Sculptural and decidedly bold, the contemporary jewelry torque necklace is making a grand comeback. Inherited from antiquity, its rigid line gracefully embraces the neck and highlights the posture. Precious metal, intricate volumes, and vibrant colors make it an exceptional piece of jewelry, at the crossroads of art and fashion.
What is a jewelry torque necklace?
A statement piece, the jewelry torque necklace is distinguished by its rigid or semi-rigid structure that hugs the base of the neck. Open, articulated, or with a clasp, it maintains a sculptural line and enhances the décolletage. In jewelry, it can be minimalist, textured, or enriched with colorful motifs.
- Shape of a rigid or semi-rigid ring.
- Worn close to the neck, usually at the collarbones.
- Features a front, side, or back opening.
- Retains its silhouette, unlike a necklace made of a chain.
- Accommodates sculpted motifs or colorful compositions.
- Immediately adds dimension and character to the décolletage.

Is a torque necklace a rigid necklace?
Yes, the torque necklace belongs to the family of rigid necklaces, even if some models retain slight flexibility or incorporate an articulation. Unlike a chain, its structure maintains a defined shape around the neck. This construction gives it a strong visual presence and allows for precise placement of motifs on the décolletage.
- Its shape remains stable once the jewelry is positioned.
- Its body can be solid, hollow, articulated, or slightly flexible.
- Its curve follows the anatomy of the base of the neck.
- Its decorative elements are oriented forward.
- Its opening facilitates placement without deforming the necklace.
What is the origin of a torque necklace?
The torque necklace originates from antiquity and remains closely associated with Celtic peoples. Made of metal, sometimes twisted and ending with two ornate terminals, it could signify high rank, an honorary function, or symbolic power. Today, jewelry reinterprets its circular and sculptural silhouette.
- Its name comes from the Latin torques, associated with the verb torquere, "to twist".
- Worn in Celtic cultures of the Iron Age.
- Crafted from gold, bronze, silver, or other alloys.
- Terminals adorned with spheres, buffers, or animal figures.
- Symbolizes prestige, authority, protection, or high rank.
In the 1930s, fashion houses began to reinterpret the rigid necklace as a sculptural accessory. In 1937, Elsa Schiaparelli notably designed a metal necklace whose shape directly evoked a collar. From the 1960s and 1970s, the torque necklace thus regained an important place in fashion. It was no longer perceived only as a historical piece of jewelry, but as a strong piece capable of structuring a silhouette. Today, designers are reinventing its volumes, articulations, colors, and ornaments to make it a contemporary necklace, at the frontier of jewelry, art, and fashion. Discover our Una Storia jewelry trends.
Is a torque necklace heavy to wear?
A torque necklace is generally more voluminous than a flexible necklace, but it is not necessarily heavy to wear. Its comfort depends on the total weight, thickness, material distribution, and opening. A well-designed model conforms to the base of the neck and maintains an elegant presence without creating pressure or discomfort.
- Check the weight indicated on the jewelry's product sheet.
- Opt for an ergonomic shape adapted to the curve of the neck.
- Ensure an even distribution of weight between the front and sides.
- Gradually wear the torque necklace before wearing it all day.
Which torque necklace to wear for a wedding ceremony?
With its sculptural shape and assertive presence, the torque necklace enhances a ceremonial outfit and naturally draws attention to the décolletage. It should be worn with a sufficiently open neckline to become the focal point of the silhouette. The color, patterns, and proportions of the model are then chosen according to the dress, hairstyle, and spirit of the wedding.
- Madeira Torque Necklace: To be worn with a flowing ivory or dusty pink dress for a romantic wedding.
- Fauve Torque Necklace: Ideal with a structured navy blue pantsuit for a sophisticated wedding.
- Butterfly Torque Necklace: To be paired with a flowing white jumpsuit for a bohemian chic wedding.
- Jungle Torque Necklace: Perfect with a slightly décolleté turquoise or emerald green dress for an exotic wedding.
- Silver Torque Necklace: To be worn with a monochrome satin dress with clean lines for a minimalist wedding.
To allow the torque necklace to fully occupy the décolletage, opt for a boat neck, square neck, wide V-neck, or strapless neckline. An updo or hair pulled back behind the shoulders also helps to highlight the line of the jewelry. Avoid pairing it with a high collar, very prominent embroidery, or another necklace. Choose discreet earrings to maintain the balance of the silhouette. Finally, try on the torque necklace with your outfit before the ceremony to check its positioning, comfort, and harmony with the fabric colors.
Which flower necklace to offer a woman who loves nature?
A flower necklace is a particularly fitting gift for a woman who appreciates nature. Floral motifs transcend trends thanks to their organic lines and symbolism of renewal or blossoming. Elegant and timeless, this type of jewelry adds an identifiable botanical touch to both everyday and dressed-up outfits.
- Opt for a 925 silver necklace for its brilliance and durability.
- Choose a floral motif with clean and harmonious lines.
- Adapt the volume of the jewelry to the recipient's style.
- Select a balanced length to properly position the motif.
- Consider the symbolism of the chosen flower.
To mark an important occasion, the Madeira torque necklace stands out for its rare character. This numbered creation is offered in a limited edition of only 150 pieces. Crafted from rhodium-plated 925 sterling silver, it brings together a multitude of colorful flowers, enhanced by hand-applied lacquer and the brilliance of cubic zirconia. Its generous floral composition, meticulously detailed, makes it a unique creation to offer to a woman who loves nature, color, and exceptional jewelry.

What type of clasp does UNA STORIA use for its torque necklaces?
On a torque necklace, the clasp directly contributes to the comfort, security, and balance of the jewelry. UNA STORIA favors systems designed jointly by the creative department and artisans, in order to respect the line of the necklace while facilitating its manipulation. Each mechanism must remain reliable, discreet, and adapted to a rigid structure.
- UNA STORIA uses an articulated and secure clasp.
- The mechanism opens and closes directly from the front.
- The front opening allows the jewelry to be manipulated without assistance.
- The articulation follows the movement without excessively spreading the torque.
- The system limits repeated stress on the necklace's structure.
- The clasp discreetly integrates into the jewelry composition.
Both sculptural, elegant, and unique, the torque necklace asserts the character of an outfit while enhancing the posture. Discover all our silver torque necklaces for women, colorful jewelry in rhodium-plated 925 sterling silver, inspired by the art of travel. Crafted by jewelry artisans, these creations reveal precise savoir-faire and a decidedly bold jewelry identity.
Also discover all Una Storia silver jewelry.