I am nothing if not a jewelry girl—but only if said jewelry comes in the form of a delicate gold chain or hoop. I'm what you would call a jewelry minimalist: I have the pieces that I love and wear to death. But every now and again, I want to branch out and try something new. And in 2022, I'm obsessed with the idea of a charm necklace. Luckily for me, the options run the gamut from statement-making and bold to calmer, more delicate options that wouldn't look out of place layered over my preexisting collection.
For me, charm necklaces bring back memories of middle school dances (where I was normally very overdressed). But today's iterations don't have to trigger feelings of anxiety about looking like you're trying to emulate something a Gen Z TikToker might wear. Instead, I've rounded up a bunch of the best charm necklaces that seriously spark joy.
From seashell-inspired options that are ready for spring and summer weather to fun and colorful necklaces that are adorned with smiley faces and other icons, I've found them all. Feel free to layer these for maximum impact or just wear one of them on its own for a subtle approach. And thanks to the resurgence of early-aughts trends, you'll probably be able to find a few new charms that you can buy and add to your selection—this is one time where it's truly the more the merrier. And don't be afraid to mix metals! The one-time fashion faux pas is seriously cool this season.
Joey Baby Eloise Necklace
NYC-based label Joey Baby has become known for their selection of playful-yet-elegant pieces. This pearl charm necklace is the perfect way to spruce up your necklace collection this season.
Monica Rich Kosann June Pearl Moon Birthstone Necklace
The slender crescent moon shape of this silver and pearl-adorned necklace makes for the perfect everyday piece.
Gas Bijoux Shaky Charm Necklace
Play with color the adult way thanks to this sparkly piece from Gas Bijoux.
LeLe Sadoughi Safety Pin Charm Necklace
Gold chain necklace lovers, meet your favorite charm necklace, courtesy of Lele Sadoughi.
ByChari Mama Charm Necklace
It's never too early to start shopping for the best-ever Mother's Day gift (hint: it's on May 8). This pick from Michelle Obama-approved brand ByChari is probably already on her wish list.
Jenny Bird Mavi Layered Necklace
Want to layer all your favorite pieces without the hassle? This pick from Jenny Bird makes it easy—and won't leave your chains in knots.
& Other Stories Daisy Charm Necklace
How special is this floral necklace from & Other Stories? It's a steal at only $29.
The M Jewelers Te Amo 10-Karat Gold Necklace
A 10-karat gold heart pendant is hung from a delicate chain for the ideal mix of chunky and sweet.
Jacquemus Le Chiquita Gold-Tone Necklace
If you're already in love with Jacquemus' line of best-selling handbags, you need to pick up this gold chain that features a mini bag charm on the front.
Laura Lombardi Amorina Gold-Plated Necklace
Wear your heart on your neck this season with this chunky gold necklace.
Isabel Marant Shell-Charm Necklace
Summer weather will be here before you know it. Stock up on a few beachy accessories now, like this silver option from Isabel Marant.
Missoma Small Charm Necklace
Missoma makes some of the easiest-to-wear pieces on the market, and this charm necklace is no exception.
Silver Custom Star Crossed Lovers Necklace
Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Halsey, and Addison Rae all love Frasier Sterling's line of affordable, blinged-out jewelry. Live out your early-aughts fantasy with this customizable necklace.
Joolz by Martha Calvo Palm Tree-Charm Pearl & Gold-Plated Necklace
How fun are the smiley charms that are featured on this otherwise simple gold chain?
Adinas Jewels Smiley Face Charm Rainbow Beaded Collar Necklace
Go all-out in the color department with this necklace that features tiny multicolored beads (and a few mini smiley faces, too!).
Brinker & Eliza Lucky Charms Necklace
This necklace has a bunch of different charms to fit any of your moods, including some dainty cherries and a sun.
Jennifer Behr Etoile Necklace
Add another pearl necklace to your collection this season with this sparkly option from Jennifer Behr.
Luv AJ The Bianca Stud Charm Necklace
If you don't want to experiment with a massive charm, this necklace from Luv AJ has your name written all over it. The blink-and-you-miss-it charm at the center of this chain is so pretty.
Kenda Scott Muriel Charm Necklace
The intertwined robe on this necklace from Kendra Scott makes it feel a little cooler than some of the other items on this list.
Stone and Strand Diamond Petal Pendant Necklace
If you're looking to treat yourself to some diamonds this Valentines Day, consider this necklace from Stone and Stand that features of three of them.
Lisa Says Gah Florette Necklace
Lisa Says Gah's clothing selection is second-to-none, but do not overlook their jewelry! This fun flower pendant necklace is so sweet.
Joomi Lin Crystal Choker With Crystal Charms
If you love a little bling on your necklaces, you need to check out this choker from Joomi Lim.
