weight of the gold. Understanding this will help you avoid the pitfalls of chains that break within weeks.
⚡ In Brief: Price of an 18k Gold Chain (Massive)
Fine chain (40cm): €180 - €350 (approx. 2g) - For a child or as a lightweight pendant.
Classic Chain (50cm): € 600 - €1250 (approx. 5g) The solid standard.
Men's Chain (60cm+): 1600€ - 3500€ (approx. 15g+) - Heavy and durable.
Golden rule: An 18k gold chain for less than €150 is either extremely fragile, or it's not 18k.
The Price List: How Much Does It Really Cost?
Here are some realistic price ranges for chains in 18-carat gold of quality (short supply chain workshop).
| String Type | Length | Average Weight | Fair Price (Workshop) | Use |
| Fine / Baby | 40-45 cm | 0.7g - 3g | €180 - €350 | Lightweight pendant, Baptism |
| Classic Women's | 50-55 cm | 4g - 8g | €500 - €1200 | Medium pendant, Everyday |
| Men's / Thick | 55-60 cm | 10g - 25g | €1600 - €2800 | Single or large pendant |
| Jump | 70cm + | 8g - 40g | €1200 - €4000 | Assertive style |
What Depends on the Price of a Gold Chain?
1. Weight: The Determining Factor
An 18-karat gold chain is, first and foremost, solid gold. Its value is directly linked to its weight in grams.
With a high price of gold, the calculation is simple: the heavier it is, the more expensive it is.
What this means: Two 50cm chains can have very different prices. A thin 2g chain will cost much less than a thick 10g chain, even if the length is the same.
2. The Type of Mesh: The Shape That Changes Everything
Some mesh sizes consume more gold than others of the same width.
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Convict Mail: The most classic and economical. Its open links make it a light and strong chain. Ideal for pendants.
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Gourmette knit: Heavier and flatter. It requires more gold.
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Coffee Bean Mesh: Bulky and often heavy (if massive). It is a "statutory" mesh.
3. Massive Chain vs. Hollow Chain: The Crucial Difference
This is where many people get scammed.
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Massive (Full) Chain: The gold wire is solid. It's heavy, strong, repairable, and durable. It's the pinnacle of quality.
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Hollow Chain (Blown): The link is an empty tube. It's cheaper, but it remains fragile depending on the tube's thickness.
Advice : For everyday wear, opt for a solid, chunky piece of jewelry.
The Price Is Right at The Southern Girl's
At the house of At La Fille du Sud , we apply a transparent pricing model based on the actual weight of the gold.
The "Direct Workshop" Model
Unlike traditional jewelry stores where a chain passes through a multitude of intermediaries, each taking a margin, we can offer you lower prices with superior quality.
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Result : You're paying for the gold and the work, not the luxury boutique.
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Advantage : For the same budget, you get a chain heavier and stronger in our country.
Our Chain Collections:
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18k Gold Forçat Chain: The timeless one, perfect for medals.
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18k Gold Coffee Bean Chain: Volume and brilliance, for a bold style.
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18k Gold Curb Chain: Understated elegance.
All our channels are in Certified 18-karat gold (hallmark 750).
Find the perfect chain down to the gram.
💎 Discover our 18k Gold Chains and Necklaces
Don't Pay for Nothing
The price of a gold chain reflects its weight and quality.
Before buying, always ask yourself these three questions:
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What is the weight in grams?
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Is the chain solid or hollow?
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Is it definitely 18k gold (and not plated or 9k gold)?
To understand the importance of this difference when choosing your chain, consult our comparison: Gold 9k vs 18k: Which to choose?
These answers will allow you to instantly assess whether the price is justified.
Quick FAQ
What length should I choose for a man?
The standard is 55 cm or 60 cm . 50 cm might be too short (touching the neck) for a man with an average to thick neck.
What type of chain is suitable for a heavy pendant?
The chain should weigh at least as much as the pendant. If your medal weighs 5g, don't choose a 2g chain; it will wear out prematurely. Aim for a chain of 5g or more.
How do I maintain my chain?
18k gold doesn't oxidize, but it does get dirty. A simple wash with soapy water is all it takes. See our guide: How to clean a gold chain.