Starting a permanent jewellery business? One of the first questions to ask is:
How much 14k gold filled chain do you need for each bracelet?
The good news is that you don't need a huge amount.
With careful measuring, a small amount of chain can make several permanent jewellery bracelets.
How Much Chain Do You Need for One Bracelet?
Most adult permanent jewellery bracelets use around 16cm to 19cm of chain, depending on the customer's wrist size and how the bracelet is fitted.
A simple guide is:
|
Bracelet size |
Approx. chain needed |
|
Small wrist |
16cm |
|
Average wrist |
17–18cm |
|
Larger wrist |
19–20cm |
Always measure the customer's wrist before cutting.
The chain should sit comfortably around the wrist.
It is not advisable to cut every bracelet to exactly the same length.
How Many Bracelets Can You Make From 1 Metre?
One metre contains 100cm of chain.
For example, if you use approximately 18cm per bracelet:
100cm ÷ 18cm = about 5.5 bracelets
So, one metre can make approximately 5 adult bracelets, with some chain left over.
Your actual number will depend on:
- Wrist size
- Bracelet length
- Chain design
- How much chain you allow for fitting
- Any wastage when cutting
This is why buying chain by the metre can be a very economical option for permanent jewellery artists.
How Much Chain Is in One Foot?
One foot is approximately 30.5cm.
At around 17–18cm per bracelet, one foot will generally make one bracelet, with some chain left over.
Buying by the foot is useful when you are:
- Testing a new chain
- Starting your permanent jewellery business
- Adding a new chain style
- Making a small number of bracelets
- Trying different chain designs
Once you know which chains your customers love, buying by the metre can make more sense.

Why 14k Gold Filled Chain Is Popular for Permanent Jewellery
14k gold filled chain gives permanent jewellery artists the beautiful look of gold without the cost of solid gold.
It is a popular choice for:
- Permanent bracelets
- Permanent anklets
- Permanent necklaces
- Jewellery-making
- Friendship bracelets
- Custom jewellery
The chain you choose also affects the finished look.
A delicate chain creates a fine, subtle bracelet.
A heavier chain creates a bolder look.
This is why it is useful to have several chain styles available for your customers.
How Much Chain Should You Order?
If you are just starting, you don't need to buy huge quantities.
You can start small and test which styles your customers prefer.
For example:
1 foot
Good for testing a chain.
1 metre
Enough for approximately 5 adult bracelets, depending on wrist sizes.
Several metres
Better for busy permanent jewellery artists, parties, pop-ups and events.
At SSAV Jewellery Wholesale Australia, you can buy 14k gold filled chain by the foot or by the metre, so you can order according to your business needs.
No MOQ.
You don't have to commit to large wholesale quantities just to try a new chain.
Don't Forget Chain Waste
When calculating your costs, allow for a little extra chain.
You may need additional chain when:
- Measuring a customer's wrist
- Cutting the chain
- Adjusting the bracelet
- Making a mistake
- Testing your welding technique
This small amount of wastage should be included when working out your bracelet cost.
For example, if your chain costs $200 per metre and you make five bracelets from that metre, your approximate chain cost is:
$200 ÷ 5 = $40 per bracelet
You can then add your other costs and set your selling price.
This makes it much easier to work out your profit.
What Is the Best Chain Length for Permanent Jewellery?
There is no single bracelet length that suits everyone.
A customer's wrist size will always be the best guide.
For a typical adult wrist, 17cm–18cm is a useful starting point.
Measure first.
Cut second.
Weld last.
This helps reduce wasted chain and gives your customer a more comfortable fit.

Buy 14k Gold Filled Chain From an Australian Wholesale Supplier
SSAV Jewellery Wholesalers supplies 14k gold filled chains for permanent jewellery and jewellery making.
You can order according to your business needs.
- Buy by the foot or by the metre
- No MOQ
- Worldwide shipping
- Quality guaranteed
- Superfast daily shipping
Whether you are a beginner or an established permanent jewellery artist, buying smaller quantities lets you test different chains before committing to larger orders.
Browse the SSAV range of 14k gold filled chains and find the styles that suit your permanent jewellery business.
Or call 61-0450 690 991 for assistance with choosing chains and charms. We love helping artists. We can customize a starter kit to your budget and needs.
Call us - we're open 7am to 9pm daily!