My mother bought this absolutely stunning Baht chain necklace in Thailand in the 1970s. She and I shared, enjoyed and loved the necklace for decades. She eventually gave it to me, but when I started designing jewelry I stopped wearing anything else but my own. This necklace has been sitting in a drawer way too long... it's time for someone to love this as much as I. You've wanted to own such an amazing piece for a long time... you owe it to yourself to act now- you deserve this!
Backstory of Baht Chains
Baht chains were use as currency in Thailand before standardized paper and coin currency existed. Bahts are the basic monetary unit of Thailand, equal to 100 satangs. A "baht chain" is a gold chain, particularly popular in Thailand, where "baht" is a unit of weight for gold, equivalent to 15.244 grams. Thai gold jewelry, especially baht chains, is a popular form of investment and a symbol of wealth and status in Thai culture.
The necklace is a result of traditional craftsmanship and centuries of refinement. The bold interlocking links exude elegance and resilience, strength and sophistication, timeless, luxurious, a piece of tradition, future heirloom, and smart investment that never goes out of style.
Versatile, it can be worn as a statement piece or paired with a cherished pendant.
The curved M shape clasp adds beauty and elegance to the security and provides a beautiful place to attach a favorite charm or pendant.
While not explicitly tied to Thai mythology or Buddhism, the M shape has been loosely associated with mountains (stability) or Buddhist temple roofs, both of which represent strength and enlightenment in Thai culture.
Baht chains were also very popular with American soldiers stationed in Thailand during the Vietnam war. Worn for the enviable look, and also to have something to barter in the event of capture or emergency in hostile territory, helping stranded soldiers secure passage or aid to bribe their way back to freedom.
This practical use of gold jewelry as an "escape currency" wasn’t exclusive to Americans or the Vietnam War; it has been a survival strategy in various conflicts throughout history. As I write this gold prices are skyrocketing, and the stock market is plunging in a particularly bad few days. Perhaps this will be a stunning survival strategy for you, too.
27” Long
Weight: 75.7 G, 2.675 oz
Chain 3.18 mm thick
Clasp 14 x 17 mm
Stamped: 100%
Please note: I have seen images of this chain opened. There is no hinge on the clasp, so the gold would have to be twisted to remove the chain. It seems to me that this will weaken the gold and the clasp would eventually break. This necklace has never been opened that way, so in perfect condition. The chain is long enough to easily slip on over the head. If you want to attach your own pendants I can get you clasps that look like part of the design, and easily link pendant to the necklace. Please see the photo of the round push-in clasp as example.
