A THIRD OF WHAT GLITTERS GOES AROUND THE NECK

Gold chains worn around the neck are the top-selling item of gold jewelry, accounting for 29 percent of all units sold and 39 percent of the dollar value of sales, according to the 1989 audit of the World Gold Council. Of every hundred units sold, 22 are earings, 21 are charms or medallions, 10 are bracelets, five are wedding rings, and five are other rings, according to the audit. Sales totaled 96 million units valued at $8.5 billion in 1989.

Eighty-four percent of the items were for women. Of these items, 34 percent were gifts from men, 33 percent gifts from women, and 33 percent self-purchased.