How to say "necklace" in Japanese

• ネックレスJLPT N2approx.Common
  nounThe straightforward word for a necklace as jewelry, whether beads, a chain, or a pendant. Use it in most situations, such as shopping for one or describing what someone is wearing.
  その婦人ふじんは真珠しんじゅのネックレスをかけていた。↗

  The lady wore a necklace of pearls.
• 首飾りくびかざりJLPT N1approx.Common
  nounA general word for an ornament worn around the neck, covering both necklaces and chokers. Its descriptive flavor presents the piece as neck decoration rather than naming a specific type of jewelry.
  彼女かのじょは高価こうかな首飾くびかざりをしています。↗

  She is wearing an expensive necklace.
• 首輪くびわJLPT N1approx.Common
  nounChiefly the word for a collar, as a dog or cat wears. It can mean a close-fitting band around the neck, a choker, but it is seldom the word you want for an ordinary necklace.

Use 「ネックレス」 for a necklace as jewelry; 「首飾り」 is a broader word for ornaments worn around the neck, covering necklaces and chokers; 首輪 is chiefly an animal collar and seldom what you want for jewelry.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• ネックレスnecklace
• 首飾りくびかざりnecklace
• 頸飾けいしょくnecklace
• 瓔珞ようらくpersonal ornament (adorned with gemstones, and usu. worn by the nobility in ancient India or adorning Buddhist statues)
• 首輪くびわnecklace