You may be wondering which clasp mechnism to choose when it comes to jewellery. Here are the most common types and how they operate.
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Lobster
- Spring Ring
- S Hook
- Fish Hook
- Bayonet
- Box
- Barrel
- Toggle
- Magnetic
Lobster Clasp:
These are probably the most common chain clasps out there, and every chain lover has likely come across this type. It resembles a lobsters claw and features a lever on one side of the clasp that opens when pulled and closes when released.
A very secure jewelry clasp, lobster clasps are available in a wide range of sizes and styles.
The only downside to lobster clasps is that they require steady hands and may not be suitable for those with extra long nails.
Spring Ring Clasp:
These clasps bear a remarkable similarity to lobster clasps. They are hollow, ring-shaped clasps with a spring-loaded lever that is operated similarly to lobster clasps. The ring clasp is reliable and often less expensive than other types of clasps.
S-Hook Clasp:
Image Source: The Black Bow
It is pretty easy to guess the shape of these clasps from their name. An effortless hook-on, hook-off motion is used with S-hook clasps. These clasps are not only very secure; they are also very effective for heavy chain jewelry.
Fish Hook Clasp:
A fishhook clasp is a delicate fastener consisting of an oval encasing with a hook. This type of fastening adds a sophisticated touch to lightweight necklaces and bracelets. It is often seen with pearl necklaces. The intricate design of this hook makes it a secure option for necklace fastening. This is one of the more complex designs and may have a higher price due to it.
Bayonet Clasp:
Bayonet clasps are a different type of clasp to the previous ones mentioned. In order to open it, you have to press a button or turn it.
Robert Ackermann has a great video showing you how the bayonet clasp works. You can view their video by clicking the link here.
Box Clasp:
Box clasps are used more frequently in chain bracelets than in necklaces. To attach a box clasp, a tab on one end of the jewelry is placed into the box-shaped casing on the other end. Box clasps are extremely secure and simple to use.
WJD Exclusives have a great demonstration on how to use box clasps and this can be viewed by clicking here.
Barrel Clasp:
Barrel clasps are more tricky to secure but they allow an uninterrupted flow in the design of the jewellery. The clasp’s second half twists into threads on one half that resembles screw threads. If you are not particularly dexterous, you may require the assistance of another person to put on a barrel clasp bracelet or necklace.
Because barrel clasps require a lot of metal to make, they are more expensive and are often found in high-end jewellery.
Toggle Clasp:
A toggle clasp has a basic circle on one end and a T-shaped or decorative bar on the other. This type of stylized clasp frequently acts as the focal point of a design. When the bar is passed through the circle, the weight of the necklace will keep it in place. The goal is to slide the bar or T shape inside the circle and turn it such that the bar is securely fastened on the other side of the circle.
Magnetic Clasp:
Image Source: The Black Bow
A magnetic clasp uses a magnet to hold the necklace or bracelet together, making it easy to put on and take off. These are great for people who do not like having to fiddle with the clasps to put on jewellery. However, magnetic clasps aren’t the most secure clasps, as they may come off when pulled mistakenly or when a really heavy pendant is placed on them.
Top strongest clasps:
If you want the most secure fastening, the lobster clasp or the spring clasp are the favoured options. These are simple to close but difficult to open without using the mechanisms on the clasp.
The barrel clasp is another clasp which is considered one of the strongest. This clasp requires a large amount of metal in its manufacture. This provides it with significant strength while also being incredibly secure due to its screw method of operation.