I used to believe all jewelry was essentially identical—especially those bold, eye-catching Full Crystal Stone Cuban chains popular with rappers. Why pay $50 when a $20 version looks the same in pictures?
I learned my lesson through some unfortunate experiences. My skin developed a green tint, and stones would drop off while I was simply walking down the street. If you want streetwear jewelry that actually holds up, upgrading is non-negotiable. This is my story of moving from subpar pieces to finding genuine quality.
Here’s what changes when you stop buying the absolute cheapest options:
My first chain cost $20 and lasted just three weeks. It was marketed as a "Gold Color Hiphop Style Men's Necklace" in a Cuban link design, which sounded perfect online.
In reality, the chain felt hollow and lightweight, almost like plastic. The gold plating was as thin as spray paint. The moment it came into contact with sweat or water, the plating began to flake away, exposing the cheap base metal—usually a nickel or zinc alloy—which then reacted with my skin and left a green stain.
The clasp was a weak hook that you could bend with your fingers. I nearly lost the chain twice just from taking off a heavy winter beanie.
What was the issue? Inferior materials. To cut costs, manufacturers apply an extremely thin plating that looks good in photos but deteriorates almost immediately with wear.
Verdict: Avoid chains under $25. They’re essentially disposable. It’s better to save a little more.
I moved up to the $40 range. These chains were... acceptable. They typically use brass as the base metal, which is an improvement—it has more heft and gives the chain a more authentic feel.
The plating was noticeably thicker. Instead of fading within a week, it lasted about two months of regular wear. I felt confident enough to wear it with nicer outfits and my favorite winter beanie without embarrassment.
The major drawback at this level was the crystal setting. Most Cuban chains in this range feature glued-in stones rather than secure settings. After a few weeks, gems began to pop out, leaving unsightly gaps that made the chain look cheap.
What was the issue? A decent core material let down by poor craftsmanship. Manufacturers save money by not properly securing the stones.
Verdict: Suitable for occasional wear, like a special night out. But for daily streetwear, this tier won’t hold up long-term.