How to Shorten a Necklace
By: Leslie H.
Shortening a necklace can require a bit of jewelry-making skill, depending on the type of necklace and the desired length. Here are some methods for shortening necklaces:
1. Using Jewelry Pliers for Chain Necklaces
- Tools Needed: Jewelry pliers and wire cutter.
- Method: Identify the desired length, then use the pliers to open a link at that point. Remove the excess chain and reattach the clasp to the last link of your new length.
2. Adjustable Knot for Cord Necklaces
- Tools Needed: None.
- Method: For necklaces made of cord, you can tie sliding knots to make the length adjustable. This method requires no cutting and is reversible.
3. Adding a Clasp for Easy Adjustment
- Tools Needed: Clasp, jump rings, pliers.
- Method: Attach jump rings to multiple points in the chain, allowing the clasp to hook into different positions and adjust the length as desired.
4. Taking It to a Professional
- If you're not comfortable doing it yourself or if the necklace is particularly valuable or delicate, it might be best to take it to a professional jeweler. They can shorten it precisely and ensure that the modification is not noticeable.
5. Using a Necklace Shortener
- Tools Needed: Necklace shortener (available at jewelry supply stores).
- Method: This is a clip that gathers and hides part of the necklace, shortening it without permanently altering its length. It's a great temporary solution, especially for chunky or pearl necklaces.
6. Removing Links from a Chain Necklace
- Tools Needed: Pliers.
- Method: For a permanent solution, remove links from a chain necklace. Identify the new length, use pliers to open a link at that spot, remove the excess links, and then close the chain with the pliers.
Safety Tips
- Use Protective Eyewear: Tiny pieces can fly off when cutting or bending metal.
- Work Over a Tray: This catches any small pieces that fall, preventing them from getting lost.
If you're not sure about doing it yourself, especially with valuable or sentimental pieces, it's always safer to consult with or hire a professional jeweler to do the job for you. They can ensure that the alteration is exactly what you want and that it's done safely and securely.
