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The Best Initial Necklaces from A to Z—to Gift Yourself or Others | Vogue

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The Best Initial Necklaces from A to Z—to Gift Yourself or Others | Vogue

To revisit this article, select My Account, then View saved stories

By Laura Lajiness Kaupke and Gaby Keiderling

All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.

Even though the holiday season has come and gone, the hunt for thoughtful presents never ends. Initial necklaces are one such jewelry gift perfect for special occasions, be it an upcoming birthday (yours included!), Valentine’s Day, anniversary, or more.

From delicate chains to bold pendants and glittering diamonds, there are endless options for accessorizing. Whether the metal preference is white or yellow gold, silver, or so-modern rose gold, a lovely letter always stands out, no matter if it’s small and delicate or weightier and mixed with heavy chain links and beads. Of course, birthstones, charms, and astrological jewelry are stylish personalized adornments. Yet, there’s nothing quite like a metal-worked or diamond-encrusted “A,” “B,” or “C” to showcase a letter or initial.

Some of the most popular and easy-to-wear initial necklaces come from some of our favorite jewelry brands, from Mejuri to Jennifer Meyer, are dainty and often rendered in script, block, or gothic letters. At the same time, baguette stones, glittering pavé, and oversize letters amount to bolder initial jewelry moments. Of course, gemstones, pearls, and enamel touches make for a more striking lettered necklace, too.

When worn alone in all its glory, they'll glean more of a minimal look from an initial necklace. Or, take things in a maximalist direction by combining several letters on the same chain or layering several to represent their first and last name, a favorite word, or as a playful homage, a pet’s name, favorite mantra, a nickname? Whatever their preference, they can layer all types of initial necklaces beautifully, like with other chains, charms, and pendants.

From affordable jewelry finds to lust-worthy fine designs, scroll on for Vogue’s edit of the very best initial necklaces representing each letter of the alphabet. As you shop for presents this year—whoever it may be for—do so with a personal touch.

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Keep it simple with this Mejuri bestseller, which comes in at a sweet, under-$250 price point.

For something bolder, Roberto Coin delivers a script font set with pavé diamonds.

Choose a chain to slip this mini charm onto. It's dainty, but the diamonds that add a delicate touch of sparkle.

This gold block letter hangs from a link chain, creating a structured, yet sophisticated look.

Show how much you know your giftee with this necklace featuring their initial and birthstone.

This tiny pendant rests between the collarbones in the most delicate way.

Elsa Peretti alphabet letter 'G' pendant

A jewelry roundup isn’t complete without something from Tiffany & Co. Elegant lowercase lettering puts the brand’s timeless simplicity front and center.

asymmetric initial and diamond necklace

Switch up the placement of the initial with a letter that rests on the upper part of the collarbone. The diamond in the center adds a glimmer of sparkle.

gold pavé diamond initial necklace

Bring on the bling with this diamond-studded letter, a foolproof choice for any loved one.

Bea Bongiasca’s playful font and color choice delivers an element of whimsy to the look.

pearl ID carved 'K' initial charm

Pearls and pavé diamonds? Say less. This charm can be clipped onto a choker or longer chain—your choice!

Sydney Evan's high-quality, timeless style glints with glamour as it hangs from its chain.

letter charm gold diamond necklace

Best known for its coin pendants, Marlo Laz puts a unique spin on the look with an Art Nouveau-inspired font and diamond-encrusted bail.

Turn to Gorjana for cute giftables under $100, like this alphabet necklace that can be easily layered with other pieces in a stack.

gold 'O' diamond initial necklace

Black rhodium and hammered gold detailing adds dramatic flair to this contemporary piece.

Up the volume with a puffy piece that can be layered or worn on its own.

two-tone paper clip initial necklace

Can’t decide between silver or gold? Adina Reyter says you don't have to choose.

A diamond letter set on a delicate gold chain makes for a necklace that’ll never lose its appeal.

gold A2Z heart-shaped necklace

With love at the forefront, Savolinna’s heart encases the dazzling initial.

rainbow gold and gemstone 'T' necklace

Lure the maximalist’s eye in with this colorful gemstone creation.

Prefer a more abstract take on the initial trend? This curly letter fits the bill.

David Yurman's signature Cable motif encircles the pendant, making it recognizably chic.

From eco-conscious brand Monica Vinader comes an elevated everyday piece that's made from sustainably-sourced materials.

Spoil a loved one with this engravable locket, then add a photo in for extra brownie points—they’ll think of you each time they open it.

Designed to resemble a helium balloon, this artful take adds texture to any look.

pearl and pavé initial choker

As a choker, a pearl chain with a diamond initial is as edgy as it is classy.

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The Best Initial Necklaces from A to Z—to Gift Yourself or Others | Vogue

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