Types of Jewelry Clasps

Classic Jewelry Clasp Types

Ball clasp — Also called a bead clasp, a ball clasp is a round, spherical jewelry fastener. Sometimes adorned with gemstones or texturing, ball clasps provide a decorative closure which flows with the design of a necklace or bracelet.

Barrel clasp — A barrel clasp is a small barrel or torpedo-shaped closure which fastens two ends together through a screw, box or hook-insert mechanism.

Box clasp— A box clasp involves a tab inserted into a decorative box. Usually with some kind of safety to secure the closure, a box clasp is traditionally used for tennis styles and hinged bracelets.

Fishhook clasp— A fishhook clasp is a delicate fastener that involves a hook inserted into an oval encasing. This style of closure creates a fancy look for lightweight necklaces and bracelets.

Hook clasp— A hook clasp uses an easy hook-on, hook-off motion. A curved piece at the bottom of the hook catches onto a loop or circle to hold it in place.

Lobster clasp— Named after the pinching style of the hook, a lobster clasp is often shaped like a lobster's claw. Work the lever to open the clasp and release it to close.

Push Button clasp

Springring clasp — Invented in the early 1900s, a springring claspis small and highly effective. It's a hollow circular metal fastener with a spring opening that keeps the clasp closed.

Special Fine Jewelry Clasps

• Buckle clasp — Sometimes used as a clasp for leather or material bracelets, a buckle clasp features the same mechanism as a classic belt buckle. The buckle straps one end through a loop and secures it with a hinged prong that inserts into a hole and rests against a metal frame.
• Concealed clasp — A concealed clasp is one that is hidden within the design of the piece, so as to not interrupt the flow of the appearance.

Ladder clasp — A ladder clasp is an old-fashioned fastener used for watches. With one end-piece resembling a two-spoke ladder, the foldover side can be hooked into one of two slots to adjust size.

Swivel clasp — A swivel clasp is a type of lobster clasp that can turn 360 degrees at the base.

Slide clasp— A slide clasp secures closure with two bars that slide into a locked position.

Magnetic clasp— A magnetic clasp relies on a magnet to hold the necklace or bracelet together, allowing for easy-on, easy-off closure.

Toggle clasp— A toggle clasp is a two-piece jewelry fastener that closes when a t-shaped or decorative bar is threaded through a circular loop. This stylized clasp type often serves as the centerpiece of a design.

Clasp-Free Jewelry

Some necklaces and bracelets are designed to not require a clasp. Here are some popular clasp-free jewelry styles:

• Endless — Endless necklaces have a clasp-free design which allows for a truly uninterrupted flow. These necklaces, commonly bead or pearl, are long enough to slip over the head without struggle and can often be wrapped multiple times to create a layered look.
• Slip-on — Slip-on bracelets are bangles or cuffs that have a wide opening. Simply squeeze your hand inward and slide the bracelet on. When you relax your hand, the bracelet will stay securely on.
• Stretch— Stretch bracelets are an adjustable style that relies on a coil or elastic cord. These bracelets stretch and conform to fit most wrists.

How To Clasp Video- Clasp Styles and Types

The below video showcases the opening and closing of a box clasp, a lobster clasp, a side lock clasp, a magnetic clasp, a spring-ring clasp, a magnetic clasp with a safety chain, a toggle clasp, and a fishhook clasp.