Find HS Code and trade information for waist chain

Waist Chain

A waist chain, also known as a hip chain or belly chain, is an ornamental chain worn around the waist or hips. Historically and culturally significant, it has evolved from a traditional garment to a popular fashion accessory.

Material

Waist chains are crafted from a diverse range of materials, influencing their appearance, weight, and price point. Common materials include:

• Metals: Sterling silver, gold (various karats), stainless steel, brass, and alloy metals are frequently used. Silver and gold chains are often considered higher-end options, while stainless steel and alloy provide affordability and durability.
• Beads: Glass, plastic, acrylic, and semi-precious stones are incorporated for color, texture, and aesthetic variety.
• Chains: Various chain styles are employed, including curb chains, rope chains, figaro chains, snake chains, and ball chains.
• Other: Leather, pearls, crystals, and fabric elements can also be integrated into waist chain designs.

Purpose & Historical Significance

• Traditional: In many cultures, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East, waist chains have held symbolic meaning. They were often associated with marital status, fertility, and prosperity. In India, for example, they were traditionally worn by brides as a symbol of their wedded status and to signify their new life.
• Fashion: The chain gained popularity in Western fashion during the 1960s and 1970s, influenced by bohemian styles and exposure to global cultures. It experienced revivals in the 1990s and 2000s, often associated with low-rise jeans and belly dancing.
• Body Adornment: Waist chains serve as a form of body jewelry, accentuating the waistline and adding a decorative element to an outfit.

Function

• Aesthetic Enhancement: The primary function is to visually enhance the body shape and add a stylistic flair to clothing.
• Accentuation: Chains draw attention to the waist, creating a more defined silhouette.
• Layering: Chains can be layered with clothing, worn over dresses, skirts, or with high-waisted bottoms.
• Symbolic Expression: Depending on the design and cultural context, a chain can convey personal beliefs or affiliations.

Usage Scenarios

• Casual Wear: Worn with jeans, shorts, t-shirts, and tank tops for a relaxed look.
• Formal Events: Paired with dresses or skirts for a more sophisticated style.
• Beachwear: Used as an accessory with swimwear.
• Dance: Integral to belly dancing costumes, often featuring multiple chains and embellishments.
• Festivals & Parties: Incorporated into bohemian or eclectic outfits.

Common Types

• Simple Chain: A basic chain without additional embellishments.
• Beaded Chain: Features beads of various sizes, colors, and materials.
• Layered Chain: Consists of multiple chains of varying lengths and styles.
• Chain Belt: A more substantial chain with a clasp or buckle, functioning more like a traditional belt.
• Belly Dance Chain: Elaborate chains with pendants, charms, and intricate designs, specifically designed for belly dancing.
• Waist Chain with Charms: Features decorative charms or pendants attached to the chain.
• Adjustable Chain: Designed with an adjustable length for a customized fit.

Based on the provided information, waist chains fall under the category of jewelry articles. Here's a breakdown of relevant HS codes:

• 7113205000: This HS code covers “Articles of jewelry and parts thereof, of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal: Of base metal clad with precious metal: Other: Other”. This would apply if the waist chain is made of a base metal with a precious metal coating. The total tax rate is 42.7%, comprised of a 5.2% base tariff and a 7.5% additional tariff, increasing to 30.0% after April 2, 2025.
• 7113195045: This HS code covers “Articles of jewelry and parts thereof, of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal: Of precious metal whether or not plated or clad with precious metal: Of other precious metal, whether or not plated or clad with precious metal: Other: Other”. This applies if the waist chain is made of a precious metal (other than gold or silver) and may or may not be plated or clad. The total tax rate is 43.0%, consisting of a 5.5% base tariff, a 7.5% additional tariff, and a 30.0% additional tariff after April 2, 2025.

It is important to determine the material composition of the waist chain to select the correct HS code. If the waist chain is made of gold, consider HS code 7115903000.