Even though they are underappreciated as components of chain jewelry, jewelry clasps are among the most important features of jewelry pieces. They play fundamental roles in jewelry lock types, ensuring security and sometimes serving as key components of jewelry design. A “clasp” is a mechanism that holds two parts of a jewelry piece together.
Few things can be more frustrating than struggling in the morning to put on jewelry because of a difficult clasp. Furthermore, it is annoying to suddenly find your necklace missing because the clasp wasn’t properly secured or broke.
This article covers everything you need to know about chain clasps, necklace clasps types and bracelet clasp types, from the most basic to the most exotic.
Most Common Chain Clasps
Lobster Clasp
These are probably the most common types of jewelry clasps out there, and every chain lover has most likely come across this type of clasp before. As you might guess, the lobster clasp is so named because of its resemblance to a lobster’s claw. It features a lever on one side of the clasp that opens when pulled and closes when released.
Pros of Lobster Clasp
- Highly secure and durable
- Available in various sizes and styles
- Easy to use, operate with one hand
Best For:
The lobster clasp is the most common clasp for jewelry, and it is well-suited for light to medium-weight chains, whether in silver chain clasps, gold chain clasps, and brass clasps.
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 chain lock types.
Pros of Spring Ring Clasp
- Easy to use and open with one hand
- Lightweight, suitable for delicate jewelry
- Grate durability, providing a secure and reliable connection
Best For:
It is well-suited for lightweight to medium-weight bracelets clasps types, necklaces, anklets and fine chains.
Jumbo Spring Ring Clasp
The Jumbo spring ring clasp is a larger and sturdier version of the traditional spring ring clasp, offering better security, durability and easier handling. It features a circular, spring-loaded mechanism that opens when you pull back a small lever and automatically closes when released.
Pros of Jumbo Spring Ring
- Easy to open and close
- More durable than standard spring rings
- Suitable for heavier jewelry pieces
Best For:
It is well-suited for medium-weight necklace clasps types and bracelets that require extra security.
Fold-over Clasp
A fold-over clasp is a secure and reliable type of chain lock commonly used in bracelets, chains, and heavier necklaces. It consists of a hinged metal piece that folds over a catch, locking into place to create a firm closure. To open, the wearer simply lifts the hinged section and unfolds it.
Pros of Fold-over Clasp
- Provides extra security
- Easy to operate with a simple fold-over mechanism
Best For:
The fold-over clasp is ideal for heavy chains, wide bracelets, and necklaces.
Common Chain Clasps
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 so that the bar is securely fastened on the other side of the circle.
Pros of Toggle Clasp
- Easy to open and close
- Adds a decorative element
Best For:
Toggle clasp is the best for light women’s chains and beaded necklaces in fashion jewelry.
Push Clasp
A push clasp, also known as a snap clasp, features a secure locking mechanism that requires a gentle push to fasten and release the jewelry. This clasp provides a sleek and modern look, making it a popular choice for contemporary jewelry pieces.
Pros of Push Clasp
- Secure and easy to use
- Sleek and elegant design
- Blends seamlessly with elegant bracelet and necklace designs
Best For:
Push Clasp is suitable for both lightweight and medium-weight chains, such as modern link chains and contemporary jewelry pieces.
S Clasp
An S clasp is a simple yet elegant jewelry closure shaped like the letter “S.” One end of the clasp hooks into a ring or loop on the opposite side of the jewelry piece, securing it in place. This clasp is commonly used in artisan, handmade, and bohemian jewelry due to its stylish and functional design. Some variations include an additional latch or locking mechanism for extra security.
Pros of S Clasp
- Stylish and unique design, adding an artisan touch
- Easy to fasten and unfasten
- Great for handmade and bohemian jewelry styles
Best For:
S hook clasp works well with rope chains, and cable chains, and is suitable for artisan, handmade, and bohemian jewelry.
Open Box Clasp
An open box clasp, also known as a box clasp, is a secure and elegant jewelry closure that consists of a small, hollow box with a spring-tensioned tab that slides in and locks into place. To open, the wearer presses a small lever or button to release the tab.
Pros of Open Box Clasp
- Secure locking mechanism
- Classic and elegant look, often used in fine jewelry
- Blends seamlessly with vintage and luxury jewelry designs
Best For:
This type of clasp is commonly found in fine jewelry, tennis chains, bracelets, and vintage necklaces due to its sleek design and secure hold.
Top 3 Strongest Types of Clasps
What is the strongest type of clasp? And what is the most secure jewelry clasp? If you want the most secure clasps and strongest necklace clasps, the lobster clasp or the spring clasp are your best bet. These are simple to close but difficult to open. As a result, you’ll never see these types of clasps collapse or open.
Because of their durability and security, both of these clasps are still the most popular.
Open box clasp is another clasp worthy of consideration in this category. Its design includes a safety latch, providing a robust closure and extra security.
Top 3 Clasps for Lighter Chains
For delicate chains, types of jewelry clasps such as spring ring clasp and lobster clasp are classic choices. They are lightweight, secure, and blend seamlessly with chains, necklaces and bracelets.
The fold-over clasp is a great choice for light chains, offering a secure and easy-to-use closure without adding bulk.
Top 3 Clasps for Heavier Chains
The lobster clasp remains a top choice for heavier chains, offering a strong and reliable hold that prevents accidental openings.
The jumbo spring ring is a larger and sturdier version of the traditional spring ring clasp, making it a great option for chunkier jewelry pieces.
S clasp is another jewelry lock type suited for thicker chains, as its sturdy design provides a reliable hold while complementing bold, artisan jewelry styles.
Tips for Choosing the Best Chain Clasp Types
Selecting the right clasp type for necklaces, chains and bracelets is crucial to ensure both security and aesthetics. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the best clasp for your chain:
Choose Popular Clasps
Opt for widely used types of jewelry clasps like lobster clasps and spring ring clasps, as they offer reliability and are commonly found in various jewelry designs.
Prioritize Ease of Use & Functionality
Consider how easy the clasp is to open and close. Lobster, spring ring and push clasps all offer varying levels of convenience.
Focus on Material & Durability
Ensure the clasp material matches the chain’s to maintain balance and durability. Moreover, stainless steel clasps provide strength, tarnish resistance and hypoallergenic options for sensitive skin, while brass clasps offer a balance of durability and affordability.
Match the Chain Size & Weight
The clasp should complement the chain’s thickness and weight to maintain balance and security. Lightweight chains work best with spring ring or lobster clasps, while heavier chains require sturdier options like jumbo spring ring and fold-over clasps.
Key Takeaway
After reading this article, you must have learned a thing or two about clasps suitability for different jewelry types, and the most secure types of clasp you can find. Thus, we hope that the next time you invest in a piece of jewelry or simply want to get a clasp for your chain, you are able to apply the knowledge you’ve gained to avoid buying the wrong clasp design and style for your necklace as clasps bear the responsibility for the safety of your necklace.
