Figaro Chain Guide: Definition, Styles, and How to Wear It

Why the Figaro Chain Belongs in Every Jewelry Collection

Figaro chains are some of the most distinct chain styles, with a design pattern that stands out among other necklaces. The link pattern isn’t uniform across the entire chain, but still works to create its own cohesive look. Here’s the GLD breakdown of what Figaro chains are, which works best for you, and how to style them.

What Is a Figaro Chain?

A Figaro chain is a flattened necklace designed with a segmented pattern of three circular links followed by one oval link throughout its entire length. That alternating link pattern gives it a distinctly recognizable look, which varies depending on the materials, widths, and lengths.

Where Did Figaro Chains Come From?

Figaro chains originated in Italy, and the name is widely considered to be derived from two operas, The Marriage of Figaro and The Barber of Seville, where there is a character named Figaro. They date back to the mid-18th century, and are closely associated with the Riccardi family, one of the most notable families of goldsmiths and jewelers.

How Did Figaro Chains Become Popular?

Figaro chains made their way to America through Italian immigrants in the 19th century, and they were popularized by both drug dealer culture and the emerging hip-hop scene in the 80s and 90s. Prodigy wore thick Figaro chains with large pendants and they contributed to Deion Sanders’ iconic style when he wore them all the time in the 90s. They’re still one of the most diverse styles of chains today, where you can see both elderly grandparents and young fashion influencers rocking the same chains in their own unique ways.

What is the difference between Figaro, Cuban Link, Curb, and Rope Chains?

The difference between Figaro, Cuban link, curb, and rope chains is the link pattern. Figaros have an alternating pattern of 3 short links to 1 longer link, Cuban links have thick interlocking round links, curb chains have flat interlocking uniform links that lay flat on the skin, and rope chains have twisted links that create a spiral texture.

How to Style a Figaro Chain

The beauty of Figaro chains is their versatility. They can be worn by anyone, young or elderly, flashy or minimalistic, and simply depend on how you choose to express yourself. For an everyday option, we recommend going with the 4mm 20-inch yellow gold Figaro. The most subtle option is the 2mm in white gold. If you’re looking for the chain to be the main focal point of your fit, go for a 6mm diamond Figaro, 9mm, or 10mm. In the following section, we provide detailed breakdowns of how to choose what works best for you.

How to Choose Your Figaro Chain: Materials and Finishes

Making the right decision when getting a Figaro chain depends on a few factors. For starters, the material it's made of is directly correlated with how you want the chain to look. GLD offers many options, including yellow and white gold platings, as well as 10k and 14k solid gold options.

Material guide:

There are several color options when considering the finish of your necklace. GLD’s team has designed rose gold, black rhodium, yellow gold, and white gold options that each pair well with different styles. Here’s a guide to what each finish is best for and what to pair it with.

Color finish guide:

How to Choose Your Figaro Chain Length and Width

Once you decide on the color and finish, you then need to choose the right length of your Figaro chain. You can go with something really short and tight like a 16-inch necklace, or a 30-inch that hangs low by your stomach. This also determines how good it looks with your fit and whether a pendant makes sense with the chain or not. Check out this guide below to help you decide what length works best for you. For a more in-depth breakdown, check out our guide on how to choose the best chain length.

The final step of the process is determining the width of your Figaro chain. Depending on your style and how you want to layer it, you might want to go with a minimal 2mm chain, a bold 10mm option, or something anywhere in between. GLD offers a range of options and here’s a detailed breakdown of what works best for each scenario.

Width guide:

Who Wears Figaro Chains Today

Figaro chains became popular when they showed up in sports, music, and fashion in the 80s and 90s, but today you see everyone from Rihanna to Mookie Betts rocking them. These are one of the most versatile everyday chains that fit any style. So much so that both grandparents and their grandchildren can wear the same chain and style them in their own unique way.

Finding the Right Figaro Chain for You

There’s no shortage of Figaro chain styles and finding the best one for your fit is all about understanding what works best in each scenario. The difference between materials, finishes, lengths, and widths create hundreds of options and play key roles when it comes to what works best for you and your fit for the day. Once you know the moment you’re dressing for, you can make the right decision and shine your way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Figaro chain? A Figaro chain is a flattened necklace designed with a segmented pattern of three circular links followed by one oval link throughout its entire length. That alternating link pattern gives it a distinctly recognizable look, which varies depending on the materials, widths, and lengths.

Where did Figaro chains come from?Figaro chains originated in Italy, and the name is widely considered to be derived from two operas, The Marriage of Figaro and The Barber of Seville, where there is a character named Figaro. They date back to the mid-18th century, and are closely associated with the Riccardi family, one of the most notable families of goldsmiths and jewelers.

How did Figaro chains become popular?Figaro chains made their way to America through Italian immigrants in the 19th century and were popularized by both drug dealer culture and the emerging hip-hop scene in the 80s and 90s. People like Prodigy and Deion Sanders wore thick Figaro chains with large pendants and solo, respectively.

What is the difference between a Figaro chain and a Cuban link?The difference between a Figaro and Cuban link chain is the link pattern, where Figaros have an alternating pattern of 3 short links to 1 longer link and Cuban links have thick interlocking round links.How do I style a Figaro chain?Figaro chains can be worn by anyone, young or elderly, flashy or minimalistic, and simply depend on how you choose to express yourself. For an everyday option, go with the 4mm 20-inch yellow gold Figaro. The most subtle option is the 2mm in white gold. If you're looking for the chain to be the main focal point of your fit, go for a 6mm diamond Figaro, 9mm, or 10mm.

What length Figaro chain should I get?20 inches is GLD's recommended length and the most versatile option that works on most frames with or without a pendant. For pendant wear, 22–24 inches is the best choice. For oversized fits or maximum length statement pieces, 26–30 inches works best.

What width Figaro chain should I get?The 4mm is GLD's most versatile Figaro chain, as the link pattern stands out without dominating. For a minimalist look, the 2mm is the best base layer. For a statement piece, the 6mm, 9mm, or 10mm options work best.

What materials does GLD offer for Figaro chains?GLD offers yellow gold plated, white gold plated, 10k solid gold, and 14k solid gold options. The 10k solid gold is GLD's entry solid gold option and the 14k solid gold is GLD's highest purity.

Who wears Figaro chains today?Today you see everyone from Rihanna to Mookie Betts rocking Figaro chains, and they are one of the most versatile everyday chains that fit any style. 

John Polanco

John Polanco is a copywriter from the birthplace of hip-hop whose work spans jewelry, fashion, beauty, music, world-leading brands, and art institutions shaping the diaspora.