Which Sterling Silver Chain Should You Get? A MCKER Gifting Guide

Choosing the right sterling silver chain depends on style, thickness, and daily use. This guide details MCKER’s sterling silver chains using real sizes from the collection, helping men shop for themselves and women find gifts with confidence.

All chains mentioned here are part of MCKER's collection and made from solid 925 sterling silver for long-lasting, everyday wear.

After you have decided which chain to get. Refer to our Men's silver chain length guide for help choosing the correct length of the chain.

Start With How the Chain Will Be Worn

This first choice eliminates most mistakes.

Minimal everyday wear - Round box chain, 3mm Cuban  
Statement silver chain - 6mm Cuban, 3.9mm Franco  
Sterling silver chain for pendant - Round box, 3mm Franco, wheat  
Everyday silver chain - 3mm Franco chain , Cuban (3mm or 5mm)  

This applies to both men buying a silver chain and women gifting a men’s sterling silver chain.

Minimal Sterling Silver Chains

Minimal chains lay flat on the chest and don’t overwhelm an outfit.

Round Box Chain (1.6mm & 2.6mm)  

The round box chain sterling silver option is the simplest and most understated chain in the collection.  

1.6mm  

Slim, light, and discreet. Perfect for minimal style or lighter pendants.  

2.6mm  

Still minimal, but stronger. Provides better balance with pendants and daily wear.  

Best for: minimal style, pendants, first chain  
  

3mm Cuban Chain  

The 3mm Cuban link chain is a safe and minimal version of a classic style.  
It is clean and subtle, most common, easy for everyday wear and a safest choice for first time chain. 

Best for: minimal look with character  
  

Statement Sterling Silver Chains

Statement chains are meant to stand out, not oversized but intentional.

6mm Cuban Chain  

The 6mm Cuban chain has presence without being excessive.  
Strong visual weight  
Worn alone  
Still balanced and wearable  

Best for: bold style, standalone wear  
 

3.9mm Franco Chain (4mm look)  

The 3.9 mm Franco chain matches the market-standard 4 mm thickness. Franco chains feature rounded square structured links and conveys a visible presence, for a clean, masculine and confident look.   

Everyday Sterling Silver Chains

Everyday wear means comfort, durability, and versatility.

Franco Chains (3mm & 3.9mm)  

The Franco chain sterling silver option is the most versatile chain MCKER offers. It has a modern look and has a growing popularity. 

3mm Franco 

Clean and safe. Ideal first chain and for everyday wear. It is MCKER's most versatile chain.

3.9mm Franco  

More presence, still wearable daily.  
It is the great as an everyday silver chain, gifting, and a piece that will standout  

Cuban Chains (3 mm & 5 mm)  

Both sizes work well for daily use.  
3mm Cuban - subtle daily wear  
5mm Cuban - most versatile Cuban size  

Cubans are classic everyday chains, great for gifts, and a safe first buy.

Sterling Silver Chains for Pendant Pairing

Pairing with a pendant is a personal style choice but it is recommended to not pair it with a statement chain. Not every chain works well with a pendant, but some do and these are the best choices.

Best pendant chains  

Round box chain (1.6mm or 2.6 mm)  
3mm Franco chain  
3.4mm wheat chain  

Wheat Chain (3.4 mm)  

The wheat chain sterling silver option provides a refined, woven understated look.  
The chain has a Smooth feel and balanced thickness. It works well with or without pendants.

Rope Chains (3.1 mm & 4.3 mm)

The rope chain sterling silver option adds texture and movement.  
3.1mm - clean, everyday texture  
4.3mm - more shine, better as a standalone piece  

Best for: second chain to add to your collection, layering variety and if you like a chain that shines bright naturally.   
  

Sterling Silver Chain Gifting Cheat Sheet

  
Final Recommendation

If you’re still deciding which sterling silver chain to get, start with a Franco chain. It offers the best options for everyday wear, gifting, and long-term use. For minimal style, choose a round box chain. For a clear statement, select a 6 mm Cuban or 3.9 mm Franco.  

View the Complete Sterling silver chains collection.