pendant

What does "pendant" mean?
A pendant is a piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain worn around the neck. The mental image is of a small, decorative object—often featuring a gemstone, a metal charm, or a locket—dangling freely against the chest. It is commonly used to describe items with personal significance, such as a heart-shaped charm or a religious cross. While "necklace" refers to the entire piece of jewelry including the chain, "pendant" specifically refers to the hanging element that can often be removed or swapped onto different chains.
"pendant" in conversation
Choosing a gift
Do you think she would prefer this gold pendant or the silver one?
Do you think she would prefer this gold pendant or the silver one?
The gold one looks more elegant for everyday wear.
The gold one looks more elegant for everyday wear.
Pendants are often discussed in the context of jewelry shopping.
Lost jewelry
I think my pendant fell off my chain while I was running.
I think my pendant fell off my chain while I was running.
Oh no, did you check the clasp? It might just be loose.
Oh no, did you check the clasp? It might just be loose.
This highlights the distinction between the chain and the pendant itself.
"pendant" in a sentence
She wore a simple gold pendant.
She wore a simple gold pendant.
The antique pendant was passed down through generations.
The antique pendant was passed down through generations.
He gifted her a diamond-encrusted pendant to commemorate their anniversary.
He gifted her a diamond-encrusted pendant to commemorate their anniversary.