The Modern Must-Have: Why the Paperclip Chain Rules the Jewelry World

If you've opened a fashion magazine, scrolled through Instagram, or even just walked past a boutique window in the last few years, you've seen it: The Best Paperclip Link Chain Necklace (Sterling Silver/Gold). This is not just a trend; it's the reigning champion of modern chain styles. It has taken the jewelry world by storm because it's the perfect paradox—it's incredibly simple, yet makes a huge statement. It's chic and sophisticated, yet feels delightfully casual.

As someone who has been developing websites for e-commerce and supplying high-quality jewelry for thirty years, I've watched countless styles try to claim the title of "It Chain." But the paperclip link is different. Its design, inspired by the humble office supply, is genius in its minimalism. You get these smooth, elongated, oval links that lie perfectly flat, catching the light with every movement. It offers structure without being stiff, and boldness without the visual weight of a thicker curb or Cuban chain. It's the ultimate expression of modern elegance—clean lines, purposeful spacing, and a versatility that lets you wear it as a solo statement or the most interesting layer in your neck stack.

The beauty of the paperclip chain is that it works across all metal types. For that high-end look that promises a lifetime of wear, we naturally gravitate toward solid gold. However, the rectangular structure of the paperclip link demands a significant amount of metal, driving up the price quickly. This is where Sterling Silver and Gold Vermeil step in as the brilliant, accessible heroes. Sterling silver offers a gorgeous, bright, luxurious white-metal option that won't break the bank. Gold vermeil (a thick layer of real gold over sterling silver) gives you the rich, warm look of gold with a durable, high-quality base metal. Whether you choose silver or gold, the paperclip chain is a guaranteed style win. Let's look at seven of the best paperclip chains that truly capture this modern elegance.

Why the Paperclip is the Ultimate Connector

Beyond its stylish good looks, the paperclip chain is structurally fantastic for jewelry lovers. Due to the elongated, open links, it’s one of the easiest chains to customize and utilize.

• Instant Charms: The design allows you to clip a pendant or charm to any link, not just the clasp. This means you can create a lariat effect, add multiple charms at various points, or adjust the length on the fly. It turns your necklace into a truly interactive piece of jewelry.

• Flattering Shape: Unlike some traditional chains that can look heavy, the paperclip link, thanks to the negative space within the oval, looks light and airy, even when the links are substantial. It lengthens the neck and draws the eye downward, making it universally flattering.

• The Modern Heirloom: This style is set to endure. It's a clean, geometric form that won't look dated in a few years. When you invest in a quality version—be it sterling silver, vermeil, or solid gold—you're acquiring a piece that carries an air of contemporary sophistication now and will remain relevant as a classic link style.

7 Top-Tier Paperclip Link Chain Necklaces

Choosing the right paperclip chain involves focusing on the link size (width and length) and the quality of the finishing. You want links that are smooth, uniform, and possess a strong, secure clasp. The price can vary wildly depending on the metal and the sheer amount of it used, so we'll look at a range from dependable sterling silver to affordable gold vermeil, and even a solid gold option for the serious collector.

1. The Mejuri 14k Gold Paperclip Chain Charm Necklace

Mejuri is a leader in the demi-fine space, and their 14k Gold Triple Link Paperclip Chain Charm Necklace is a powerhouse. While many of their pieces are vermeil, this particular version in solid 14k gold is an absolute investment that will last forever. It features a slightly mixed-link design (or sometimes a triple-link repetition) which adds a subtle, high-end design variation to the classic paperclip shape. The solid 14k gold means you never have to take it off—it’s shower-proof, gym-proof, and tarnish-proof. It offers that rich, warm gold color and a satisfying weight that only a solid chain can provide. This is the ultimate "buy once, wear always" paperclip chain for the purist.

Price Range (Solid 14k Gold): $$850 - $1,800+ (Varies heavily by length and link size)

2. The Kendra Scott Small Paperclip Chain Necklace (Sterling Silver)

For an accessible and beautiful white-metal option, Kendra Scott's Small Paperclip Chain Necklace in Sterling Silver is a fantastic choice. Sterling silver provides a bright, cool luster that is sophisticated and easy to maintain. This piece is often described as "scaled-down," making it an excellent, easygoing layer. The smaller links make it perfect if you want the style of the paperclip trend without the full bulk of a chunkier chain. It’s perfect for everyday wear, either layered with small diamond pendants or as a shimmering solo choker. The quality of the sterling silver ensures long-lasting shine, making it an elevated essential in your collection.

Price Range: $$80 - $120

3. The Blue Nile 18" Medium Paperclip Necklace (14k Italian Yellow Gold)

Blue Nile is known for high-quality, fine jewelry staples, and their 18" Medium Paperclip Necklace in 14k Italian Yellow Gold is a classic choice for a reason. Sourced from Italy, the craftsmanship is superb, featuring seamless, highly polished links that lie perfectly flat. At around 4mm wide (which is a "medium" gauge for this style), it hits that perfect middle ground—it's bold enough to wear alone as a feature piece, yet fine enough to still be a phenomenal, high-end layering piece. The 14k gold provides excellent durability and a gorgeous, rich color, confirming its position as a lifetime piece from a reputable jeweler.

Price Range (Solid 14k Gold): $$800 - $1,500+ (Based on current gold prices and discounts)

4. The Oak & Luna Large Paperclip Chain Necklace (Gold Vermeil)

If you are after maximum visual impact without the solid gold price, the Large Paperclip Chain Necklace from Oak & Luna in Gold Vermeil is a great solution. This piece typically features substantial links, often in the 5mm to 7mm range, giving it a chunky, bold look that perfectly channels the trend. Because it's a Gold Vermeil, it gives you the rich look of gold with the sterling silver base. This chain is ideal for wearing solo with a simple t-shirt or turtleneck, allowing its strong geometric design to be the star. The larger links are also easy to manipulate for adding a toggle or custom charms.

Price Range: $$130 - $180

5. The Talisa Classic Bold Link Chain (Sterling Silver)

Talisa Jewelry offers a straightforward, quality sterling silver option with their Classic Bold Link Chain. While they sometimes refer to it as a "bold link" or "sleek chain," the design is the unmistakable elongated paperclip. This necklace is appreciated by customers for its comfortable weight and sleek, polished finish. It offers the crisp white shine of sterling silver and the modern feel of the paperclip link. Because it’s often available with an extender, you can easily adjust it from a higher choker-style to a longer layering chain, maximizing its versatility right out of the box.

Price Range: $$90 - $150

6. The Menē 24k Gold Paperclip Chain

For the buyer who considers jewelry a pure investment, the Menē 24k Gold Paperclip Chain is the pinnacle. Menē deals exclusively in pure, unalloyed 24-karat gold, meaning this chain is not only the richest, warmest yellow color possible but also retains its full intrinsic value. The paperclip design in 24k gold is stunning—it glows with an intense luster that 14k can’t quite match. While 24k is slightly softer, the clean, smooth links of the paperclip style wear surprisingly well. This is a true heirloom piece and an investment in pure, non-tarnishing gold.

Price Range (Pure 24k Gold): $$3,000 - $8,000+ (Priced by fluctuating gold weight)

7. The JTV Sterling Silver 3.5mm Flat Paperclip Chain

For a budget-friendly but well-received option that still delivers on the sterling silver promise, look to retailers like JTV. Their Sterling Silver 3.5mm Flat Paperclip Chain offers a more delicate take on the trend. At 3.5mm wide, it provides that perfect, shimmering texture that works so well as a mid-length layer in a stack. It's less of a bold statement and more of a subtle, everyday textural piece. The 925 sterling silver is the key—you get the enduring precious metal quality and bright color, ensuring it remains a foundational piece in your casual and professional wardrobe.

Price Range: $$50 - $90

Customizing Your Paperclip: The Clasp Factor

One of the most exciting aspects of the paperclip chain is the way it has brought the toggle clasp and sister hook into the mainstream. While many standard paperclip chains come with a simple lobster clasp, the best versions incorporate a bold, decorative clasp at the front or side.

• The Toggle Clasp: This T-shaped bar slips through a larger ring and is often deliberately positioned at the center or just off-center of the necklace. This turns the clasp itself into a design element, giving the chain a sophisticated, industrial-chic focal point.

• The Sister Hook / Dog Clip: This large, easy-to-open oval or rounded clip is not just a clasp—it’s a connector. It’s perfect for clipping multiple charms, pendants, or even another chain directly onto the paperclip links, instantly transforming the necklace from simple chain to personalized charm holder.

When you buy your paperclip chain, consider if you want a subtle closure or a highly visible, customizable one. The versatility of this link style makes it the top trending chain for a reason—it adapts to your personal style, rather than making you adapt to it. It’s simple, it’s sleek, and it is here to stay.