I've always loved jewelry, and recently, I wanted to get something special to commemorate the birth of my two sons. I decided on a silver chain necklace, with the idea of adding custom pendants later. I had a budget of around $500, and I started my search. It turned out to be a bit more involved than I initially thought!
The first thing I realized was that there are so many options! Different metals, different styles, different price points. It was overwhelming. I started by looking at sterling silver chains, as they seemed like a good balance of affordability and quality. But then I began to question if silver was really the best choice for everyday wear, given my active lifestyle.
I did some research on different metals. I found that stainless steel is the least expensive and doesn't tarnish. However, the finish is a bit dull. I learned that if I planned to wear the necklace often, sterling silver would be fine because the natural oils from my skin would prevent it from tarnishing as much. That was reassuring. I also considered waiting until I could afford a solid gold piece. That’s still a long-term goal, but for now, silver seemed like the most practical option.
Someone suggested looking at secondhand jewelry. I hadn't really thought about that. The idea of finding a pre-owned chain that still had a lot of life left in it was appealing, especially since it could potentially save me some money. I started browsing some online marketplaces and auction sites, and I was surprised at the variety of options available. It's definitely something I'll keep in mind for future jewelry purchases.
The whole tarnishing thing was a bit of a concern for me. I’m not the most diligent when it comes to jewelry care. I discovered that wearing sterling silver actually helps prevent it from tarnishing. The constant contact with your skin helps keep it clean and shiny. So, that solidified my decision to go with silver.
While searching, I stumbled upon something completely different that really caught my eye. It wasn't a traditional silver chain, but it was unique and beautiful. It was a handmade leather necklace with semi-precious stones. Specifically, I was drawn to a Handmade Leather Necklace with a pink crystal from Blingcharming. I thought it would be a great way to add a pop of color and personality to my everyday look. It wasn’t exactly what I initially set out to find, but sometimes, the best discoveries are unexpected.

The leather is soft and comfortable to wear, and the pink crystal adds a touch of elegance. I’ve gotten so many compliments on it! It’s definitely become one of my favorite pieces.
Based on my experience, here are a few things to consider when choosing a silver chain necklace (or any necklace, really):