Yes, there’s a big difference between the Plain Franco Chains and the Diamond Cut Franco Chains. Aesthetics are the biggest differentiating factor for customers picking one over the other. For starters, the Franco is a series of extremely tight and box-like links. These links in men's solid gold chains are machine-made in Italy and actually have two faces. One side has continuous V-shapes, and the other side is more boxy.
Depending on which angle you look from, the Franco can look like two different chains. Francos have two measurements. The V-shaped side is usually narrower than the boxy side, which is wider. The final measurement of the Franco is determined by the widest angle. The Diamond Cut Franco has a more rounded appearance, whereas the Plain Franco is more box-like and sleek. The Plain Franco chain does not have any fancy cuts, but the Diamond Cut Franco is multifaceted with a series of cuts that give it its shine.
What Is a Franco Chain, Exactly?
A Franco chain is built from a series of extremely tight, box-shaped links, machine-made in Italy. Each link has two faces, which is part of what makes the Franco unusual among gold chain styles, which is popular in streetwear. One side shows a continuous run of V-shapes, while the other reads as more squared-off and boxy. Turn the chain slightly, and it can look like two different chains depending on the angle you catch it from.
Unlike many traditional chain styles, the Franco lays flat, resists tangling, and rarely catches facial hair, making it comfortable for everyday wear. Each Franco chain actually has two visible profiles:
- One side displays continuous V-shaped patterns.
- The opposite side appears more square and box-like.
Because of these two profiles, the chain can look slightly different depending on the viewing angle and how it rests around your neck.
Manufacturers measure a Franco chain using its widest side, which explains why its listed width may appear larger than its V-shaped face.
Also Read: What is the Saint Franco Chain?
Diamond Cut Franco Chain
A Diamond Cut Franco chain starts as the same Franco design but goes through an additional finishing process.
During manufacturing, jewelers carefully cut multiple tiny facets into the surface of every link. These precision cuts act like small mirrors that catch and reflect light from different angles.
As a result, the chain appears brighter, more reflective, and slightly rounder. More luxurious in different lighting conditions. Despite the name, a Diamond Cut Franco chain does not contain diamonds. The term "diamond cut" simply refers to the polished facets added to the gold.
This finish makes the chain a favorite for people who want their men's gold jewelry to stand out without adding gemstones. You can also wear it with solid gold earrings for men to get a complete look.
Plain Franco Chain
The Plain Franco chain keeps the original link design without decorative surface cuts.
Instead of reflecting light through multiple facets, the polished gold creates a smooth, consistent finish. Many buyers prefer this style because it offers a clean appearance, classic styling, minimalist design, and easy everyday wear.
The squared edges remain more noticeable, giving the chain a sharper and more structured profile than the Diamond Cut version.
Diamond Cut Franco vs Plain Franco
| Feature | Diamond Cut Franco | Plain Franco |
| Shine | High light reflection | Soft natural shine |
| Surface | Multi-faceted finish | Smooth polished finish |
| Appearance | Bold and eye-catching | Clean and understated |
| Profile | Slightly rounded look | More box-like look |
|
Everyday Wear |
Excellent | Excellent |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comfort | Comfortable and hair-friendly | Comfortable and hair-friendly |
Browse our exclusive Men Franco Gold Chains.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Diamond Cut Franco was one of Saints Gold's two best-selling chains in 2021, and demand for it has stayed strong since. Buyers are drawn to how it reflects light and shines while still reading as a classic chain rather than a trend piece. When customers go back and forth between the two styles, the Diamond Cut version tends to win out. Pricing between the two sits close together, so shine ends up being the deciding factor more often than cost.
That said, plenty of buyers prefer the Plain Franco specifically because it doesn't shine as aggressively. If you're layering chains, wearing one daily under clothing, or just prefer a quieter look, the Plain Franco is the better fit.
