Ever wondered how your favourite pieces of jewellery work and fasten? From necklace clasps to earring fastenings, there are so many different types of jewellery clasps. We’ve created this handy guide covering each and every type of jewellery clasp, explaining how they work and what kind of jewellery they can be found on.
Necklace Clasp Types
Necklaces can be fastened in a variety of different ways but the most common types of necklace clasps are:
- Lobster Clasp
- Spring Ring Clasp
- Toggle Clasp
- Box Clasp
- Ball Clasp
- Barrel Clasp
- Fish Hook Clasp
- Magnet Clasp
Bracelet Clasp Types
Bracelets can be fastened in a variety of different ways but the most common types of bracelet clasps are:
- Bolo Clasp
- Pull String Clasp
- Lobster Clasp
- Spring Ring Clasp
- Toggle Clasp
- Box Clasp
- Ball Clasp
- Magnet Clasp
Earring Clasp Types
Earrings can be secured in a variety of different ways but the most common types of earring clasps are:
- Stud Post
- Hinged Back
- Huggie
- Hook
All Types Of Jewellery Clasps
Lobster Clasp
A lobster clasp is a spring loaded jewellery fastening that can be found on necklaces, bracelets and anklets. It resembles the shape and form of a lobster claw, which is where it gets its name from. To fasten jewellery using a lobster clasp, simply push down on the small lever to open the claw. Then hook the claw through the fastening end of your jewellery and release the lever for the clasp to automatically spring shut. This type of jewellery clasp will ensure that your jewellery stays put throughout the day and is perfect for adjusting jewellery to the desired fit.
Spring Ring Clasp
A spring ring clasp has a similar working mechanism to a lobster clasp in that it is a spring loaded jewellery fastening that can be found on necklaces, bracelets and anklets. It is circular in shape and features a lever to open and close the clasp.
Toggle Clasp
A toggle clasp, also known as a T bar clasp is a jewellery fastening that consists of an open circle on one end of a chain and a T bar on the other. Toggle clasps are super easy to fasten as all you need to do is slip the T bar through the open circle on the other end of the chain. They also make for really decorative features on jewellery and are typically found on bracelets and necklaces.
Box Clasp
A box clasp consists of two parts, including a tab and a box. To fasten a box clasp the tab is inserted into the box frame and is locked into place. Box clasps are often found on necklaces and bracelets that feature multiple strands or chunkier chains as the fastening is able to support more weight. Box clasps are also quite ornate and decorative.
Ball Clasp
A ball clasp also known as a bead clasp is a jewellery fastening that consists of a round spherical bead and a metal post or hook. It is typically used on beaded or pearl necklaces and bracelets and features a design similar to the rest of the jewellery to create a seamless and blended finish. To open and close a ball clasp, simply take the metal post or hook and slot into the opening of the ball clasp until it's firmly in place.
Barrel Clasp
A barrel clasp also known as screw clasp is a small barrel shaped jewellery fastening that can be found on necklaces and bracelets. Barrel clasps can be opened and closed by twisting the two ends together in a screw like motion. This type of fastening is incredibly secure and will make sure your jewellery stays in place all day.
Fish Hook Clasp
A fish hook clasp consists of an open circle or loop (the fish) and a hook which latches on to the loop or circle to hold it in place. The fish hook clasp can be opened and closed using a simple hook on and hook off motion. This type of jewellery clasp is typically found on beaded or pearl necklaces.
Magnetic Clasp
A magnetic clasp is a jewellery fastening that is held together by two strong magnets. It features a negative and positive magnet meaning the two ends are attracted to each other and won’t easily come apart. To open the magnet clasp, simply pull the two ends apart using a small amount of force.
Bolo Clasp
A bolo clasp also known as a sliding clasp is a jewellery fastening that features a bead or a slide function that holds the jewellery in place. This type of jewellery fastening is typically found on bracelets which can be adjusted in size. This allows the wearer to put their wrist through the bracelet rather than opening and closing the fastening around their wrist. The bolo clasp works by sliding the bead or clasp up or down the jewellery which will either loosen or tighten the fit to the wearer.
Pull String Clasp
A pull string clasp is similar to a bolo clasp in that the jewellery is secured using beads and is typically found on bracelets. However a pull string clasp is most commonly used on cord bracelets or friendship bracelets and features multiple beads, whereas a bolo bracelet only features one bead. The beads on a pull string clasp hold the bracelet together and can be tightened or loosened by pulling on the cord of the bracelet.
Stud Earrings
Stud earrings consist of a straight post which is attached to the back of the decorative part of the earring. The post is threaded through the ear piercing and is secured at the back of the ear using a butterfly fastening or similar. This type of earring fastening is incredibly easy to use and is the most common type clasp found on stud earrings.
Hinged Back Earrings
HInged back earring clasps, also known as latch back earring clasps are typically used on hoop earrings. The hinge back fastening consists of a metal post that is anchored by a hinge and snaps into place on an opening on the other side of the earring, forming a continuous loop that keeps your earrings secured and in place.
Huggie Earrings
Huggie earrings sit closely to the ear and typically feature a hinged opening or are fastened together using a continuous loop. Hinged huggies can be secured in the same way as hinge back earrings. Whereas continuous loop huggies consist of two pieces that are slotted together to form a perfect circle. Huggies with this type of fastening consist of a small opening at one end of the earring and a metal post at the other. To secure the earring, the metal post is inserted into the hole and the earring is squeezed together to form a continuous loop..
Hook Earrings
Hook earring clasps are made from wire that has been formed into the shape of a hook and are typically found on drop earrings or dangle earrings. To wear earrings with a hook fastening, simply insert the pointy end of the hook through your ear piercing and keep pushing until the curved part of the hook sits in the centre of your piercing. Sometimes a backing can be placed on the end of the hook to keep the earring secure but these are typically only ever used if the earring is heavy.
We hope that you found our guide on the different types of jewellery clasps helpful. Now that you’re a pro in how our jewellery works, why not check out some of the Necklaces, Bracelets, Earrings and Anklets we have to offer.
