Where you actually want it
Come in wearing the top you wear it with. Chain length is one of those things that is obvious on your neck and impossible to judge on a counter. We will hold it at a couple of lengths and you will know within a few seconds.
Rough guide: 16 inches sits at the base of the neck, 18 just below, 20 to 22 on the collarbone or a little under, 24 and up onto the chest. A pendant changes where it hangs, so bring that too.
How it is done
The chain is opened at the right point, the extra section is removed, and the clasp and jump ring are reattached to the new end link. The join is soldered so it will not open under load. Done properly you cannot tell where it was shortened.
Keep the piece we take off
It goes back to you. It is gold, silver or whatever the chain is, and it is yours. If you ever want the chain lengthened again, matching metal to metal is much easier when the original is in a bag in your drawer.
Going the other way
Lengthening is possible too, and it depends on matching the chain. Bring it in and we will see what can be matched.
Questions we get asked
Can you shorten it while I wait?
Usually. Walk in during mall hours and wear the top you normally wear it with.
Do I get the removed piece back?
Yes, every time. It is your metal.
Will the join show?
No. It is soldered, filed and polished back to match the links around it.
Can you make a chain longer?
Sometimes, depending on matching the chain. Bring it in and we will look.
Not sure we can fix it?
Send a couple of details and we will call you back. Or just walk in — it is quicker, and we can actually look at the piece.
Drop it off, shop the mall, wear it tonight
We are inside Orland Square Mall in Orland Park. Walk in during mall hours, no appointment. Most repairs are finished the same day and a good number while you wait.
Where we are
Julio's Jewelry, 800 Orland Square Drive, Orland Park, IL 60462 — inside Orland Square Mall. Mon–Thu 10am–8pm · Fri–Sat 10am–9pm · Sun 11am–6pm. We are also at North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 W Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546.