This is a cable chain, I consider this a medium weight chain, good for most applications chain is 304 stainless steel and become a popular substitute for plated silver chains for good reason. It has no plating on it to wear off. It is stronger then base metal chains and the clasps are not prone to failure. Stainless is used in lots of medical equipment, the food industry and even marine applications where it is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish. This corrosion-resistant alloy is ideal for long-lasting jewelry designs and will not fade or chip over time. Grit or grime on it can easily be removed with soap and water. Great for those living in high-humidity locations because the metal will keep from rusting much longer than other metals. Considered hypoallergenic......."Hypoallergenic" means "below normal" or "slightly" allergenic. Jewelry that has been classified as hypoallergenic means it contains little to no potentially irritating alloys.
The color of Stainless is a bit grayer then sterling. It looks close to platinum in color. My personal opinion is there is no problem pairing a sterling colored pendant with a stainless chain. Close enough in color, it will appear to match. While stainless is going to cost more then very cheap base metal chains, it will be far below the cost of a real sterling. If you are selling jewelry, you can consider stainless chain as an up-sell to your customer.