How To Make A Chain Longer

Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or anklet, you might be wondering how to get it extended if it’s not at the right length for your tastes! There are a few different methods to extend your jewelry, depending on your needs. Read on to learn more about how to make a chain longer.

Three Ways To Make A Chain Longer

A jeweler can extend your chain via three methods, depending on your item. Before they proceed, they’ll take a look at your piece to determine its style and structure.

1. Seamless extension: This option is only available for standard chains with definable links, such as a figaro chain or cable chain. Most chains are made out of standard jewelry materials such as sterling silver or gold at a width of 1-2 mm, and the jeweler can easily source a matching portion of chain to attach to the end of your item, extending it to your desired length. This method does not work with more intricate chains such as rope chains or byzantine chains, as the process of disassembling these chains and adding on a new portion will disrupt the chain’s pattern and potentially affect the integrity of the chain’s structure.
   
   

   These bits of gold chain can be used to extend a chain that matches in style.

2. Add-on extension: For chains that are very thin or incompatible with the seamless extension method, a jeweler can add on a portion of chain that does not match with the item’s existing chain. This part is added to the back next to the clasp, and is often intentionally designed to be wide-linked so that the wearer can adjust the length of the item by clipping the clasp at any point of the extension.
   
   

   A sterling silver bracelet with an add-on extension.

3. Custom extension: This method is used for very wide chains or elaborate pieces that have a special design. In order to extend thick chains such as curb chains or cuban chains, the jeweler may have to custom create new links and assemble them with the existing piece. They can do this by creating a 3D design based on the existing link, and 3D print out a wax mold for casting. Naturally, this is the most expensive extension option but it creates a seamless look for these unique designs.
   
   

   A 3D design used to extend the length of a Cuban chain necklace.

Adjustable Chains

An evil eye bracelet with a bolo clasp.

Depending on the item, the jeweler can accommodate requests to make the chain adjustable in length if you enjoy shortening or lengthening the item on a daily basis. The easiest way to do this is by utilizing the add-on extension method, but a jeweler can also add a bolo bead and a tab to your item if the chain allows for it. This allows you to avoid opening and closing a clasp, as you only have to hold onto the bead and pull the tab to adjust the length of the item. We recommend this conversion for individuals who have a hard time using regular lobster or jump rings or suffer from arthritis. 

Now you’re up to date on how to make a chain longer! If you have an item you’re looking to extend, comment below and we’ll help you out.

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