I spent three weeks testing five different brands of cross pendants and chains in search of the best affordable men's gold necklace. Most inexpensive jewelry fades quickly or feels inauthentic. My goal was to find a piece that looked premium but cost less than $70.
When purchasing a gold-plated necklace, it's crucial to understand the coating process. An excessively low price often indicates a very thin gold layer. This plating can wear off in a matter of days if you sweat or shower while wearing it.
My testing process was straightforward. I compared the Mozaer 1531S—the Outlined Cross Men's Necklace—against several competitors over 21 days, focusing on three key criteria:
The specific Mozaer product is a Stainless Steel Hollow Crucifix Outline, designed as modern confirmation jewelry. Its 60cm (approximately 24-inch) length is ideal for most men.

We compared Mozaer to a high-end designer brand (Brand A) and a very cheap budget option (Brand B).
Mozaer emerged as the winner because it delivered the highest-quality appearance for the best price. Brand B was $24 cheaper, but its color began turning brassy after just four days of wear. Brand A was very high quality but cost $36 more and felt too heavy for daily use, weighing 30% more than the Mozaer cross.
The design of the Mozaer 1531S is clever. Its hollow outline structure makes the pendant look substantial and sizable without the weight or bulk of solid metal. It provides the aesthetic of a premium piece without the heft.
Mozaer uses high-grade 316L stainless steel, the same type used in surgical instruments. This steel is rust-resistant and holds gold plating far better than cheap copper or zinc bases.