## Common ground
All options describe trinket chains based on their material composition and whether they contain real or imitation gemstones, pearls, or precious metals.
## Options at a glance
**7113 – Precious metal or clad**
- **Defining trait:** Contains genuine precious metal (e.g., gold, silver) or metal coated with precious metal.
- **Typical examples:** Gold-plated chain, sterling silver trinket chain.
- **Best fit when:** The chain is made of or features real precious metal components.
**7116.10 – Natural/cultured pearls**
- **Defining trait:** Features natural or cultured pearls as primary decorative elements.
- **Typical examples:** Pearl-studded trinket chain, strand of cultured pearls with small links.
- **Best fit when:** The chain’s main visual feature is one or more pearls.
**7116.20 – Precious/semi-precious stones**
- **Defining trait:** Incorporates real gemstones (e.g., diamond, ruby, amethyst) as decorative elements.
- **Typical examples:** Trinket chain with small sapphires or garnets.
- **Best fit when:** The chain includes genuine stones, not imitation.
**7117 – Imitation jewellery**
- **Defining trait:** Made of non-precious materials mimicking real gemstones or metals (e.g., glass, plastic).
- **Typical examples:** Rhinestone-studded chain, faux gold-plated chain with cubic zirconia.
- **Best fit when:** The chain uses synthetic or low-cost materials to imitate luxury.
## Key differences
| Feature | 7113 (Precious metal) | 7116.10 (Pearls) | 7116.20 (Stones) | 7117 (Imitation) |
|-----------------------|------------------------|------------------|------------------|------------------|
| Material type | Real precious metal | Natural/cultured pearls | Real gemstones | Synthetic/imitation |
| Value & authenticity | High | Medium (pearls) | High | Low |
| Visual hallmark | Metallic sheen | Smooth, lustrous beads | Sparkling facets | Glittering but duller |
## How to choose
- Does it contain real gold, silver, or metal clad with precious metal? → 7113
- Are the main decorations natural or cultured pearls? → 7116.10
- Do the decorative elements include real gemstones (e.g., diamond, ruby)? → 7116.20
- Is it made of glass, plastic, or other non-precious materials to look like real jewellery? → 7117
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A chain with both pearls and imitation stones could fit 7116.10 and 7117. A gold-plated chain with fake gems fits both 7113 and 7117. **No priority rule is given** — choose based on the product’s MAIN feature: if it's primarily about pearls, use 7116.10; if it's about imitation look, use 7117