Jewelry findings are the unsung heroes of the jewelry-making world. These small but essential components hold pieces together, add functionality, and can even enhance the aesthetic appeal of a piece. Let’s dive into the different types of jewelry findings and their uses.
Clasps
Clasps are used to fasten bracelets and necklaces, ensuring they stay securely on the wearer. There are several types of clasps, each suitable for different styles and weights of jewelry:
- Lobster Clasps: Named for their resemblance to a lobster claw, these clasps are very secure and commonly used in necklaces and bracelets.
- Toggle Clasps: Consisting of a bar and a ring, these are easy to use and add a decorative element to the jewelry.
- Magnetic Clasps: These use magnets to close, making them very easy to operate, especially for people with dexterity issues
Jump Rings
Jump rings are small metal rings with a cut that allows them to open and close. They are used to connect different components, such as attaching a clasp to a chain or linking charms to bracelets. They come in various sizes and thicknesses, suitable for different purposes. Split rings are a variation, resembling tiny keyrings, which provide extra security as there’s no gap for the thread to slip through
Headpins and Eyepins
Headpins are lengths of wire with a flat or decorative head at one end. They are perfect for creating dangles or drops for earrings and pendants. By threading beads onto the wire and forming a loop at the other end, you can easily attach these to other components. Eyepins are similar but have a loop at one end instead of a flat head, making them ideal for creating links in a chain
Crimp Beads and Covers
Crimp beads are used to secure the ends of beading wire. After threading the wire through a clasp or jump ring, the crimp bead is flattened with pliers to hold everything in place. Crimp covers are small, C-shaped findings that are closed around the flattened crimp bead to give it a finished, bead-like appearance Bails
Bails are used to attach pendants to a chain or cord. They come in various styles, including glue-on bails, which are adhered to the back of a pendant, and pinch bails, which are squeezed onto a pendant with a pre-drilled hole. Bails not only provide a secure attachment but can also enhance the overall design of the jewelry piece
Earring Findings
Earrings require specific findings to stay secure and comfortable. Earring backs come in different styles, such as butterfly backs, screw backs, and push backs, each providing different levels of security. Ear wires or ear hooks are used to create drop earrings, while hoops and stud bases are used for other earring styles
Bead Caps
Bead caps are decorative elements that are placed on either end of a bead to add detail and interest. They can also help secure beads with larger holes and are available in many designs to complement various jewelry styles
Links and Connectors
Links and connectors are versatile components used to join various elements of jewelry, such as connecting beads, creating multi-strand designs, or adding decorative elements. They come in many shapes and sizes, offering endless design possibilitiesCord Ends and Ribbon Ends
For jewelry made with cords or ribbons, cord ends and ribbon ends are essential. These findings allow you to add metal finishes to the ends of your materials, providing a neat and secure way to attach clasps or other connectors. They often come with teeth that grip the material, and using jewelry glue can add extra security
Wire Protectors and Knot Covers
Wire protectors or thread protectors are used to prevent wear on stringing materials at critical points, such as near clasps. Knot covers or bead tips are used to conceal knots at the ends of beaded pieces, giving them a professional finish
Understanding and using the right findings can elevate your jewelry creations, ensuring they are not only beautiful but also durable and functional. Happy crafting!