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    35 Dainty Necklaces You'll Love To Layer Or Wear Solo

    Because those chunky statement necklaces you bought in 2013 could use a break.

    1. A paperclip chain and initial pendant set you can layer together for more of a statement piece, or wear separately on days when you want to keep it minimal. Either way, it'll be hard to get sick of this cute accessory, since it's all about ~you~ (or should I say "U"?).

    a model wearing a gold paperclip chain necklace and a gold initial pendant necklace with the letter
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I absolutely love this set. It is a great value, quality pieces, adjustable length and has a versatile two sided pendant. I rarely wear them separately because they really compliment each other. I do wear the choker if if I only wear one. I have had this for a while and it is holding up well considering it gold tone." –Mj

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in all 26 letters and in three finishes). 

    2. A tiny opal choker by Benevolence Los Angeles that'll help provide sustainable water in Africa, making it a powerful, charitable, and downright adorable addition to your jewelry collection. 

    reviewer photo of them holding a black box with a gold and opal-pendant choker necklace in it
    reviewer photo of them wearing an opal choker

    Benevolence Los Angeles gives back to a group in need by way of nonprofits with every purchase of one of their products – from their iconic soy candles and beyond. With each purchase of this necklace, they promise to contribute $5 toward a sustainable water system in Africa through their charity partner Water Mission.

    Promising review: "I wore it for like three months straight and did not want to take it off!!! I think it looks so great. It brings attention to your pearly whites and to the sclera part of your eyes. It doesn't tangle easily and the Little Rock is nice and dainty. I really love what the company stands for so when I wear this choker I feel extra special. I would definitely recommend this to a friend or sister!" —Lion Rose Music

    Get it from Amazon for $19.99.

    3. Fruit Basket Choker from Girls Crew complete with lil' strawberry, cherry, grape, peach, and apple charms (🎶yummy yummy🎶). For anyone looking to pay tribute to Harry Styles' discography, you're three-fifths of the way there!

    a model wearing a gold necklace with five fruit charms on it
    a hand holding a gold necklace with five fruit charms on it
    Girls Crew, @shopgirlscrew / Via www.instagram.com

    Girls Crew is a small biz in LA that makes fun, unique, and dainty jewelry. Check out their full Fruit & Sweets collection to see some more of their yummy designs. 

    Promising review: "I got the necklace and bracelet from this set and wear them all the time. They are beautiful. Gotten the jewelry wet and there’s been no damage." –Olivia K.

    Get it from Girls Crew for $68 (available in three finishes).

    4. raw crystal pendant necklace with a dainty design that's so much better than having a straight-up huge rock dangling from your neck (and way prettier, too).

    seven gold necklaces each with a different raw crystal pendant on them
    Delezhen / Etsy

    Delezhen is a Boston-based small business that makes personalized gemstone jewelry.

    Promising reviews: "Love this piece. It is simple but so beautiful. I really enjoy wearing it! Shipping was fast and the item is quality." –Havalyn Foley

    "Absolutely gorgeous. Haven't taken it off since it came out of the box. Will be back for sure!!" –Amy

    Get it from Delezhen on Etsy for $34+ (available in three chain metals, five lengths, and 45 crystals). 

    5. A ~lovely~ heart necklace you can give as a gift to someone who makes the ol' ticker tick, or as a self-love write-off.

    a model wearing a silver heart necklace
    a gold heart necklace
    Amazon

    Promising review: "My girls love their necklaces and wear them when we go out as a family. Super dainty and a nice length for my little one and big one." –goldsaura

    Get it from Amazon for $12.95 (available in two finishes and with initial engravings). 

    6. An OXB disco chain available in nonirritating sterling silver or gold-filled designs, all in the name of being sweat-proof! No need to fret if you forget to take this lil' number off before your trek up the StairMaster – it won't tarnish, fade, or leave your skin with a funky green tint.

    a gold necklace with small circles
    a model wearing a gold choker with small circles on it, showing that it's sweat-proof
    model wearing three gold necklaces
    Oxb, Oxb

    Oxb is a woman-founded small business that makes durable and beautiful jewelry for active lifestyles. And if you're looking for more jewelry from woman-owned small businesses or stylish things for sweaty peeps, we've got you covered!

    BuzzFeed editor Abby Kass loves this chain! She raves:

    "I recently treated myself to this handmade necklace from the woman-founded small company, and I love it so much. I love wearing simple chains but found it annoying that I would have to remember to take them off before I did a workout or even showered. I've worn this chain (along with the satellite chain) for the past week, and so far they have held up great. I've done a number of workouts with them, and they don't get in my way at all. I love that the necklaces are simple enough that I can wear them with everything (including sweats), but they add an interesting detail. I like how this disco chain looks as the light hits it. It's really cool! I'm already eyeing more necklaces from the site to add to my collection." 

    Get it from Oxb for $72+ (available in gold-filled or sterling silver and 14 lengths).

    7. A moon and star necklace with a comfortable 18-inch chain for anyone whose accessory lineup is lacking some celestial bling. 

     model wearing a gold moon and star necklace
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This is a beautiful, dainty necklace. The moon and stars are just the right size and it’s very pretty." –Dana Bray

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 12 styles). 

    8. A timeless string of freshwater pearls because elegant pieces don't have to be reserved for special occasions. This necklace is dainty enough to be worn while you're out with friends, in the office, or any other random day when you're feeling particularly ~classy~.

    a string of small freshwater pearls
    gif of a model wearing a small string of pearls layered with a dainty gold necklace
    Mejuri

    Mejuri is a South Asian woman-owned business based in Toronto. One of the many great things about the brand is that they ethically-source their materials and offer high-quality pieces at a fair price. This pearl necklace has an estimated retail value of $250, which is more than triple what you can get it for at Mejuri. You can read more about them in our roundup of cool fashion brands to keep on your radar

    Promising review: "This is a very beautiful necklace that I can wear alone or pair with other necklaces! I love it so much!" –Catherine Y.

    Get it from Mejuri for $78.

    9. Or this super cute freshwater pearl daisy choker if you love the look of pearls but don't want to commit to a full string of 'em. Bonus points: you can still *clutch* these whenever you hear something scandalous. 

    model wearing a freshwater pearl daisy choker
    a freshwater pearl daisy choker with a gold chain
    Madewell

    Promising review: "I love this daisy pearl necklace. It is so delicate and a nice take on the beaded daisy trend, only a more elevated style. The length fits perfectly. It goes well with casual tops or dresses....giving that special, cool addition that Madewell does so well. It is very well-made in my opinion. I really love it! It's one of my fav new pieces of jewelry..." –NCGIRL37

    Get it from Madewell for $32.

    10. A boo-tiful ghost necklace, just in time for spooky season (though I grant you full permission to wear ghostly jewelry outside of October). 

    a model holding a gold ghost necklace pendant
    Necklace Dream World / Etsy

    Necklace Dream World is a small Etsy boutique that hand-makes personalized dainty jewelry. 

    Promising review: "If you love dainty jewelry then this necklace is perfect for you! I got the 18-inch chain and it hits perfectly on my neckline where it will still show when wearing tops." –Devin S.

    Get it from Necklace Dream World on Etsy for $18.59+ (available in 15 lengths, three finishes, and with the option to add charms).

    11. A delicate satellite chain ideal for layering or sporting solo, since it makes the perfect finishing touch to your OOTDs.

    a close-up of a model wearing a gold satellite chain
    a model wearing a gold satellite chain with a white tank top
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Wear it all the time for any occasion. It’s super cute and dainty and it hasn’t tarnished at all!" –Amanda

    Get it from Amazon for $8.49+ (available in 12 varieties). 

    12. A gorgeous flower pendant necklace that'll elegantly elevate any look by adding just the right amount of *twinkle*. Reviewers love it for special occasions like weddings and holidays, since it adds a little fancy flair. 

    a model wearing a necklace with a thin gold chain and a tiny lotus pendant
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I wore this on Valentines Day and my family and boyfriend really liked it. I think it is a super cute and dainty way to accessorize without going too crazy. It is good quality and I think it will last me for a very long time! I would recommend this to many people." –natalie borowy

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in 19 styles). 

    13. A Connell Chain from Cratfd London for anyone whose favorite part of Sally Rooney's Normal People was the (for the most part) unproblematic king Connell Waldron (and his ability to accessorize!).

    a model wearing a silver chain necklace and a black shirt
    Craftd London

    Promising review: "Really love it. Very durable and good material – I wear it every day." –Jair F.

    Get it in silver or gold from Craftd London for $44.99+ (available in three lengths).

    And if you're looking for a laugh, check out my fellow BuzzFeeder Allison Jiang's ranking of insufferable Sally Rooney characters (she...didn't lie).

    14. Or this stunning Very Valentino Petite Necklace from Oradina, which is made from 10-karat solid gold that truly ✨sparkles✨. Not to worry – its dainty silhouette is as far away from gaudy as it can get on the "Will this chain make me look like I'm auditioning for a mobster movie?" spectrum.

    a model wearing a thing gold chain necklace
    Oradina

    Promising review: "I love this necklace!!! Wore it for weeks without taking it off. Very strong. Very pretty and lots of sparkle. I read that 10-karat gold is a bit more hardy than 14-karat. I ordered the 18" and wear it layered either with a 20” or 22” chain and it always looks great." –Steffany H.

    Get it from Oradina for $135+ (available in four lengths). 

    15. A sterling silver dangling kitty necklace because in a world full of dog people, you have to find ways to show your support for the feline community, loud and proud (and meowed).

    a close up of a shiny silver cat pendant
    model wearing a matte silver cat pendant necklace
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I purchased the matte silver cat and it's beautiful. Something a little different to stand out from all my other sterling jewelry. I love the fact that the sterling chain is adjustable – perfect. The gift packaging was excellent, very gift-able and shipping was super fast. Happy with purchase and will order again." –Carla B

    Get it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in two finishes).

    16. An adorably fun beaded and faux pearl necklace here to add some playful pops of colorful (with a classic twist) to your usual jewelry roundup.

    a necklace with half of the string in faux pearls and the other half in colorful beads
    a model wearing a half pearl/half beaded necklace
    We Are Chimmi

    We Are Chimmi, which stands for "We Are Children of Immigrants," is an Asian-owned small business and community-building platform that celebrates immigrants. They donate 10% of their sales profits to organizations that support immigrants and other marginalized groups (they're currently donating to Apex for Youth and It Gets Better). 

    Get it from We Are Chimmi for $18.

    17. A set of gold-plated layering necklaces that come in so many different styles for you to mix and match to your heart's content.

    reviewer photo of them wearing a set of gold layered necklaces, one with a circle pendant
    reviewer photo of them wearing a set of gold layered necklaces, one with a lock pendant

    Promising review: "This dainty necklace was PERFECT for my sister's wedding. You can dress this necklace up or you can dress it down. Oftentimes I catch myself wearing the two necklaces as individual pieces instead of together. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a small dainty necklace!" –Analia 

    Get a set from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 26 varieties).

    18. A striking gemstone pendant necklace each with their own unique symbol because you're less inclined to wear you heart on their sleeve and more inclined to convey your deepest feelings and characteristics through cryptic symbolism. 

    nine gemstone pendant necklaces with gold chains and different symbols on them
    Jill Makes / Etsy

    Jill Makes is a woman-owned small business that specializes in unique and upbeat handmade jewelry.

    Promising review: "Beautiful design, super dainty and detailed. Love the shiny and sparkly finish. I wear it almost daily and it hasn't tarnished or diminished in any way." –Tinuviel Tolkein

    Get it from Jill Makes on Etsy for $45 (available in nine gemstone/symbol combinations and four lengths). 

    19. A long bar pendant necklace because there is such a thing as a dainty statement necklace. This one has a barely-there look and feel, but will still bring the shimmer and shine you want in an everyday accessory.

    reviewer photo of them wearing a long silver bar necklace
    reviewer photo of a silver bar pendant necklace

    Promising review: "I wanted a long but dainty necklace for summertime tank tops and I'm very happy with the purchase! I like that it's not bulky. The chain seems to be of good quality, considering the price I paid and seller even included a gold one for free! Very satisfied with the purchase and I highly recommend!" –Tracey

    Get it from Amazon for $7.19+ (available in two finishes and in multipacks). 

    20. A herringbone snake chain that'll lend 🐍it-sss-self🐍 to a stack of your favorite necklaces but still provide enough *oomph* when you wear it on its own.

    a gold herringbone snake chain
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This necklace fits perfectly on your neck. It's slim and supple. The woven texture doesn't hang down but more so flows across your skin. This chain makes any outfit gleam. This necklace matches existing jewelry and will go with any piece you add to it. Amazing price and I love that it doesn't bother my neck, which 99% of necklaces do." –¤♤♡◇♧□○°

    Get it from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in 24 styles and bundles). 

    21. constellation necklace because even if you're not a Taurus or Libra, you're still allowed to indulge in the ~finer things~ in life once in a while, like dainty glittery jewelry and the coolest fashion trends.

    hand holding the necklace
    ElegantSwan / Etsy

    Elegant Swan is a small online jewelry boutique based in Virginia.

    Promising review: "Perfect if you’re looking for a light and delicate piece!" –Vanessa Salter

    Get it from Elegant Swan on Etsy for $27.75 (available in all 12 signs, three finishes, and different lengths). 

    22. gold-plated square malachite necklace whose delicate silhouette still makes a statement with its brilliant green pendant. 

    a model wearing a gold chain necklace and a gold necklace with a green square pendant
    a gold chain necklace with a green square pendant
    Missoma

    Get it from Missoma for $123.

    23. A mini locket necklace to keep your family, friends, and fur babies *literally* close to your heart at all times. You could also fill your locket with a mini photo of other things that are important to you, like places, quotes, celebrity crushes – whatever!

    a model wearing the small and large locket sizes
    an open locket with a photo of a dog and kids
    Made By Mary

    Made By Mary is a woman-owned small biz that hand-makes beautiful and personalizable jewelry.

    Promising review: "This locket is perfect. I’ve been looking for a locket for sometime now but they all seemed so big. I love the size of this locket, it’s so dainty and my picture fits perfectly." —Laurie P.

    Get it from Made By Mary for $102+ (available in two sizes and in gold filled and sterling silver). 

    24. A sparkly Kendra Scott pendant necklace versatile enough to wear with your dressiest looks and your more laid-back styles. Plus, it comes in tons of stone and chain color combinations, so your options are truly limitless. 

    a model wearing a gold chain necklace with a white stone pendant
    reviewer photo of them holding a rhodium chain necklace with a black stone pendant
    reviewer photo of them wearing a necklace with a sparkly white pendant

    Promising review: "This is my favorite necklace – I never take it off. I have worn it to the beach and it hasn’t tarnished. I wear it in the shower and to bed and it still looks brand new." –Cambell Hunt

    Get it from Amazon for $65+ (available in 29 styles).

    BTW, this is a piece of jewelry that the BuzzFeed Shopping team can't stop raving about!

    25. A sustainably made Pavoi rose gold chain that'll be your go-to accessory on days when you want to add a pretty pop of somethin'-somethin' to your look without it being flashy-flashy. 

    a rose gold chain necklace laying on two pink boxes
    a model wearing a rose gold chain necklace
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I literally wear this like everyday. It’s simple and gorgeous. Looks way more expensive than it is! It’s definitely a staple piece!" –Tiffany

    Get it from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in four finishes and 15 styles).

    And if you want to dress up your look even more, try pairing it with some hoop earrings or splurge-worthy style pieces to add some more pizzazz!

    26. Herkimer diamond necklace, whose dazzling salt and pepper quartz centerpiece hails all the way from Herkimer, New York which, funnily enough, is also the state where "Push It!" icons Salt-N-Pepa hail from. Coincidence? I think not.🧂

    a herkimer diamond pendant necklace with a gold chain
    model wearing a herkimer diamond pendant necklace necklace
    Seaflowerjewelry / Etsy

    Seaflowerjewelry is a Texas-based and woman-owned small biz that hand-makes dainty crystal jewelry. 

    Promising review: "I love this necklace, it matches everything. My new go-to! 💛" –omystarisfading

    Get it from Seaflowerjewelry on Etsy for $40.50+ (available in two colors and three lengths). 

    27. Or a Bezel-Set Diamond Drop Necklace from Nyrelle made with real 0.06-carat diamonds for an understated yet elegant addition to the "fancy pants" section of your jewelry collection.

    a model wearing two bezel-set diamond necklaces, rings, and earrings
    a gold necklace with three bezel-set diamonds
    Nyrelle

    Promising review: "I bought one of these lovely necklaces for myself, and another for my mother and sister! A perfect layering piece or sparkle to elevate any mood or outfit." –Erin L.

    Get it from Nyrelle for $205+ (available in 9-karat or 18-karat gold settings and three colors). 

    28. A darling gold-filled birth flower pendant necklace you'll want to snag for yourself and everyone else in your life. Birthday presents from here unto eternity: secured. 

    several gold birth flower pendant neckalces
    Goldn Blonde / Etsy

    Goldn Blonde is a small Etsy boutique that specializes in waterproof and tarnish-proof gold jewelry.

    Promising review: "I ordered the July necklace for a gift, and it definitely exceeded my expectations. The shipping was quick, the packaging was very cute, and the necklace itself is just lovely. I might have to get one for myself!" –Megan Karzen

    Get it from Goldn Blonde on Etsy for $18.83+ (available in all 12 months and 10 lengths). 

    29. A lil' circle pendant necklace that'll compliment even the most minimal of minimalist ensembles.

    three circle pendant necklaces in yellow gold, rose gold, and silver
    a model wearing a yellow gold circle pendant necklace
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I love this necklace! Just what I wanted! It is dainty, but not a weak chain. I wear it alone or layer it with other jewelry...either way, it is classy. I love the way the light reflects off of it. I also like the way there is a built-in extension to the chain so when I am layering it, I wear it a bit tighter than when I wear it alone." —burkehart

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in three colors).

    30. A handcrafted lifeline necklace you can give as a gift to show just how much you love someone, or as a gift to yourself since, you know, you also have a heartbeat (I can only assume). 

    a gold lifeline necklace
    Hyperbole Accessories

    Hyperbole Accessories is a BIPOC- and Asian-owned small business based in California that offers a wide range of beautiful and unique jewelry, all handcrafted by artisans in India. 

    Get it from Hyperbole Accessories for $35.

    31. A long drop necklace because finding a perfect accessory for your plunging V-necks isn't just a pipe dream.

    a model wearing a long drop necklace and a white blouse
    Amazon

    Promising review: "Hands-down, my favorite necklace. It looks amazing with a deep neckline. Perfect for a date or just going out. It's a beautiful gift and the style is classy while still being on trend." –Ducks Fan

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 13 styles). 

    32. A classic tennis necklace that only gives the illusion of dazzling diamonds, and for a literal fraction of the price. The cubic zirconia stones are plated in 18-karat gold that'll bring the sparkle without all of the cha-ching!

    a tennis necklace
    a model wearing a tennis necklace
    BaubleBar

    Get it from BaubleBar for $128.

    33. birthstone and initial necklace for something that's totally and completely unique to you (and for taste in dainty jewelry). Whether you camouflage it in some layers or rock it solo, this necklace is a surefire conversation piece. 

    a model wearing a gold chain necklace with
    Amazon

    To customize, click the "Customize & Add To Cart" button to choose your metal finish, chain length, letter charms, and more.

    Promising reviews: "Absolutely exquisite! I ordered this lovely necklace for my daughter. The communication with the designer was fabulous and the piece is exactly what I hoped it would be. It's special and unique and perfect for every day. I added a diamond and it's perfect. Can't say enough about it." —Fern D.

    Get it from Amazon for $131+ (available in various customization options). Be sure to clip the coupon before checkout to save an additional 5%.

    34. Or a trendy initial charm necklace by Frasier Sterling that houses up to nine letters and functions as the Gen-Z take on Carrie Bradshaw's "Carrie" necklace. 

    a model wearing a gold initial necklace with charms that spell
    a model wearing a gold initial necklace with charms that spell
    Frasier Sterling

    Frasier Sterling is a woman-owned accessory brand that specializes in personalized and unique jewelry.

    Promising review: "The best necklace purchase I’ve ever made. It’s so cute and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments. I like how adjustable it is because I can make it longer or shorter depending on my shirt. It does take a while to ship since it’s custom but totally worth it!" —Yun H.

    Get it from Frasier Sterling for $53.

    35. A simple cubic zirconia pendant necklace you'll cherish for years to come, since it's a timeless style made out of nonirritating and budget-friendly gold plating or vermeil.

    reviewer photo of their gold chain and cubic zirconia pendant necklace
    reviewer photo of them wearing the pendant necklace on their wedding day

    Promising review: "This is such a beautiful necklace, not a choker, but short – absolutely perfect! Everyone thinks it’s a real diamond! Hasn’t faded and doesn’t turn your neck colors. Definitely recommend getting this!!!" –Tiffany Nicole

    Get it from Amazon for $12.95 (available in three colors and two finishes). 

    Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!

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    Reviews for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.