I Made These Mistakes Buying a Gold Chain Necklace (So You Don't Have To)

I wanted a cool, simple chain only gold necklace for men. I ended up with something that tarnished after a week and felt cheap. Don't make my error! Here's what I learned the hard way:

• Get the right size and length for your style.
• Choose a quality chain that lasts.
• Avoid cheap imitations that look fake.

Mistake #1: Going for the Cheapest Option

Big mistake! I saw a chain only gold necklace for men online that was incredibly cheap. I thought, "What's the risk?" The risk was a necklace that turned my neck green and broke within days. Super cheap usually means super low quality. I get it, we all want to save money, but with jewelry, it often backfires.

Verdict: Don't sacrifice quality for a low price. It's better to save up for something that lasts.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Quality Indicators

I didn't pay attention to the material. Was it real gold? Was it gold-plated over a decent metal? Nope. It was some mystery alloy that reacted badly with my skin. Look for these things:

• Karat (K): Higher karat means more gold. 24K is pure gold, but softer. 14K or 18K are more durable.
• Base Metal: If it's gold-plated, what's underneath? Stainless steel or sterling silver are good choices. Avoid cheap metals like nickel.
• Clasp Type: A sturdy clasp is essential. Lobster clasps and spring ring clasps are generally reliable.

Verdict: Read the product description carefully! Know what you're buying.

Mistake #3: Not Checking Reviews

I skipped reading reviews. Huge mistake! Other people had already experienced the same issues I did. Reviews can tell you:

• If the color fades or tarnishes quickly.
• If the clasp is weak.
• If the necklace causes skin irritation.