Italian gold chains have a reputation that precedes them. Ask any goldsmith where the world's best chains are made and the answer is usually the same: Italy. But if you are shopping for an Italian gold chain in Australia, the labels can be confusing. Catenina, Grumetta, Serpente. Solid or hollow. 9ct or 18ct. This guide explains what actually matters, written from inside a working atelier.
What is an Italian gold chain?
An Italian gold chain is simply a chain crafted in Italy, most often in the historic goldsmithing centres of Vicenza and Arezzo. The reputation comes from generations of specialisation: Italian chain makers are known for precise, uniform links, strict gold purity standards and a superior polished finish.
At Lucano, our Italian-made chains are crafted by Italian goldsmiths and then finished and verified in Australia. Our founder trained in Rome through the Università degli Orefici, the Roman goldsmiths' guild established in 1508, so every chain is checked against the standards of that tradition.
What are Italian chains called? A style glossary
Italian chain names describe the link construction. Here are the five classic styles, with their English equivalents:
- Catenina (fine cable chain): small oval links in a delicate continuous line. The slimmest style, ideal for layering and pendants. See the Catenina Chain, 0.9mm in 9ct or 18ct gold.
- Grumetta (curb chain): flat, interlocking oval links twisted to lie uniform against the skin. One of the most popular gold chain styles for men. See the Grumetta Chain, a substantial 4.0mm curb link.
- Serpente (snake chain): smooth, tightly fitted segments that flex like a snake's body with no visible joins. Clean and modern. See the Serpente Chain in 9ct or the finer 18ct Serpente Chain Petite.
- Capezzina (mariner chain): oval links with a central bar, echoing nautical anchor chain. Distinctive without bulk. See the Capezzina Chain, 1.9mm.
- Veneziana (Venetian or box chain): square box-shaped links in a crisp continuous line. One of the strongest constructions for daily wear. See the Venetian Chain, 2.2mm.
9ct gold chain or 18ct: which should you buy?
Both are solid gold. The difference is gold content and character.
9ct gold is 37.5% pure gold, hallmarked 375. It is harder wearing, more affordable and has a slightly cooler yellow tone. For an everyday gold chain in Australia, 9ct is the practical choice.
18ct gold is 75% pure gold, hallmarked 750. It has a richer, deeper colour and feels heavier in the hand. It is the traditional choice for fine Italian jewellery and holds more intrinsic gold value.
Is Italian gold good quality, and how do you tell it's real?
Genuine Italian gold is among the best in the world, but the label gets misused. Three checks protect you:
- Look for the hallmark. Solid gold is stamped 375 (9ct) or 750 (18ct). No stamp is a red flag.
- Ask if it is solid or hollow. Many discounted chains are hollow or plated. Solid gold runs all the way through, wears for decades and can always be repaired. Hollow chains dent and are difficult to fix.
- Buy from a jeweller who can tell you where the gold comes from. Traceability is rare in the chain market. Every Lucano piece uses responsibly sourced gold and carries a lifetime craftsmanship warranty.
Choosing thickness and length
Thickness sets the character. Under 1mm reads as a subtle base for pendants. 2 to 3mm is a versatile everyday weight that works solo or layered. 4mm and above is a statement piece. For length, 45cm is the classic necklace drop for most people; shorter lengths sit closer to the collarbone, longer lengths suit layering.
Frequently asked questions
Are Lucano's chains made in Italy?
Yes. Our Catenina, Capezzina, Grumetta and Serpente chains are made in Italy and verified by Lucano in Australia.
Do gold chains come with a warranty?
Every Lucano piece is backed by a lifetime craftsmanship warranty, with free shipping Australia-wide.
Can I get a custom length or width?
Yes. Every Lucano piece is fully customisable. Contact us for a free consultation.
Ready to compare styles side by side? Browse the full Italian gold chains collection, solid 9ct and 18ct, hallmarked and traceable.
