Jewelry Clasps From A To Z

By Author: Jaimes Watts
Total Articles: 38
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There are many, many different types of jewelry clasps available to crafters of jewelry. Which one you choose to complete your project will depend upon a number of factors such as size, design, and objective. What follows is by no way a comprehensive list.

Add-a-Bead Clasps – Designed for use with chains, they can be used with cord as well. The narrow profile allows the designer to add large bore beads and bails with ease.

Adjustable Clasps – A hook-and-eye style clasp that has a length of chain on the other end so that the article can be custom fit over a variety of sizes.

Bar and Toggle – Two pieced clasps with a straight bar on one end and a loop of some sort on the other. The bar slides through the toggle at an angle and is straightened out to prevent opening. The bar portion can be designed in a number of shapes and the most common use is in anklets.

Barrel or Torpedo – A small, low profile clasp that threads for additional security.

Bead Clasp – Designed to look just like a bead, this ...
... clasp is a modification on a tab or magnet clasp. The goal is to allow continuity in flow when one looks at the completed piece.

Button Toggles – This interesting clasp is made up of two buttons, one with a loop of leather connected. The loop is placed around the other button.

Filigree Clasp – Decorative and open, appearing not unlike lace made from metal, the underlying mechanics are identical to those found in bar and fish hook clasps.

Fish Hook Clasps – This style of clasp has a hook on one end and an oval receptacle on the other end. The hook is slid over a post within the opposing box and then locked within the box. The advantage here is that even if the lock releases, the hook will hold the piece together.

Lobster Claw – Also called a parrot clasp, this clasp is similar to the spring tab in that it closes automatically. There are many styles of this clasp and they come in many sizes.

Magnetic Clasps – Ideal for those who lack fine motor coordination, magnetic clasps pull together strongly due to the magnets imbedded in their structure.

Snap Lock Clasps – This hinged clasp has a tab which folds over a fulcrum point in the other half of the pair. The tab is then locked securely, completing the closure. Low profile and secure, this is an ideal clasp for many projects.

Springring Clasps – You will need a jumpring or chain tab to complete this clasp, but it is one of the most common ones available. Once you release the trigger it closes automatically, but the small size and finicky nature of the ring can make it difficult for many people to use.

Tab Lock Clasps – the two pieces of these clasps are designed to fit together seamlessly. They are easy to manipulate and rely upon the weight of the jewelry to keep them closed.

All of these clasps should be easy to find online. Take a look around and find the perfect clasp to complete your work of art.

Jewelry can be customized in so many ways. Whether you are searching for kits, jewelry clasps and supplies, or assistance in jewelry making, you can find everything you need at http://www.designjewelry.com/.