9ct Yellow Gold Hollow Diamond-Cut Rope Chain 2.18mm 45cm

A rope chain is built from links set in a continuous spiral, two strands winding around each other in the manner of laid rope. This one is hollow: the strands are formed from tube rather than solid wire, so the chain achieves a wide, substantial look at a fraction of the metal weight.

This piece is 9ct yellow gold, 2.18 mm across the nominal width and 45 cm long, weighing approximately 2 g — hollow-formed to keep the weight down. The spiral construction throws light from every angle as it moves, which is why rope reads brighter than a flat chain of comparable width.

Will this suit me?

• Where it sits: At 45 cm it sits on the collarbone: the most common length for a pendant and a safe choice for a gift. On a larger neck it sits closer to the throat, so if it's for a man, 50 cm is the usual starting point.
• How it looks: At 2.18 mm it has real presence: enough to be worn on its own without looking heavy. It weighs about 2 g. The twisted spiral catches the light from every angle.
• With a pendant: Carries heavier pendants, including those with a wide bail. Most people wear this pattern without a pendant, so the links stay on show.
• Everyday wear: 9ct is the harder alloy and stands up well to daily wear. Hollow construction keeps it light for its size, but the thin walls dent if crushed, and a dented link usually can't be restored. Take it off to sleep and for sport.
• Finding your length: Measure a chain you already own from end to end, clasp included, or run a piece of string around your neck to where you'd like it to sit. Our sizing guide has more help.
• Other options: Length: 50 cm. Metal: 18ct yellow gold. Width: 2.72 mm. Matching bracelet: 19 cm.

Specification

• Metal: 9ct yellow gold (375)
• Style: Hollow diamond-cut rope chain
• Construction: Hollow section
• Nominal width: 2.18 mm
• Nominal length: 45 cm (450 mm)
• Approximate weight: 2 g
• Finish: Diamond-cut and polished
• Worn as: Necklace or pendant chain

9ct yellow gold is 375 parts per thousand fine gold. The higher alloy content makes it hard and more scratch-resistant than 18ct, which is why it's always been the popular choice for everyday wear.

Servicing. Hollow construction is the trade-off. The tube walls are thin, so a hollow rope chain cannot usually be resized or soldered without the section collapsing, and a crushed link generally cannot be brought back. Worth knowing before you buy.

Weights are supplier figures and are approximate; small variation between individual pieces is normal in chain manufacture.