How to Untangle a Necklace: Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Shine and Style

No matter how you store them, necklaces can sometimes become tangled inside jewelry boxes, handbags, or while traveling. 

A delicate chain is more likely to form stubborn knots even at the slightest rubbing or rolling while stored away, leaving you frustrated and not using it at all. Fortunately, with the right methods, untangling a necklace can be done without causing damage to the necklace or losing patience. 

Read on to explore some techniques to untangle different types of chains, ensuring they remain beautiful, functional, and ready to wear.

Dainty cross pendant necklace

Prepare Your Workspace Before Untangling a Necklace

• Choose a flat, solid surface such as a table or countertop. A smooth background, preferably white or light-colored, makes it easier to spot knots.
  

• Good lighting is essential for untangling a necklace. Natural daylight or a bright lamp helps us see the finest details of the chain.
  

• Gather tools that can aid in untangling, such as straight pins, sewing needles, safety pins, or toothpicks. A magnifying glass may also help for very fine chains.
  

Steps to Untangling Necklaces

Step 1: Lay the Necklace Flat

Spread the necklace out completely, ensuring it’s not hanging or dangling. Keeping it flat prevents further tightening of knots or formation of new knots. Place one end of the clasp away from the other so the full chain is visible.

Step 2: Identify Knots and Tangled Sections

Carefully examine the necklace to see where the chain overlaps or twists. Some knots may appear larger than they actually are. 

Work patiently, focusing on the smallest knot first. If multiple chains are tangled together, separate them by pulling ends apart carefully before addressing individual knots.

Step 3: Loosen the Knot Using Pins

• Carefully insert a needle or straight pin into the center of the knot, ensuring not to scratch the necklace.
  

• Wiggle the tool slowly, creating space in the knot without tugging forcefully.
  

• If needed, use two pins at once, one in each hand, to tease the knot open from both sides. 

(Note: This method works especially well on thin gold or silver chains that easily tighten under tension.)

Step 4: Pull Gently, Never Tug

As knots loosen, resist the urge to pull sharply. A hard tug can easily break delicate chains or in some other patterns, deform links. 

Instead, follow this:

• Guide one end of the chain gently through the knot.
  

• Move slowly, giving the necklace time to free itself.
  

• Continue until the chain slides open completely.
  

Step 5: Clean and Polish After Untangling

Untangling often leaves a chain dull due to oils, powder, or handling. Restoring shine is the final step.

• Warm soapy water works well for some metals. Be sure to dry the necklace with a soft cloth immediately after.
  

• For sterling silver, use a silver polishing cloth to restore brightness.
  

• Dry completely before storing to prevent tarnish or further tangling.
  

Tiny heart necklace

Special Methods for Different Necklace Types

Fine Gold or Silver Chains

These delicate pieces require maximum care. Use pins carefully to avoid scratching soft metal. If you use water, always dry thoroughly after cleaning.

Beaded Necklaces

Beads add complexity, as knots may form between them. Work carefully with pins, moving thread sections instead of pulling beads. 

Multiple Necklaces Tangled Together

Lay them side by side and clasp each necklace first. This helps identify ends on both necklaces. Separate one necklace at a time, untangling outer chains before working toward inner knots.

Quick Hacks for On-the-Go Detangling

Sometimes, you might need to untangle a necklace without tools or workspace. 

In such cases:

• Use fingers and patience. Massage the knot gently between fingertips until it loosens.
  

• Plastic sandwich bag trick: Place the tangled necklace inside a clear bag, zip it, and massage knots through the plastic for better control.
  

How to Prevent Necklaces from Tangling in the Future

Untangling is easier when we store jewelry correctly.

• Store necklaces separately in individual pouches or compartments.
  

• Hang chains vertically on hooks to prevent overlapping.
  

• Thread one end of the necklace through a drinking straw before clasping. This keeps chains straight and knot-free.
  

• Travel cases with soft compartments protect delicate jewelry from movement during trips.
  

Patience Is the Key to Success

Every necklace requires time and care. Rushing the process increases the risk of breakage. By using the right tools, applying gentle pressure, and following proven techniques, you can untangle even the most stubborn knots without damage.

Large zodiac coin pendant necklace

Final Thoughts

Learning how to untangle a necklace ensures you never leave our favorite jewelry unused due to knots. With tools like pins, sewing needles, or toothpicks, combined with patience and proper technique, chains can be restored to perfect condition. 

Smart storage methods further guarantee necklaces remain tangle-free, making every piece ready to wear at any time.

Buy beautiful necklaces made from high-quality materials from the wide range available at the leading jewelry store, bubs & sass.