A Kropfkette is a multi-strand choker necklace with a centerpiece, worn close around the neck with a dirndl. A typical length is 30 to 35 cm (11.8 to 13.8 in) plus about 5 cm (2 in) of extension, so it really sits close to the neck and doesn't slide down into the décolletage.
Here you'll learn where the name comes from, which length suits you, how to measure correctly, and how to pair your Kropfkette with your neckline and earrings. We are the Kube family from Bad Endorf, and under the name Trachtenschmuck Stephan we have been making traditional jewelry since 1949.
The essentials at a glance
- Worn: close around the neck, with the centerpiece at the front center.
- Length: usually 30 to 35 cm (11.8 to 13.8 in), plus about 5 cm (2 in) of extension for adjusting.
- Measuring: neck size plus 2 cm (0.8 in) is a simple rule of thumb.
- Construction: several fine strands (five on our Kropfketten), or velvet ribbons on a Kropfband.
- In a club: some clubs don't allow fashion jewelry. If in doubt, ask your Trachtenwart, the person in charge of the club's dress code.
Where does the name Kropfkette come from?
The name is thought to come from Kropf, the German word for goiter, an enlarged thyroid that used to be common due to iodine deficiency. The tight necklace is said to have adorned the neck while hiding the goiter. This is lore and not firmly documented, but it's the explanation you hear most often.
Today the Kropfkette is simply a fixed part of dirndl jewelry. It draws the eye to the face and gives the dirndl a clean, festive finish at the neck.
What's the right length?
A Kropfkette should sit close but not press. Most models are 30 to 35 cm (11.8 to 13.8 in) long, measured along the top strand. An extension of about 5 cm (2 in) at the clasp gives you room to adjust, so one necklace fits on different days and with different blouses.
| Model | Top strand | Extension | Centerpiece |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kropfkette “Astrid” | 35 cm (13.8 in) | 5 cm (2 in) | 32 mm (1.26 in) |
| Kropfkette “Elisabeth” | 35 cm (13.8 in) | 5 cm (2 in) | 30 mm (1.18 in) |
| Kropfkette “Flora” | 35 cm (13.8 in) | 5 cm (2 in) | 34 mm (1.34 in) |
| Kropfkette “Helene” | 35 cm (13.8 in) | 5 cm (2 in) | 40 mm (1.57 in) |
| Velvet Kropfband | 30, 35, or 40 cm (11.8, 13.8, or 15.7 in) | 5 cm (2 in) | Slide with colored inlay |
Our Kropfketten measure 35 cm (13.8 in) along the top strand. For the velvet Kropfbänder, you can choose 30, 35, or 40 cm (11.8, 13.8, or 15.7 in). Need a different length? Just send us a message.
How to measure your neck
Wrap a soft measuring tape around your neck where the necklace will sit, which is fairly high up rather than at the base. Don't pull it tight, just let it rest loosely. Add 2 cm (0.8 in) to your neck size, and the necklace will sit close without digging in.
Important: this is a rule of thumb, not a standard. An example: with a neck size of 32 cm (12.6 in), you end up at about 34 cm (13.4 in), which is well within range of a 35 cm (13.8 in) necklace that you can fine-tune with the extension.
Kropfkette and neckline
Because the Kropfkette sits high on the neck, it goes with almost any dirndl. With a low neckline it creates a calm counterbalance, and with a high-necked blouse or dirndl it still stays visible.
“The piece sits beautifully and also works with higher-necked dirndls.”
Sebastian Kube, Trachtenschmuck-Manufaktur
A tip on proportions: a large centerpiece like the 40 mm (1.57 in) one on the “Helene” makes a bold statement and needs little else. A delicate centerpiece of around 30 mm (1.18 in) is easier to combine with other jewelry.
Pairing your Kropfkette with earrings
It looks most harmonious when the earrings and the Kropfkette pick up the same color or motif, for example the same floral inlay or the same stone shade. A bold Kropfkette goes best with small studs, while a simple necklace leaves room for earrings that stand out a bit more.
“The five strands wrap softly around your neck and put the simple centerpiece in the spotlight.”
Sebastian Kube
The Kropfkette in a traditional dress club
Club dress often comes with its own rules. Some clubs and regional associations explicitly exclude fashion jewelry, for example the Isartaler Grünwald and the Obere Lechgau. Your club's Trachtenwart decides what belongs to your club dress. It's best to ask before you buy a Kropfkette for your club outfit.
Kropfkette FAQ
How tight should a Kropfkette sit?
Close to the neck, but without pressing. You should still be able to fit one finger underneath.
How long is a Kropfkette?
Usually 30 to 35 cm (11.8 to 13.8 in) plus about 5 cm (2 in) of extension. Our Kropfketten measure 35 cm (13.8 in) along the top strand and have a 5 cm (2 in) extension.
How do I measure the right length?
Measure your neck where the necklace will sit and add 2 cm (0.8 in). This is a rule of thumb, not a standard.
What's the difference between a Kropfkette and a Kropfband?
The Kropfkette is made of fine metal strands, the Kropfband of velvet ribbons with a slide. Both are worn close around the neck.
Can I wear a Kropfkette with my club dress?
That's up to your club. Some clubs exclude fashion jewelry, so it's best to ask your Trachtenwart.
To go with it, take a look at our traditional earrings, necklaces and collars, and more dirndl jewelry. Answers about shipping and ordering are in our FAQ.
See all Kropfketten and Kropfbänder
Read more in our guide: Traditional jewelry for your wedding and Cleaning and caring for traditional jewelry
About the author: Sebastian Kube runs the Trachtenschmuck-Manufaktur in Bad Endorf in the Chiemgau region together with his family. Under the name Trachtenschmuck Stephan, the family has been making traditional jewelry, buttons, and clasps since 1949, now in the fourth generation. More about us
Sources: Measurements from our own product data; dress regulations of the Isartaler Grünwald and the Obere Lechgau.