How to Stop Necklace Chains From Tangling

Tangled chains are the main reason nice necklaces stop being worn. The good news is that almost all tangling is caused by two things that are easy to control: movement and contact.

Fasten the clasp before you store it

An open chain will always find a way to loop through itself. Doing up the clasp turns it into a closed circle that cannot thread through its own links.

Use the straw trick for fine chains

Thread one end of a fine chain through a drinking straw, then fasten the clasp at the other end. The chain cannot fold on itself, which makes it perfect for travel or a handbag.

Store pieces flat and separated

Hanging chains sway and rub against each other. A flat, compartmented tray or individual soft pouches keep each piece still. If you only have one box, small resealable bags work surprisingly well and also slow down tarnishing.

Layer with different lengths

Most tangling while wearing happens because two chains are too close in length. Keep at least four to five centimetres between layers, or use a layering clasp that holds several chains at fixed spacing.

If it is already knotted

Lay the chain on a flat surface, add a drop of baby oil or olive oil to the knot, and work it apart gently with two pins. Never pull; a fine chain will stretch or snap long before the knot gives way.