Necklet vs. Necklace — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on December 25, 2023
A necklet is a small, often delicate piece of jewelry worn around the neck, while a necklace is a broader term for any ornamental chain or string of beads, gems, or links worn around the neck.
Difference Between Necklet and Necklace
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A necklet, typically dainty and lightweight, is designed to adorn the neck subtly, often used as a term for more delicate, less conspicuous jewelry. In contrast, a necklace can range from simple chains to elaborate pieces, encompassing a wide variety of styles and sizes worn around the neck.
The term necklet often implies a level of elegance and understatement, suitable for both casual and formal attire. Necklaces, however, can be statement pieces or simple accessories, versatile in their use across different fashion contexts.
In terms of design, necklets are usually shorter in length and can consist of a simple chain or a small pendant. Necklaces, on the other hand, vary greatly in length, from chokers to long strands, and can include multiple layers, large pendants, or intricate patterns.
When it comes to occasions, a necklet is often chosen for its subtlety and ease of pairing with other jewelry. Necklaces can be selected to make a bold statement, to complement an outfit, or as a centerpiece of an ensemble.
In jewelry terminology, a necklet is a specific subset of necklaces, distinguished mainly by its size and simplicity. A necklace is a more general term that includes a wide array of designs, from the simplest chain to complex, ornate pieces.
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Comparison Chart
Size
Smaller, more delicate
Can range from small to large
Design Complexity
Typically simple and elegant
Varies from simple to highly elaborate
Length
Usually shorter
Varies greatly, from chokers to long strands
Occasion Suitability
Often chosen for subtlety
Suitable for making bold statements or everyday wear
Style Variation
Limited variation, focusing on elegance
Wide variation, from minimalistic to ornate
Compare with Definitions
Necklet
A fine chain or band worn as a necklace.
His gift to her was a gold necklet with a tiny heart pendant.
Necklace
An ornamental chain or string of beads, gems, or links worn around the neck.
She adorned her outfit with a colorful beaded necklace.
Necklet
An elegant, understated necklace.
The diamond necklet added just the right touch of sophistication.
Necklace
A piece of jewelry that hangs around the neck.
The antique necklace was a family heirloom.
Necklet
A small, delicate piece of jewelry worn around the neck.
She wore a silver necklet with her evening gown.
Necklace
A statement piece of jewelry worn around the neck.
Her bold necklace was the centerpiece of her ensemble.
Necklet
A lightweight necklace, suitable for everyday wear.
Her favorite necklet was a simple gold chain she wore daily.
Necklace
A decorative chain or series of connected ornaments worn for personal adornment.
He gifted her a necklace studded with sapphires.
Necklet
A subtle piece of neck jewelry, often with a single pendant.
For her wedding, she chose a pearl necklet to match her dress.
Necklace
A versatile accessory, varying in length and style.
For the party, she chose a long, layered necklace.
Necklet
A necklet is a type of decoration which is designed to be worn and displayed around a person's neck, rather than hung (draped) from the chest as is the standard practice for displaying most decorations. In the Middle Ages most order's insignias were worn on a collar – see livery collar.
Necklace
A necklace is an article of jewellery that is worn around the neck. Necklaces may have been one of the earliest types of adornment worn by humans.
Necklet
A fairly close-fitting and typically rigid ornament worn around the neck.
Necklace
An ornamental chain or string of beads, jewels, or links worn round the neck
The harbour with its necklace of lights
A diamond necklace
Necklet
A necklace.
Necklace
(in South Africa) a tyre doused or filled with petrol, placed round a victim's neck and set alight.
Necklet
A type of ornament worn tightly about the neck.
Necklace
(in South Africa) kill (someone) with a tyre necklace.
Necklet
A necklace.
Necklace
An ornament worn around the neck.
Necklet
Decoration worn about the neck (fur piece or tight necklace) as an ornament
Necklace
Something felt to resemble this neck ornament, as in shape
A necklace of hundreds of tiny islands.
Necklace
An article of jewelry that is worn around the neck, most often made of a string of precious metal, pearls, gems, beads or shells, and sometimes having a pendant attached.
Necklace
(figuratively) Anything resembling a necklace in shape.
A necklace of coral islands
Necklace
(South Africa) A device used in necklacing (an informal execution); a rubber tyre that is filled with petrol. It is placed around the victim's chest and arms, and set on fire.
Necklace
(South Africa) To informally execute by necklacing; by setting on fire a petrol-filled rubber tyre which has been put around the bound victim's neck.
Necklace
A string of beads, etc., or any continuous band or chain, worn around the neck as an ornament.
Necklace
A rope or chain fitted around the masthead to hold hanging blocks for jibs and stays.
Necklace
Jewelry consisting of a cord or chain (often bearing gems) worn about the neck as an ornament (especially by women)
Common Curiosities
Can necklaces be made of different materials?
Yes, necklaces can be made from a variety of materials including metals, beads, gems, and even fabric.
Can men wear necklets and necklaces?
Yes, both necklets and necklaces are for both genders and can be worn by anyone.
Is a necklet always smaller than a necklace?
Typically, yes. Necklets are generally smaller and more delicate compared to necklaces.
Is a necklet a good option for daily wear?
Yes, due to their simplicity and light weight, necklets are great for everyday wear.
Are necklets more expensive than necklaces?
Not necessarily. The price depends on the materials and craftsmanship, not the classification as a necklet or necklace.
Can a necklace be a statement piece?
Absolutely, many necklaces are designed to be statement pieces, adding a focal point to an outfit.
Can a necklet be part of a necklace set?
Yes, a necklet can be part of a matching jewelry set that includes other pieces.
Are chokers considered necklaces or necklets?
Chokers are a type of necklace. They might be considered a necklet if they are particularly delicate or simple.
Are necklets suitable for formal occasions?
Yes, necklets are often chosen for formal occasions due to their elegance and subtlety.
Can necklaces be layered with other neck jewelry?
Yes, necklaces, especially longer ones, are often layered for a more dynamic look.
How do I choose between a necklet and a necklace?
Consider the occasion, your outfit, and whether you want a subtle or bold accessory.
Is there a specific length that defines a necklet?
There's no strict length definition, but necklets are generally shorter and sit close to the base of the neck.
Can both necklets and necklaces feature pendants?
Yes, both can feature pendants, though those on necklets are usually smaller and more understated.
Are necklets trending in contemporary fashion?
Yes, necklets are popular in contemporary fashion, particularly for their elegant and minimalistic appeal.
Is it appropriate to wear a necklet with other necklaces?
Absolutely, a necklet can be tastefully paired with other necklaces for a layered effect.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
