Ask for "silver chain" and you'll get a dozen different answers, because chain isn't one product - it's a family of constructions, each built from a differently shaped and linked unit. The style determines how it drapes, how strong it is, and what it's suited for. Our own chains collection spans 41 designs across 13 real style families, so here's what the names actually mean.
Anchor (curb) chain
Anchor chain - sometimes called curb chain - is built from oval links that twist slightly so each one sits flat against the next, interlocking edge to edge. It's one of the oldest and most recognisable chain constructions, valued for being strong and low-maintenance: the flattened links resist twisting in wear. We carry it in several lengths and link sizes, including a standard 16-inch anchor chain and a longer anchor design.
Box chain
Box chain uses square-profile links connected so each one forms a small cube, giving a chain that looks almost like a solid rod from a short distance but remains fully flexible. It's a dense, hard-wearing construction commonly used both on its own and as a base for pendants, since the square links won't easily snag a bail. We stock it from a fine 2mm single-line box chain up to heavier 2-line and 3-line constructions for a chunkier look.
Figaro chain
Figaro chain repeats a pattern of one or more short, rounder links followed by one longer, elongated oval link - traditionally described by the ratio, like "3+1" or "5+1." The rhythm this creates is figaro's signature: a visually broken-up, textured look rather than a uniform repeating link. We carry three ratios - 2+1, 3+1, and 5+1 - each giving a different density of that pattern.
Snake chain
Snake chain is built from small, closely fitted plates or links that form a smooth, rounded or flat tube with no visible individual links from a distance - hence the name. It's prized for how fluidly it drapes and moves, closer to a cord than a traditional link chain, though that same fine construction makes it less forgiving of sharp kinks than a coarser style. We stock a flat profile, a triangular cross-section, and a round Hyderabadi-style version.
Fox chain
Fox chain (sometimes called fox-tail chain) is a dense, woven-looking construction made from many small interlinked loops twisted tightly together, giving a thick, textured rope-like appearance despite being made of fine wire. It's heavier-looking than its actual weight per length usually suggests, which makes it a popular choice where a substantial look is wanted without the material cost of a solid-profile chain. Our range includes round, flat, and square cross-sections, plus a wider Hyderabadi flat version.
Rope chain
Rope chain takes small links and twists them in a spiral, mimicking the look of an actual twisted rope. Like fox chain, it reads as substantial and detailed while staying genuinely flexible. We carry it as a standard twist and as a rounder profile version.
Choosing between them for wholesale
None of these constructions is objectively "better" - the right one depends on what you're building. A pendant base usually wants a style with a smooth, snag-resistant profile (box or anchor); a standalone statement piece can lean into a fuller-looking construction like fox or rope; a fine, close-to-the-neck layering piece often calls for snake chain's smooth drape. Every style in our chains collection is genuine 925 sterling silver, sold by the length with weight quoted per run, priced against the day's silver rate, and with no fixed minimum order quantity. If you need a length, gauge or style variation that isn't listed, we also take custom chain orders to your own specification.