A semi-solid chain is a type of gold chain that has the same look as a solid gold chain but has an empty/hollow core. Our semi-solid chains are 100% genuine .585 14K Yellow Gold but are lighter and more affordable than solid gold chains.
Semi-solid and hollow may seem like the same thing but it is not; they are denser and heavier than hollow chains, but still not fully solid all the way through. This is achieved by designing each link of the chain to have thicker walls than normal hollow chains so that they do not damage as easily.
It is a wonderful cost saving alternative for customers to offer a very similar look, feel, and durability of a solid gold chain — while using less gold, making it more affordable.
Let’s break it down clearly:
What "Semi-Solid" Means
- Solid chain: 100% gold alloy (e.g., 14K or 18K), all the way through.
- Hollow chain: Made from thin gold tubing that’s hollow inside — light, but can dent or crush very easily.
- Semi-solid chain: Made with thicker walls than a hollow chain, reinforced internally. Can still dent or crush but shouldn’t if taken correct care of.
How Semi-Solid Gold Chains Are Made
The manufacturing process combines elements of both solid and hollow chain production:
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Gold alloy preparation:
- The manufacturer starts by mixing pure gold with metals like copper, silver, or zinc to create 10K, 14K, or 18K yellow, white and pink gold. -
Tubing or wire forming:
- The gold is drawn into a thick-walled tube or wire. This tube may have a small core of metal or resin to add density and prevent crushing. -
Link creation:
- The tube is cut and shaped into individual links (Cuban, rope, curb, etc.) using specialized chain-making machines and the chain is placed into a solution that disintegrates and removes the inner core, leaving only the outer gold layer. -
Soldering & assembly:
- Each link is assembled and soldered and then the chain is cleaned, and polished. -
Finishing:
- The chain is polished, diamond-cut, or electroplated (if needed) to give it a high-end look similar to a solid chain.
Why It’s Popular
- Looks like solid gold
- Heavier and stronger than hollow chains
- Costs less than solid
- Won’t dent easily like hollow ones
Things to Note
- Still not as durable as a fully solid chain.
- Can’t always be resized or repaired easily if the core is resin or another filler.
- Should be bought from a trusted jeweler, like Ross Metals, since the term “semi-solid” isn’t strictly regulated — quality varies by manufacturer.