Clasps types and styles
Clasps are devices that close a necklace or a bracelet. Clasps are categorized as findings. There are different models and they are differentiated by their fixation mechanism. Here is a descriptive table to help you find your way through it all:
Springing clasps
This clasp has a spring operated by a small latch positioned on its side. Some are round others are shaped as carabiners, they are also called lobster claw or crab claw clasps. It’s commonly used for bracelets and necklaces.
Pawl clasp
This clasp is made with a small box that can be of various shapes and that is often decorated. This box is slot on one side. The other side has a pawl, which has a flap that forms a sharp angle that enables a spring effect. When the pawl is inserted in the box’s slot, it engages and doesn’t come out. A peg that can be lowered is put on the pawl and enables it to open the clasp.
Fish hook clasp
The fish hook clasp is part of the family of pawl clasp. It’s made with a box equipped with small rods on the sides and has a hook notched in a “U” shape. The hook is inserted in the box by sliding it between the rods. The end of the hook then exits from where it was entered. Once inserted, the rods block the hook due to the notches and they prevent it from coming out. To open the clasp, simply pinch both extremities of the hook, one end towards the other and remove it from the box.
Magnetic clasp
Magnetic clasps are made with two magnets glued to the inside of a piece often made of metal. Simply separate them to open the clasp or put them back together to close it. Some are equipped with eyelets in order to add a single or multirow jewelry piece. Others only have one hole, in which a knot or a crimp bead has to be slid in to block the clasp and fix it to the piece. It’s a very easy clasp to use, however it’s not the most secure one as it can open quite easily depending on the strength of the magnets.
Slide lock magnetic clasp
This clasp is composed of two tubes equipped with magnets on their opposing ends that can be slid in each other. On each of the tubes’ sides, two to nine rings can be found, they allow the fixing of rows on a jewelry piece. This clasp is ideal for multirow necklaces or bracelets. It’s a connector and a clasp all at once, thus taking less space and being more discreet.
Screwable clasp
This clasp has two parts that are screwed together. You need both of your hands to open or close it which is why it’s usually used for necklaces rather than bracelets.
Toggle clasp
Also called “T” clasp or stick clasp, the toggle clasp is made with a ring and a “T” shaped rod. The rod is slightly longer than the diameter of the ring. To open or close the clasp, simply tip the rod in or out of the ring. This clasp is often integrated to jewelry designs and becomes a practical and ornamental element of the piece.
Hook and eye clasp
This clasp has two parts. Depending on the model, one part is shaped as a hook and the other part is usually a simple ring. Simply insert the hook into the ring to close the clasp.