Length is the open necklace laid straight & measured end to end not including the stone. The stone will hang at the length you choose. The best way to confirm what size is best for you is to drape a string around your neck, mark it where you want the length to be, then measure the string. In general 14" would be for a choker length, 16" typically hits at the collar bone, 18" hits above the heart and 20" or more would be good for a long layered look with other necklaces.