Byzantine Chain Guide: History, Types, Sizing & How to Choose

The Byzantine chain is one of the most technically demanding and visually distinctive chain weaves ever produced in fine jewelry. Its construction -- a repeating pattern of interlocking rings that create a dense, tubular structure -- dates back to the metalworking traditions of the Byzantine Empire and remains one of the few chain styles that cannot be mass-produced by machine without sacrificing its signature texture. This guide covers everything you need to know: the history behind the weave, how it is made, seven recognized variations, width sizing from 2mm to 9mm with real weights and prices, gold karat selection, styling, care, and how to choose the right Byzantine chain for your style. Byzantine is one of the most distinctive among the 12 types of gold chains you can choose from. Call (321) 521-4651 for personalized sizing help.

What Is a Byzantine Chain?

A Byzantine chain is built from individual metal rings that interlock in a repeating 4-in-1 pattern -- four rings pass through one central ring, then the sequence repeats. The result is a tightly woven, tubular chain with a rope-like texture that catches light from every angle. Unlike simpler chain styles that use a single link-through-link construction, the Byzantine weave creates a three-dimensional structure where every ring is physically connected to four neighboring rings, producing a chain that is both flexible and remarkably strong.

The name "Byzantine" is a modern tribute to the Byzantine Empire, whose craftsmen were renowned for ornate, intricate metalwork across jewelry, armor, and religious artifacts. The chain is also known by several alternative names depending on the region and tradition: Idiot's Delight (a tongue-in-cheek reference to its complexity), King's Braid, Birdcage, Etruscan Chain, and King's Chain. All refer to the same fundamental 4-in-1 interlocking weave.

What makes the Byzantine chain visually distinctive is its density. There are no visible gaps between links. The interlocking rings sit flush against each other, creating a continuous woven surface that refracts light from multiple angles simultaneously. This is why Byzantine chains appear to shimmer in motion -- each slight movement shifts how light enters and exits the woven structure. In terms of weight, Byzantine chains are among the heaviest chain styles per width, second only to Cuban links in gold density. A 6mm Byzantine chain at 22 inches in 10K gold weighs 108 grams -- heavier than most other chain styles at the same width. Unlike a curb chain, which uses simple twisted links, or a Figaro chain, which alternates link sizes, the Byzantine achieves its complexity through uniform interlocking -- every ring is the same size, and the pattern never changes.

The History of Byzantine Chains

The Byzantine Empire & Chainmail (330-1453 AD)

The Byzantine Empire began in 330 AD when Emperor Constantine I founded Constantinople -- modern-day Istanbul -- as the new capital of the Roman Empire. Over the next eleven centuries, the Byzantines built the most wealthy and artistically advanced civilization in the medieval world, producing unmatched achievements in architecture, religious art, and metalworking. Byzantine craftsmen developed sophisticated techniques for shaping gold, silver, and bronze into armor, religious vessels, coins, and jewelry. Their metalwork was so highly prized that Byzantine gold coins became the standard currency of international trade for nearly 700 years.

Central to Byzantine military engineering was chainmail armor -- interlocking metal rings woven into flexible sheets that could absorb sword blows and arrow impacts while allowing a soldier to move freely. The most common chainmail pattern was the 4-in-1 European weave, where each ring passes through four neighboring rings. This is the exact structural principle behind the Byzantine chain as we know it in jewelry today. The empire's armies relied on chainmail from the 6th century onward, and Byzantine armorers refined the technique to a level of precision that European smiths would not match for centuries.

From Armor to Adornment

The transition from chainmail to jewelry was neither sudden nor simple. Etruscan metalworkers in pre-Roman Italy (roughly 800-200 BC) independently developed similar interlocking ring techniques for decorative chains and bracelets, and some historians credit them as the true originators of the woven chain concept. By the medieval period, European goldsmiths had adapted chainmail weaving patterns for decorative chains, necklaces, and bracelets. The "Byzantine" label stuck because the weave's complexity echoed the empire's reputation for ornate, intricate craftsmanship -- and because "Byzantine" had become an English word meaning "elaborate and complex," which accurately describes the construction process. Renaissance-era goldsmiths in the 15th and 16th centuries refined the technique further, producing finer chains in precious metals for European nobility and clergy.

The Modern Revival

Byzantine chain-making was preserved throughout the 20th century primarily by the chainmaille hobbyist community -- enthusiasts who kept traditional weaving techniques alive as a craft. In the 1990s and 2000s, fine jewelers began producing Byzantine chains in solid gold and sterling silver as demand grew for distinctive, artisan chain styles that stood apart from mass-produced options. The hip-hop and urban jewelry movement that popularized Cuban links also brought attention to other complex weave styles, including Byzantine. Today, the Byzantine chain is recognized as one of the most technically demanding and visually striking weaves in fine jewelry -- a chain that rewards close inspection and carries over a thousand years of metalworking heritage.

How a Byzantine Chain Is Made

Building a Byzantine chain is a multi-step process that requires precision at every stage. Here is how it works, from raw metal to finished chain.

1. Wire Drawing. The process begins with a gold alloy rod -- 10K (41.7% pure gold) or 14K (58.3% pure gold). The rod is drawn through progressively smaller dies to achieve the exact wire gauge needed for the chain's target width. The wire diameter must be precise because it directly determines the chain's final proportions and flexibility.

2. Ring Formation. The wire is coiled tightly around a steel mandrel to create uniform rings. The mandrel diameter determines the inner diameter of each ring, which controls the chain's final width and how it articulates. For Byzantine chains, the aspect ratio -- wire diameter to ring inner diameter -- is typically 3.5:1, tighter than most chain weaves.

3. Ring Cutting. The coiled wire is cut with jeweler's snips or a thin saw blade to produce individual open rings. Each ring must be cut cleanly so the ends meet flush when closed -- any gap or misalignment will show in the finished chain.

4. The 4-in-1 Weave. This is the core of Byzantine construction. Two closed rings are placed side by side. Two open rings pass through both closed rings and are then closed. This 2+2 pattern repeats, with each new pair of rings threaded through the previous pair. The result is a tubular, interlocking structure where every ring connects to four neighboring rings.

5. Folding and Setting. After the basic chain of connected ring pairs is complete, specific rings are folded back to create the signature Byzantine "S" pattern. This folding step is what transforms a simple 4-in-1 chain into the distinctive woven tube shape that defines the Byzantine style.

6. Soldering. Every ring joint is individually soldered with karat-matched gold solder to prevent the chain from pulling apart under tension. In a 22-inch Byzantine chain, there can be 200 or more individual solder points -- each one inspected for strength and uniformity.

7. Finishing. The chain is tumble-polished in a rotating drum with fine abrasive media, then hand-inspected for smooth articulation, consistent tension, and uniform link alignment. Any ring that binds or sits at an incorrect angle is re-adjusted by hand.

Every GOLDZENN Byzantine chain goes through this exact process in our Miami workshop. For a broader look at how handcrafted chains and custom pieces are built from start to finish, read about our custom jewelry workshop process. Questions about construction? Call (321) 521-4651.

Types of Byzantine Chain Patterns

"Byzantine" is actually a family of related weave patterns, not a single design. The standard version -- the full Byzantine -- is the most common and the one most jewelers refer to when they say "Byzantine chain." But at least six other recognized variations exist, each with a different visual character, weight profile, and level of construction complexity. GOLDZENN offers the Full Byzantine pattern -- the densest, most substantial variation -- in solid 10K and 14K gold across eight widths from 2mm to 9mm.

1. Full Byzantine (Standard). The classic 4-in-1 weave described in the construction section above. Round tubular profile. This is the most widely available variation in fine jewelry and the one GOLDZENN manufactures across all eight widths. Maximum density, maximum light play.

2. Half Byzantine. Uses the same 4-in-1 ring configuration but only on one side of the chain, creating a flatter profile with the woven texture visible on top and a smooth back. Approximately 60-70% the weight of a full Byzantine at the same width. A good option for those who want the Byzantine look with less bulk.

3. Bali-Style Byzantine (Balinese). Features the Byzantine weave interspersed with decorative granulated or oxidized spacer beads, originated by Balinese silversmiths. Typically produced in sterling silver with an antiqued finish. The spacers add roughly 10-20% more weight and give the chain a handcrafted, artisanal character distinct from the clean lines of the standard version.

4. Square Byzantine (Box Byzantine). Instead of the round tubular profile, this variation creates a square cross-section by using rings with a lower aspect ratio and keeping the weave tighter. The result is a more geometric, modern-looking chain with sharp edges and a structured feel. More technically demanding to produce than the standard round version.

5. Trizantine. An extended Byzantine pattern that uses three pairs of rings instead of two before each fold, creating a wider, more elaborate chain. Visually more complex than standard Byzantine, with a wider profile and heavier weight -- typically 130-150% of the standard at equivalent dimensions.

6. King's Chain (King's Braid). The European name for a double-layered Byzantine pattern. Two parallel Byzantine chains are woven together to create a wider, heavier chain with a flat profile. At 180-200% the weight of a standard Byzantine, the King's Chain is reserved for serious collectors and those who want maximum presence.

7. Bird Cage Byzantine. An open, airy variation where the rings are not folded back as tightly, creating visible gaps in the weave that let light pass through. The lightest Byzantine variant at 50-60% of standard weight, it prioritizes decorative aesthetics over density. Typically produced in sterling silver for its ornamental character.

Browse GOLDZENN Byzantine Chains | Email for Custom Orders

Byzantine Chain Width Guide

GOLDZENN offers Byzantine chains in eight widths from 2mm to 9mm -- the widest range of any solid gold Byzantine chain collection. Width is the single most important decision after karat because it determines how the chain looks, feels, and wears on the body. Our chain width guide covers how width affects wearability across all chain types -- below is the specific breakdown for Byzantine.

Everyday & Layering (2mm - 3mm)

Subtle sophistication. The intricate Byzantine weave is visible up close, but these widths sit close to the skin without commanding attention. The 2mm weighs just 17.16 grams in 10K -- light enough to forget you are wearing it. The 3mm adds visible texture and doubles the weight to 34.32 grams. Both are ideal for layering with other chain styles or wearing under a collared shirt where the weave peeks out at the neckline. Starting at $2,350.99 for the 2mm in 10K, these are the most accessible entry point into solid gold Byzantine chains.

Versatile & Business Casual (4mm - 4.5mm)

The sweet spot. At 4mm, the Byzantine weave becomes clearly visible and the chain has genuine presence without being overpowering. The 4.5mm adds slightly more weight -- 78.54 grams in 10K -- and is the most popular width for men who want a single, all-occasion chain. Both work with an open collar, a crew-neck tee, or a suit. The 4mm at $7,119.99 in 10K represents the best balance of visual impact, wearable weight, and value in the entire collection.

Statement & Going Out (6mm - 6.5mm)

These are serious chains. At 108.02 grams (10K/6mm/22"), this chain weighs more than most Cuban links at the same width because the Byzantine weave packs more gold per inch. The 6.5mm at 159.94 grams in 10K is a true collector piece -- nearly a third of a pound of solid gold on your neck. These widths are for nights out, special events, and men who want their chain to be the focal point of any outfit.

Bold & Maximum Impact (7mm - 9mm)

The flagship tier. The 7mm Byzantine in 10K at 22 inches weighs 195.8 grams. The 9mm in 14K at 22 inches weighs 308 grams -- over two-thirds of a pound of solid gold. That is roughly equivalent in weight to a 14mm Cuban link chain. At 26 inches, the 9mm in 14K reaches 364 grams -- nearly a full pound of solid gold. These chains are conversation pieces, investment pieces, and the kind of jewelry that gets passed down through generations.

Shop All Byzantine Chain Widths | Call (321) 521-4651 for sizing help

Gold Karat Guide for Byzantine Chains

GOLDZENN produces Byzantine chains in two gold alloys: 10K and 14K. Both are yellow gold. The choice between them comes down to durability, color preference, and your investment range.

10K Gold -- Maximum Durability

10K gold is 41.7% pure gold alloyed with copper, silver, and zinc. It is the hardest gold alloy option, the most scratch-resistant, and the most forgiving for daily wear. The color is a slightly cooler, lighter gold tone compared to 14K, but it is unmistakably gold. From a value perspective, 10K is the most accessible option: a 22-inch 2mm Byzantine chain starts at $2,350.99, and even the flagship 9mm at 22 inches -- 267.96 grams of solid gold -- comes in at $33,871.99. For anyone who wears their chain daily and does not want to worry about scratches, 10K is the practical choice.

14K Gold -- The Best Balance

14K gold is 58.3% pure gold -- the American jewelry standard. It delivers a rich, warm gold color with excellent durability and is the most frequently chosen karat for GOLDZENN Byzantine chains. The 14K option commands approximately 55-60% premium over 10K across all widths, which reflects the higher gold content by weight. At 14K, the chain contains roughly 40% more pure gold per gram than its 10K counterpart, which translates to both a richer color and higher intrinsic metal value. For a full breakdown of how karat levels compare, read our 14K vs 18K gold comparison and our complete karat comparison.

Why No 18K or 22K?

This is a question we hear regularly, and the answer is structural. The Byzantine weave involves 200 or more individual ring joints in a 22-inch chain, with each ring physically interlocking with four neighbors. Higher karat gold -- 18K at 75% purity or 22K at 91.6% purity -- is significantly softer. Softer gold combined with the intricate interlocking structure increases the risk of ring deformation and solder joint failure under normal daily wear. The 4-in-1 weave demands structural rigidity that only 10K and 14K alloys can reliably provide over a chain's lifetime. For customers who prefer the richer color of higher karat gold, we recommend exploring our Cuban link or curb chain collections, where the simpler link geometry is more forgiving of softer alloys.

Not sure which karat suits your lifestyle? Email contact@goldzenn.com and our team will help you decide.

Byzantine Chain vs Other Chain Styles

The Byzantine chain occupies a unique position in the chain hierarchy. It is more complex than a curb or Figaro, denser than a rope, and more textured than a Cuban link. Here is how it compares across every metric that matters.

Byzantine vs Cuban Link. Both are top-tier investment chains built with substantial gold content. The Byzantine has more visual complexity and superior light play due to its multi-directional interlocking rings, while the Cuban link has a bolder flat profile, sits flatter against the chest, and is the superior choice for heavy pendants. Byzantine chains are heavier per width -- a 6mm Byzantine in 10K at 22 inches weighs 108 grams, which exceeds most Cuban links at the same width. For the full comparison, read our Cuban link chain guide.

Byzantine vs Rope. Both chains produce a textured, dimensional appearance, but they achieve it through fundamentally different methods. A rope chain twists two or more strands of links into a spiral pattern. A Byzantine chain weaves individual rings through each other in a 4-in-1 pattern. Byzantine chains are heavier at the same width, produce more light refraction, and are significantly harder to repair. Rope chains are more flexible, lighter, and more widely available in higher karat options.

Byzantine vs Curb and Figaro. The curb chain and Figaro are the simplest flat-link chain styles and the most affordable entry points into solid gold chains. The Byzantine is the opposite end of the spectrum -- maximum complexity, maximum light play, maximum weight per width. A curb chain at 6mm might weigh 40-60% less than a Byzantine at the same width. Curb and Figaro chains are easier to repair, more pendant-friendly, and more affordable, but they lack the visual depth and dimensional texture that define the Byzantine weave.

Shop Byzantine Chains | Shop Cuban Link Chains | Shop Rope Chains

How to Style a Byzantine Chain

Wearing a Byzantine Chain Solo

The intricate texture of a Byzantine chain makes it a standalone statement piece -- it does not need a pendant to command attention. For subtle sophistication, a 2mm to 3mm width under an open collar reveals just enough of the woven pattern to catch eyes up close. For visible impact, the 4mm to 6mm range sits prominently on a crew neck or V-neck and the weave becomes clearly readable from arm's length. For maximum presence, the 7mm to 9mm widths are designed to be worn over clothing or with an open shirt -- the kind of chain that announces itself when you walk into a room. The woven pattern catches light differently than flat-link chains. Where a Cuban link produces broad, clean flashes, a Byzantine chain shimmers continuously because the interlocking rings create hundreds of small reflective surfaces that shift with every movement. For broader styling advice across all chain types, read our men's gold chain style guide.

Layering Byzantine with Other Chains

Byzantine chains layer exceptionally well because their textured profile contrasts naturally with flat-link styles. The most effective combinations use opposing visual characteristics -- pair something ornate with something clean. A 2mm Byzantine at 20 inches paired with a 6mm Cuban link at 24 inches creates a striking texture contrast: thin ornate weave against thick bold links. A 3mm Byzantine with a 4mm rope chain at a different length produces textural harmony -- both are dimensional chains but with entirely different construction methods. A 4mm Byzantine paired with a 2mm box chain creates a complexity gradient from simple to intricate. The key rule is always layer in different lengths -- 18" with 22", or 20" with 24" -- to prevent tangling and let each chain sit at its own level on the chest. For detailed layering techniques and combinations, see our chain stacking guide.

Byzantine Chains with Pendants

Byzantine chains work best with lightweight pendants under 15 grams -- the chain itself is the visual focus, and a small pendant adds a subtle accent without competing for attention. The best pendant styles include small crosses, initial letters, and medallions under one inch in diameter. Heavy pendants (15 grams and above) can pull on the interlocking rings and cause the chain to sit unevenly on the neck, which disrupts the weave's natural drape. For heavier pendants, a Cuban link or curb chain is the better foundation because their flat-link construction distributes weight more evenly.

Need help visualizing your stack? Email contact@goldzenn.com with a photo and we will suggest combinations from our collection.

How to Care for Your Byzantine Chain

Cleaning a Byzantine Chain

The tight interlocking weave of a Byzantine chain traps body oils, lotion residue, and soap between links more readily than simpler chain styles. Weekly cleaning is straightforward: soak the chain in warm water with mild dish soap for 10 minutes, then use a soft-bristle brush -- a baby toothbrush works well -- to gently clean between the links. Rinse thoroughly under running water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Monthly, a professional ultrasonic cleaning is safe for solid gold Byzantine chains in 10K and 14K. Avoid harsh chemicals, chlorine, and abrasive cleaners -- they can weaken solder joints over time. For detailed step-by-step instructions, follow our gold jewelry cleaning guide.

Storage and Daily Wear

Hang your Byzantine chain vertically on a jewelry hook or lay it flat in a lined jewelry box. Never ball up a Byzantine chain -- the interlocking rings can kink if the chain is compressed at sharp angles, and unkinking a Byzantine weave without damaging a ring joint requires professional tools. Remove the chain before swimming, showering, and sleeping to extend its longevity. Solid gold does not tarnish, but accumulated body oils will dull the surface over time. Regular cleaning restores the chain's signature sparkle and keeps the interlocking rings articulating smoothly.

When to Seek Professional Repair

Byzantine chains are among the most difficult chain styles to repair because a broken link affects the entire 4-in-1 structure around it. If a link opens or the chain feels like it is catching at a specific point, stop wearing it immediately to prevent further damage. Only a skilled jeweler should attempt a Byzantine chain repair -- the process requires opening the weave, replacing the damaged ring with a matching gauge ring, re-soldering with karat-matched solder, and re-weaving the surrounding links. GOLDZENN offers repair services for all chains purchased from our shop, backed by our lifetime warranty on craftsmanship defects. Need a repair or deep cleaning? Call (321) 521-4651 or email contact@goldzenn.com.

Choosing the Right Byzantine Chain

If you have read the sections above, you already know more about Byzantine chains than 99% of buyers. Here is a four-step framework to narrow down your choice.

Step 1: Define Your Investment. 10K Byzantine chains start at $2,350.99 (22" 2mm) and go up to $33,871.99 (22" 9mm). 14K starts at $3,769.99 (22" 2mm) and goes up to $62,562.99 (26" 9mm). Unlike fashion jewelry, solid gold Byzantine chains are assets that hold intrinsic metal value based on their gold weight. Before purchasing any solid gold chain, learn how to spot real gold to avoid plated imitations.

Step 2: Choose Your Width. Everyday wear: 2mm to 3mm. Versatile all-occasion: 4mm to 4.5mm. Statement: 6mm and above. Refer to the width table above for exact weights and prices at each width.

Step 3: Choose Your Karat. Active lifestyle and daily wear: 10K (hardest, most scratch-resistant). Best balance of color and durability: 14K. Both are solid gold and both hold their value.

Step 4: Choose Your Length. 20 inches sits at the base of the neck for a close fit. 22 inches -- the most popular length -- sits just below the collarbone. 24 inches sits mid-chest, visible over most necklines. 26 inches offers a longer drape that reaches the sternum.

GOLDZENN Recommendation: If you are buying your first Byzantine chain, start with the 4mm in 10K gold at 22 inches ($7,119.99). It gives you the full Byzantine weave experience -- visible texture, genuine weight at 56.32 grams, and daily-wear durability -- at an accessible entry point. Once you experience the chain in person, most customers come back for a wider version. Like all solid gold chains, Byzantine chains hold intrinsic value -- learn more about gold chain investment value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Byzantine chain?

A Byzantine chain is a jewelry chain made from interlocking metal rings woven in a repeating 4-in-1 pattern. The weave creates a dense, rope-like tube with exceptional light reflection from every angle. The design originated from chainmail techniques used in the Byzantine Empire (330-1453 AD) and remains one of the most complex chain weaves produced in fine jewelry today.

Are Byzantine chains strong and durable?

Yes. The 4-in-1 interlocking structure distributes stress across multiple rings, making Byzantine chains highly resistant to stretching and breaking under normal wear. In 10K or 14K gold, a Byzantine chain will last decades with proper care. The main vulnerability is individual ring joints -- if the chain is pulled sharply or caught on something, a single ring can open, which requires professional repair due to the interlocking weave structure.

What is the difference between a Byzantine chain and a rope chain?

Both chains have a textured, dimensional appearance, but they achieve it through different construction methods. A rope chain twists two or more strands of links into a spiral pattern. A Byzantine chain weaves individual rings through each other in a 4-in-1 interlocking pattern. Byzantine chains are heavier per width, produce more light play from their multi-directional ring surfaces, and are harder to repair. Rope chains are lighter, more flexible, and available in a wider range of karat options.

Can you wear a Byzantine chain every day?

Absolutely. In 10K or 14K gold, Byzantine chains are built for daily wear. The interlocking structure is mechanically strong and solid gold does not tarnish. For everyday use, widths between 2mm and 4.5mm are the most practical -- light enough to be comfortable but substantial enough to showcase the weave. Remove the chain before swimming or heavy physical activity and clean weekly to maintain its shine.

How much does a gold Byzantine chain weigh?

Weight depends on width, length, and karat. A 22-inch 10K Byzantine chain ranges from 17.16 grams (2mm) to 267.96 grams (9mm). The same chain in 14K ranges from 20.24 grams to 308.0 grams. At the extreme end, a 9mm Byzantine chain in 14K at 26 inches weighs 364 grams -- nearly a full pound of solid gold. Byzantine chains are among the heaviest chain styles per width due to their dense interlocking weave.

What is a Byzantine box chain?

A Byzantine box chain -- also called square Byzantine -- uses the same 4-in-1 interlocking ring technique but creates a square cross-section instead of a round one. The result is a more geometric, modern-looking chain with a structured profile and sharp edges. It requires tighter ring tolerances and a lower aspect ratio than the standard round Byzantine, making it one of the more technically demanding variations to produce.

Can you shower with a Byzantine chain?

Solid gold will not be damaged by water, but regular showering with a Byzantine chain is not recommended. Soap, shampoo, and conditioner residue builds up inside the tight interlocking links faster than in simpler chain styles. Over time, this residue dulls the chain's sparkle and requires more frequent deep cleaning. For best results, remove your Byzantine chain before showering and clean it weekly.

Why is it called a Byzantine chain?

The name references the Byzantine Empire (330-1453 AD), whose craftsmen developed sophisticated metalworking and chainmail armor techniques. The chain's interlocking ring pattern mirrors the 4-in-1 chainmail weave used in Byzantine military armor. "Byzantine" has also become an English word meaning "intricate and complex" -- an accurate description of the chain's multi-ring construction that distinguishes it from simpler link-based chain designs.

What width Byzantine chain should I get?

For everyday wear and layering, 2mm to 3mm provides subtle texture without commanding attention. For a versatile all-occasion chain, 4mm to 4.5mm is the most popular range -- visible weave, genuine weight, works with anything. For a statement piece, 6mm and above delivers maximum visual impact. Our recommendation for first-time buyers: the 4mm in 10K gold at 22 inches ($7,119.99, 56.32 grams).

Is a Byzantine chain a good investment?

Solid gold Byzantine chains hold intrinsic value based on their gold weight. A 9mm 14K Byzantine chain at 22 inches contains 308 grams of 14K gold -- a substantial amount of precious metal with real melt value. Beyond raw material value, the craftsmanship involved in the intricate 4-in-1 weave adds a premium. Byzantine chains also have consistent resale demand in the secondary jewelry market because of their distinctive construction and enduring appeal.