Initial Jewelry Is Trending, and We’ve Found the Best Styles!
We've gathered pretty initial necklace options for every style and budget.
In a fashion landscape that has been consistently more individualistic during recent years, it's no wonder a demand for initial jewelry is on the rise. Of course, trend cycles will always exist and fads will come and go, but the emphasis on developing your own personal sense of style has never been stronger than it is today, at least in modern memory. So, even though necklaces that feature the first letter of your name (or someone you love) are currently trending, the variety within that space is vast and diverse in terms of aesthetic, material and of most importantly...price.
Many of the more affordable jewelry options are made of plated metals, while the premium items are created from pure golds. From the most sophisticated minimal designs to bold unexpected combinations, there’s a genre of jewelry for a whole host of personal tastes within these two sides of the budget spectrum. And what’s more, they’re from your favorite stores that offer fast shipping, with many having in-stock options for you to buy online and pick up in store in time to wrap. Ahead, a list of the 25 best initial necklaces for reflecting your own unique sartorial choices. You’ll want to zip through this round up like you’re going through the alphabet, because these styles are on many wish lists!
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Best Initial Necklaces
1. 14K Gold Plated Initial Charm Heart Choker Pendant Necklace, $12.99 at Walmart
At just under $13, this delicate heart charm necklace from Walmart evokes a much more expensive look. Its small centerpiece is made from 14K gold filled metal and engraved with an uppercase letter. Available in all letters of the alphabet, consider this affordable style for group gifting. Your besties will love the simple design and adjustable chain length! 14K Gold Plated Initial Charm Heart Choker Pendant Necklace, $12.99 at Walmart
2. Gold Tone Crimped Initial Pendant Necklace, Originally $40, Now $21.99 at Kohl's
For a funky vibe that doesn’t break the bank, this gold tone necklace from Kohl’s checks many boxes. The circle pendant features a crimped design with cut-out lines fanning out from the center to the edge. The initial letter is also a cut-out, letting the color of whatever top you’re wearing peek through. Gold Tone Crimped Initial Pendant Necklace, Originally $40, Now $21.99 at Kohl's
3. Initial Necklace, $36 at Macy’s
Though minimal jewelry continues to be a reliable trend, more ornate styles certainly have their place in our jewelry boxes. This initial necklace from Macy’s features a less common design where the chain is affixed at two different points on the pendant. This means you’ll never have that annoying issue of re-adjusting your jewelry throughout the day when the necklace clasp inevitably sneaks around front. The chain itself is an interesting mix of simple links and solid cylindrical components, while the initials are adorned with details reminiscent of the kind of metal work you might expect to see on an old church. And at $36, this regal necklace is still a relatively accessible price point. Initial Necklace, $36 at Macy’s
4. Monogram Pendant Necklace, $38 at Anthropologie
For a contemporary aesthetic, look no further than this best selling initial necklace from Anthropologie. This style has a similar chain element that attaches to the pendant at two points. However instead of being affixed at the top of the letter charm, each side of the chain is attached on opposite ends of the letter, suspending it in an artsy sideways position. Offered in every single letter, this piece has quickly become a fan favorite. Check out the 500+ reviews and 4.5-star rating to learn how it has become many people’s daily statement piece. Monogram Pendant Necklace, $38 at Anthropologie
5. Initial Pendant Necklace, $40 at Nordstrom
This initial pendant necklace by the brand Panacea is equal parts dainty and cool. The small letter charms are designed to dangle gently from the micro chain, which has a crystal accent fixed along its length. The proportions and intriguing embellishment add a special something to this style. Grab your own initial necklace from Nordstrom for just $40 before your preferred letter is out of stock. Initial Pendant Necklace, $40 at Nordstrom
6. Initial Disc Layered Pendant Necklace in 18K Gold-Plated Sterling Silver, Originally $100, Now $52 at Macy’s
Shoppers in search of a deal, meet the initial disc necklace by Giani Bernini. For a limited time, this $100 necklace is on sale for just $52 with code JOY. When you technically get the look of two necklaces, it's an even better score! The shorter of the two chains is a cable link style, with the longer one in a figaro pattern. The simple pendant features an engraved letter in a bold san serif font. Made from 18K gold over sterling silver, it's no wonder why this necklace is in high demand. Initial Disc Layered Pendant Necklace in 18K Gold-Plated Sterling Silver, Originally $100, Now $52 at Macy’s
7. Mixed Crystal Initial 18K Gold-Plated Necklace, $45 at Saks Fifth Avenue
Anything but basic, this mixed crystal initial necklace from Saks Fifth Avenue is a unique twist on a classic jewelry piece. Instead of being made out of solid metal or embellished with crystals, this pendant features various shapes and sizes of gems that make up each letter. This combination results in a look that’s simultaneously artsy and elevated. The 18K gold-plated material and 5” adjuster make this piece incredibly versatile. At just $45, we see why some letters are already sold out. Mixed Crystal Initial 18K Gold-Plated Necklace, $45 at Saks Fifth Avenue
8. Initial This Gold-Plated and Enamel Necklace, Originally $65, Now $45.50 at Net-A-Porter
This square pendant style stands out in a sea of circles as a playful and striking statement piece. The indent of the letter is filled with a red enamel that pops beautifully in contrast with the gold-plated finish of the box. Strung through by a beaded chain, the juxtaposition of toy-like jewelry in refined materials is totally eye-catching. Plus, it's 30% off right now! Wear this one solo or stacked with other unique chains for maximum impact. Initial This Gold-Plated and Enamel Necklace, Originally $65, Now $45.50 at Net-A-Porter
9. 14K Gold Plated Paige Initial Pendant, $98 at Macy’s
This initial pendant feels like something you’d expect your cool, well-traveled relative to wear on their visits from abroad. The chain has a mix-and-match twist, with one side being a tiny curb chain while the other is a medium-sized link chain. The proportions of the two styles, plus the extra center ring that serves as the fixed point for the chains and pendant to connect, result in a look that’s simple and excitingly eccentric. 14K Gold Plated Paige Initial Pendant, $98 at Macy’s
10. Initial Pendant Necklace, $50 at Nordstrom
For a retro feel without an antique price point, check out this initial necklace from the brand Bracha. The rectangular pendant features a capital letter surrounded by a perimeter of design lines that resemble a ray of sunshine moving out towards the edges. A triangular pendant connector piece and figaro chain amp up the vintage vibes. Check out the over 250 reviews to see why this handcrafted piece has captured the hearts of so many. Initial Pendant Necklace, $50 at Nordstrom
11. Initial Necklace, Originally $70, Now $56 at Madewell
Known for their extensive collection of best selling denim, Madewell stocks elevated accessories from sunglasses to jewelry too. The 15” gold-filled cable link chain carries a small 18K gold-plated brass letter charm. This shorter length allows the initial to sit gently near your collarbone. Currently discounted yet available through the whole alphabet, this is a classic streamlined choice great for gifting or treating yourself. Heads up though, because this style is on sale, it's not eligible for returns. Initial Necklace, Originally $70, Now $56 at Madewell
12. Kate Spade New York One In A Million Initial Pendant Necklace, $58 at Nordstrom
This Kate Spade New York piece is a quintessential initial necklace with a twist. A reflective gold-plated pendant hangs from a small scale rolo chain. While the front side of the charm features a simple capital initial, the other side is engraved with the words “one in a million” for a little extra confidence boost. Despite its dainty size, the chain is a refreshing 17” with a 3” extender making this style ideal for people with long torsos! Go ahead and snag your preferred letter before they’re all gone. Kate Spade New York One In A Million Initial Pendant Necklace, $58 at Nordstrom
13. Cubic Zirconia Initial Necklace, $60 at Neiman Marcus
For an elegant aesthetic with a little bit of sparkle, this initial necklace from Neiman Marcus might be just what you need. Petite cubic zirconia crystals embellish the body of each uppercase letter charm. Another larger gem has been worked into the chain on one side, giving the necklace a subtle asymmetric flair. In stock in most letter options (sorry to Amandas and Natalies), we totally get why this is a top gifting pick at the luxury retailer! Cubic Zirconia Initial Necklace, $60 at Neiman Marcus
14. Kendra Scott Initial Pendant Necklace, $65 at Nordstrom
Beloved by a wide range of celebrities, from Gwyneth Paltrow and Mindy Kaling to Zendaya and the Hadid sisters, Kendra Scott makes covetable jewelry at surprisingly accessible prices, given their famous clientele. This intricate style is the perfect example. The letter pendants are rhodium-plated, and available in both a gold and silver tone. Rhodium is in the platinum family, so it’s built to last. The letters themselves have small leaves etched into the surface of the charm, and are affixed to a hybrid chain that pairs the classic cable style with solid metal beads worked in. For only $65, we can see why this quality piece is going fast! Kendra Scott Initial Pendant Necklace, $65 at Nordstrom
15. Monogram Charm Necklace, $75 at Nordstrom
For a bespoke piece at a department store price, you need to see this monogram necklace by Sorrelli. Each letter charm is designed with a unique combination of various sized crystals. The plated metals have a gold tone to them, which provides a beautiful contrast to the cooler colored glass jewels. All of these thoughtful elements combine to create an eye-catching necklace that has everyday appeal. Though it's just $75, this piece could easily be mistaken for an expensive custom pendant. Monogram Charm Necklace, $75 at Nordstrom
16. BYCHARI Demi-Fine Initial Necklace, $80 at Madewell
Simple and elevated, this initial necklace from the small business BYCHARI is part of Madewell’s Marketplace brands. Their take on the letter charm pendant style features a unique gold-plated tone that reads closer to rose gold than yellow or white. The pendants themselves also have a slightly brushed quality that adds a lot of visual depth. Paired with a shiny cable link chain, the result is a luxe addition to your daily jewelry collection. Don’t snooze on this stylish favorite, several letters are already all sold out. BYCHARI Demi-Fine Initial Necklace, $80 at Madewell
17. Personalized Initial Birthstone Pendant Necklace, Originally $274.98, Now Starting at $96.24 at JCPenney
If you’re already hoping to don some personal insignia with your own initial necklace, why not add a birthstone to make it even more you? That’s what the designers of this customizable pendant piece must have been thinking anyway. The lowercase letter charm is made of 10K white gold and plated in rhodium for durability. Originally priced at $274.98, it’s since been reduced to $137.59, which is 50% off. Right now with coupon code NICEBUY9, you can purchase the necklace for $96.24. Personalized Initial Birthstone Pendant Necklace, Originally $274.98, Now Starting at $96.24 at JCPenney
18. Initial 10K Gold Necklace, Originally $195, Now $97.50 at Net-A-Porter
This initial necklace from jewelry label Stone and Strand offers an ultra minimal refinement on an already streamlined style. Handcrafted in 10K gold, the sleek letter charms hang from a slim box chain instead of the more common cable link variety. The lightweight design is ideal for a layered look as it doesn’t take up too much visual real estate. It's currently 50% off at Net-A-Porter. What more could you ask for this year? You do have a bit of competition though, as this super deal is selling super fast. Initial 10K Gold Necklace, Originally $195, Now $97.50 at Net-A-Porter
19. Bubble Tea Initial Pendant Necklace, $150 at Nordstrom
If the classic options are so not your style, fear not. Check out this bubble charm necklace that is anything but expected. The rounded letter pendants are made from sterling silver and finished with 10K gold-plating. A super fine cable link chain made of gold vermeil provides an intriguing contrast to the volume of the monogram pendants. Already sold out in five letters, this playful alternative is a fan favorite. Bubble Tea Initial Pendant Necklace, $150 at Nordstrom
20. 14K Gold Initial Pendant Necklace, $575 at Kohl’s
Shoppers on the hunt for the ultimate initial necklace have come to the right webpage. This pendant features a chunky initial, which will stand out against any outfit. Made of 14K gold, it is a classic edition for your jewelry collection. Available in nearly every letter except for a few, this necklace is not one to drag your metaphorical feet on. 14K Gold Initial Pendant Necklace, $575 at Kohl’s
21. Mother-of-Pearl Initial Pendant Necklace, $195 at Neiman Marcus
When you hear the words mother-of-pearl and Neiman Marcus in the same sentence, we bet that this necklace was pretty far off from what most people might picture. The chunky initial pendant is made from a dreamy mother-of-pearl material that's dotted with black onyx studs for a high contrast effect. The elongated link chain offers an equally whimsical edge. Designed with bold dressers in mind, the 22K yellow gold plated brass offers durability, while the 4” extender gives wearers a variety of styling options. Mother-of-Pearl Initial Pendant Necklace, $195 at Neiman Marcus
22. 14K Yellow Gold Initial Pendant Necklace, $225 at Bloomingdale’s
If quality simplicity is what you’re after, opt for this best selling style from Bloomingdale’s. While the 14K yellow gold material justifies the $225 price point, the chic timeless quality of the design is bound to deliver for countless wears well worth the cost. Don’t just take our word for it though, check out the satisfied shoppers who have added this piece to their personal collection. And you’ll want to do that soon, as only 18 of the 26 letters remain available! 14K Yellow Gold Initial Pendant Necklace, $225 at Bloomingdale’s
23. 14K Dainty Old English Initial Necklace, $250 at Express
A sweet petite quality meets a gothic edgy element in this harmonious initial necklace. The scale of the cable link chain and tiny letter pendant give the piece its elevated quality, while the recycled 14K gold metal backs up the $250 price tag. The alternative twist comes from the old English letter style, which evokes a more eccentric aesthetic than the sleek san serif fonts more frequently seen in the jewelry market. Wear it solar or accompanied by stacks of interesting chains, jewels and beads. 14K Dainty Old English Initial Necklace, $250 at Express
24. Petite Sterling Silver Initial Locket Necklace, $295 at Neiman Marcus
Birthstones aren’t the only way to personalize a piece of jewelry. This locket design features two tiny photo slots so you can put in images of those you hold dear or maybe even a special place or occasion that you hold close to your heart. Created from a sterling silver material, the oval charm is engraved with tiny lines that give the capital serif letters the appearance of being outlined. A few small gems add some shine to the top of the locket fixture. Every reviewer has given this piece a 5-star rating, which makes sense given that it's already not available in four letters! Petite Sterling Silver Initial Locket Necklace, $295 at Neiman Marcus
25. Initial Pendant Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold, $675 at Bloomingdale’s
You must see this Bloomingdale’s exclusive design. Short, bold capital letter charms are strung through at the top by a micro box chain that gives off an expensive glimmer. Initial Pendant Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold, $675 at Bloomingdale’s
