Difference between a Pendant and a Necklace – A Complete Guide

Difference between Pendant and Necklace – A Complete Guide 

Some may argue that whether you say "pendant" or "necklace" doesn't really matter—they are the same. But there's actually a big difference between the two, and mixing them up isn’t quite right. 

Think of it like calling every sneaker a boot. No doubt, they both go on your feet and serve similar purposes, but you know calling a sneaker a boot is a rookie mistake—their features are worlds apart. The same goes for the difference between a pendant and a necklace. They might seem like close cousins, but each has its own identity, which you are about to find out today in this blog. 

We hope you won't brush off this necklace vs. pendant topic this time because you might not like it when a salesman (politely or maybe smugly) corrects you at the store, saying, “Ma’am, it’s not a necklace; it's a pendant, actually.” 

So, let’s clear it up once and for all.

Necklace vs Pendant: Meaning and Origin

We're about to dive into the details of both necklace and pendant—exploring their history, purpose, appearance, and how they differ. Let's start by learning about the pendant. 

What is a Pendant?

The word 'pendant' comes from the Latin word 'pandere', which means something hanging down. That hanging can be a small hoop, ring, or any decorative piece that hangs from a chain or necklace. Pendants have been around for centuries and are worn not just as ornaments but also as amulets for protection, status symbols, or tokens of memory. 

Pendants during the Stone Age consisted of natural objects like stones, shells, and teeth. However, as the civilisation advanced, gemstones and intricate carvings became the most sought-after embellishments.

What is a Necklace?

A necklace is a round-shaped ornament worn around the neck, and typically it is made from a chain, cord, or string. 

Necklaces have been popular since prehistoric times, dating back to around 120,000 years. Early necklaces were simple strands made from natural fibres and threads. Around 4000–3000 BCE, humans began experimenting with metals, which gave birth to beautiful gold and silver necklaces that we still treasure today.

So, the basic difference between a pendant and a necklace is that a pendant is a decorative piece that hangs freely, whereas a necklace is a complete loop worn around the neck that can be with or without a pendant.

Your Complete Guide to Different Necklace Types

There are endless style options when it comes to buying necklaces. Learn about the main styles—their design details and standout features—so you can choose the perfect one.

• Beaded Necklace

Beaded necklaces are artful creations crafted with impeccable precision where beads of unique shapes, textures, or colours are strung together. 

In La Vita’s collection, you’ll find beaded necklaces made from gold metal beads and natural stones like peach chalcy, green amethyst, pink quartz, and blue sapphire, set on high-quality Italian brass or sterling silver chains. You may choose to wear them every day or layer them for vacations or brunches.

• Pendant Necklace

We already discussed this one, but we’ll happily mention it again. Basically the pendant necklaces have a focal element that grabs everyone’s attention. Now this element can be anything—any memory, meaningful gemstone, or precious shape. 

If you check out our collection, we have vibrant Green Solar Quartz that symbolises nature’s energy, Feather Shape with Lolite Beads for calm and grace, the Birds Texture with White CZ to give you a sense of freedom, and many more beautiful and thoughtful pendant necklaces.

• Chunky Necklace

Okay! so these masterpieces were actually introduced for women who want to make a bold statement. The oversized and striking chains you see—those are called chunky necklaces.

While exploring La Vita’s chunky necklace collection, you will find stunning, bold, edgy chains and necklaces with delicate beads  or textured metal elements – each radiating an irresistible, captivating charm. You can wear them in routine or at weddings to create a look that compels everyone to turn heads.

• Statement Necklace

As the name says, statement necklaces are to make a statement. Now how they make a statement is either through intricate designs, vibrant colours, or eccentric shapes. 

La Vita's collection features statement pieces with mesmerising artistic looks, like the Three Half Moon Hammered necklace that has a unique design concept, the Paper Clip Link Chain with attention-grabbing appeal, and some religiously inspired designs as well, like Om Charms with Carnelian, Rainbow Moonstone Necklace that is both meaningful and beautiful.

• Minimalist Necklace

Now it’s the turn of the most favourite necklace style after chokers—the minimalist necklace. 

“Less is more” – this is the philosophy behind minimalist necklaces, and that’s actually true. This necklace design will make you believe that even simple lines and clean designs can drape you in elegance, sophistication and subtle beauty. 

We have the White Cubic Zirconia North Star Necklace, the Circle Shape Texture Necklace, and the Rainbow Drop with Ball Chain Necklace to exemplify this philosophy.

• Pearl Necklace 

Pearl necklaces are crafted with pearls that we all know are timeless elements brimming with grace and elegance. It’s hard to say if they’ll ever go out of vogue — they’re simply forever. 

The pearls in our collection are natural freshwater pearls that have a gentle luminous glow. At a glance the pieces like the Baroque Pearl with Leaf Charm Necklace, the Baroque Pearl with Amethyst Gemstone Necklace, and the Fresh Pearl Stone Dual Layer Necklace will catch your eye—and before you know it, your fingers will slide them to the cart.

Find Your Style in La Vita's Necklace Collection

So, now that you've got the lowdown on necklace styles, it's time to find your match. And you don't need to go anywhere, as La Vita's collection has got you covered. In each category – whether pendant, beaded, pearl, statement, chunky, or minimalist – we have a stunning array of handcrafted designs waiting for you. Come and explore today!

FAQs

Can a pendant be a necklace?

Yes, a pendant can be a part of a necklace. Pendants are hangings that drop down from a chain or cord. They are added to a necklace to make it more attractive and sometimes meaningful too. Often a pendant becomes the focal point of a necklace. 

What is the difference between a pendant and a charm? 

Pendants are large in size and designed to stand alone in a necklace. On the other hand, charms are small and delicate and are usually attached to other jewellery items or, say, used in multiples, like you most commonly see in bracelets. 

What is the difference between a pendant and a necklace? 

The necklace and pendant are often confused as the same thing, but they are not. A necklace is a complete piece of jewellery, whereas a pendant is an individual decorative element that has its own charm or special meaning and hangs down from a chain. 

Which shape of pendant is best?

Women who have square-shaped faces must look for angular lines or circular pendants. And if you have a diamond-shaped face, then go for oval or teardrop pendants, as that will balance the forehead and chin width. Lastly, the heart-shaped faces must choose triangular or V-shaped pendants.