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Chain Necklace

Chain Necklace

Last updated:

B

76 / 100

ProductScore

$195
Necklaces Everyday layering chainGender-neutral gold necklaceMinimalist jewelry wardrobe staple

Materials: Solid 14K yellow gold; cable chain link

View on Automic Gold →
B

The Verdict

Automic Gold's Chain Necklace earns a B ProductScore of 76/100 — a solid 14K gold everyday chain at a fair DTC price point. The simple design and inclusive ethos make it a reliable staple, though the limited length options and single gold color hold it back from top marks.

Score Breakdown

Quality 30/40
Value 26/35
Style 20/25

What Customers Say

Based on 920 mentions across social media and review platforms

The Chain Necklace gets steady mentions as a reliable everyday piece in LGBTQ+ and fashion-forward communities. Reviewers appreciate the solid gold construction and find it pairs well with pendants. Some wish for more length and metal color options.

"This chain is my daily driver. Solid gold, never take it off, never turns green or fades. Exactly what a chain should be."

Reddit r/jewelry

"Good chain but I wish they had a 20-inch option. The 18-inch sits right at my collarbone which isn't where I wanted it."

Google Reviews

"Bought this for layering with a pendant from another brand. Works perfectly. The links are small and clean."

Reddit r/malefashionadvice

"For $195 you're getting real 14K gold. I compared with Mejuri's chains and the quality is comparable. Brand ethos tipped the scale for me."

Trustpilot

"The clasp is fine but nothing special. Could use a more secure lobster claw at this price point."

Google Reviews

Pros & Cons

Strengths

  • + Solid 14K gold construction that won't tarnish, fade, or irritate skin
  • + Clean cable link design that works solo or layered with pendants
  • + Lightweight enough for comfortable all-day and overnight wear
  • + Gender-neutral styling from a queer-owned brand
  • + Competitive DTC pricing for solid gold chain

Trade-offs

  • Limited to one or two length options — no custom sizing
  • Only available in yellow gold
  • Standard spring ring clasp rather than a more secure lobster claw
  • Thinner chain may not suit those who prefer a chunkier look

Specifications

Metal Solid 14K yellow gold
Style Cable chain link
Width 1.3mm
Lengths 16-inch and 18-inch
Clasp Spring ring
Care Safe for daily wear including water

Alternatives to Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Automic Gold Chain Necklace real gold or plated?
The Chain Necklace is solid 14K yellow gold — not plated, filled, or vermeil. Every component including the chain links and clasp is 14-karat gold. It will not tarnish or reveal a base metal with wear.
Can I shower with the Automic Gold Chain Necklace?
Yes. Solid 14K gold is fully waterproof. Daily showering, swimming in fresh water, and regular hand-washing will not damage the necklace. Avoid prolonged chlorine or saltwater exposure to maintain the finish.
What length should I choose for the Automic Gold Chain Necklace?
The 16-inch length sits at the base of the neck for a choker-adjacent fit. The 18-inch falls just below the collarbone and is the most popular choice for everyday wear. Consider your neckline and whether you plan to layer with other pieces.

Full Review

Automic Gold’s Chain Necklace strips the concept down to essentials: solid 14K gold links, a clean cable pattern, and nothing else. In a market flooded with gold-plated chains marketed as “fine jewelry,” this straightforward approach is refreshing.

Design & Craftsmanship

The cable chain link is a classic choice — understated, versatile, and resistant to kinking. At 1.3mm wide, it reads as delicate without feeling fragile. The links are evenly formed and the finish is consistently polished, with no rough spots or visible manufacturing artifacts.

The chain hangs with a natural drape that flatters both open necklines and crew necks. It’s thin enough to sit under a shirt collar without creating bulk, making it genuinely wearable in professional settings where flashier chains might draw unwanted attention.

Value Proposition

At $195 for solid 14K gold, the Chain Necklace occupies the lower end of Automic Gold’s pricing. Comparable solid gold chains from Mejuri run $175-250 depending on length and style, while traditional jewelers typically start at $300+. The value is real, though the limited length options mean you may not get exactly the fit you’re after.

The Wear Test

This is a set-it-and-forget-it piece. Long-term wearers report zero tarnishing, zero skin irritation, and no visible wear after months of continuous use including sleeping and showering. The spring ring clasp is the weakest link (literally) — it functions fine but lacks the satisfying snap and security of a lobster claw closure.

Who Should Buy This

The Chain Necklace is for anyone building a capsule jewelry collection who wants a reliable gold chain they never have to think about. It’s particularly strong as a layering base or a pendant chain. If you want something with more visual presence, look at chunkier options — this chain is about quiet, consistent quality.

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