One of the most underappreciated features of a piece of jewelry is its clasp. A jewelry clasp, or jewelry fastener, is the mechanism t...
One of the most
underappreciated features of a piece of jewelry is its clasp. A jewelry clasp,
or jewelry fastener, is the mechanism that allows a necklace or bracelet to
easily be put on and taken off without causing any damage. Some fasteners are
meant to be hidden, while others are a key element to the design. Here's a list
of the different types of jewelry clasps you'll find in the Zaamor Diamonds’
Jewellery Collection.
Box Clasp
The box clasp
has a simple locking system that comes apart when you squeeze and pull on the
designated lever. Box clasps come in a variety of sizes and designs. Some are
designed for multi stranded pieces.
Buckle Clasp
The buckle clasp
is simply a buckle, similar to one you would find on a watch. A buckle clasp
works particularly well for bracelets. One end of the bracelet has a horseshoe
shaped piece of metal with a bar in the middle, while the other end has holes
or notches. Simply insert the notched end of the bracelet into the metal end
and place the metal bar into one of the holes to secure. Buckle clasps can
sometimes be difficult to close but are ideal for bracelets.
Lobster Clasp
Lobster clasp,
named for its resemblance to a lobster's claw, is a spring loaded, self-closing
clasp style. To open a lobster clasp, simply push down on the lever with your
thumb and the bottom section of the "claw" will swing inward.
Releasing the lever will close the clasp.
Magnetic Clasp
A magnet clasp
is a simple clasp that uses magnets at both ends of the necklace or bracelet.
When the ends are brought together, the magnets quickly snap shut. Magnetic
clasps are secure, easy to close and work well for both necklaces and bracelets.
S Hook Clasp
The s hook clasp
consists of a dramatic s-shaped piece of metal on one end of a necklace or
bracelet. On the other end is an opening like a hole or square. The s-shaped
piece simply hooks into the other end of the necklace or bracelet. This type of
clasp can be used for both necklaces and bracelets and can be a highly decorated
piece. While it is relatively easy to use, it is not as secure as other clasps.
Spring Clasp
The spring ring
clasp is one of the most common types of clasps you'll see on all kinds of
jewelry pieces. As its name suggests, it is a metal ring with a spring
mechanism. Just pull back on the small lever and the spring will compress,
leaving an opening so you can slide a jump ring or tab inside. Releasing the
lever causes the clasp to close automatically, firmly locking the chain in
place.
Toggle Clasp
The toggle clasp
works well with both necklaces and bracelets and can he highly decorated to
match the style of the jewelry. On one end of the bracelet or necklace is a
metal piece with a thick "bar", while the other end has an opening
such as a hole or square. Simply insert the bar into the other end to secure.
These types of clasps are not as secure as other clasps but are easy to use.
Barrel Clasp
Barrel clasps
are made of two metal pieces that screw together to close and look likes a
barrel. Each part is attached to one end of the piece of jewelry. These clasps
are very versatile and come in many different sizes and finishes. Sometimes
they're even decorative, but more often they're simply gold or silver and
designed to blend in with the finished piece.
See? There are
lots of options to consider, and the choice you make can really add to your
finished piece! To summarize, here are the best options for certain types of
projects:
Everyday
Necklaces: Spring Ring, Lobster, Barrel, Magnetic, Fishhook
Heavy Necklaces:
Spring Ring, Lobster, Toggle
Formal
Necklaces: Fishhook
Multi-strand
Necklaces: Slide Lock
Everyday
Bracelets: Lobster (Swivel), Toggle, Magnetic
Multi-strand
Bracelets: Slide Lock
Ankle Bracelets:
Spring Ring, Lobster (Swivel), Toggle, Magnetic
Projects for
Older Women/Limited Dexterity: Magnetic, Slide Lock
