Creating the perfect bracelet for your wrist is indeed a challenging task. Bracelet clasps are one of the most crucial parts of any jewelry-making project, and the right clasp can be highly functioning as well as add to the overall aesthetic of your bracelet.
In order to find the balance, you need to have proper knowledge about all the different types of bracelet clasps so that you are able to choose the right clasp for your bracelet. In this article, let’s learn more about the many types of clasps that you can use for your hand-made bracelet.
1. Lobster Clasps
The lobster clasp is the most popular type of clasp that is used in bracelets and necklaces.
It looks a bit like a claw, and to open it, you only need to push down on the little lever. When you let go, the clasp closes automatically, which is why it’s so simple to use this type of clasp – it’s a one-step process.
Lobster clasps are available in various sizes and styles, so you can find them available in so many different sizes, materials, and colors to suit your bracelet design. You should find the size that can blend in seamlessly with the size of the band, and the color should also match.
2. Bolo Clasp
A bolo clasp is not a clasp, per se. Technically, your bracelet will always be a closed-loop, and you slide the clasp to adjust the length of your bracelet. Bolo clasps are commonly used in lariat necklaces and bracelets.
This is a special element that can add to the overall design of the bracelet, and it’s actually a very trendy look. They allow your bracelet to be easy to put on and adjust the clasp to help the bracelet fit perfectly.
If you want to use a bolo clasp in your design, make sure to use a sturdy bracelet chain because the sliding motion can sometimes damage the chain and break the bracelet.
3. Barrel Clasp
A barrel clasp is a two-piece type of clasp. It works by using a thread-like mechanism, and you have to twist the clasp to close and open it. As you can imagine, this is quite difficult to do with one hand, hence why it’s not commonly used for bracelets and more for ankle bracelets.
However, once the clasp is closed, it resembles a barrel bead that can actually act as a design element for your jewelry, making the piece look seamless, as if it has no clasp at all.
4. Box Clasp
A box clasp is a simple design that works by fitting a tab on one end of the bracelet into a box-shaped frame on the other, and a hinged clasp closes the opening to create a link.
You can find box clasps with various embellishments, adding a little design element to a piece of jewelry. They are very durable but not durable enough for heavier pieces.
Box clasps used to be popular, but if you’re not careful in choosing the right clasp, they are prone to getting stuck, damaging the bracelet.
5. Bead/Ball Clasp
A bead clasp is another type of clasp that can blend in perfectly with a piece of jewelry, acting as another embellishment in the piece.
These round beads often have a tab or bayonet closure, and when they’re closed, they can blend in with the other design elements in the bracelet. They can also be magnetic.
6. Fishhook Clasp
Fishhook clasps are less popular than other types of clasps, but they are actually quite elegant, acting as a decorative element in the design. It’s often seen in vintage pieces and can add an interesting look to your bracelet design.
There’s a “fishhook” on one side, and it can slide inside a slot inside the oval box to close the clasp. This type of clasp is ideal for lightweight bracelets and necklaces but more popular for necklaces and anklets because it can be difficult to close with one hand.
7. Hook Clasp
One of the oldest and most popular types of jewelry accessories, the hook clasp is a simple design.
It has an S-shaped piece of metal that connects two rings on each side of the necklace, so it’s quite easy to use even with one hand.
This clasp even allows you to adjust the length of the chain – you can connect the S hook on any chain that you see fit.
Although most people only know about the modern “S” hook, there are many styles of the hook clasp to choose from, including the traditional’ hook and eye’ look and the modern style that you see today.
When you buy hook clasps, make sure to choose a sturdy metal so that the S stays in place and holds your jewelry together. A flimsy clasp may cause your bracelet to become undone quite easily.
8. Magnetic Clasp
A magnetic clasp is designed to snap in place, thanks to the two magnets at each end of your bracelet. It can provide quite a secure link for your jewelry, but it’s so easy to use since you can just put it on with one hand.
This elegant and versatile clasp is ideal for all types of jewelry. It can be added as part of the overall design, and it comes in so many different sizes and designs to fit with different styles of jewelry.
9. Toggle Clasp
The toggle clasp can be easily recognized from the “T” bar at one end and the decorative loop on the other end of your bracelet. To close the clasp, you turn the bar so that it fits through the loop, and the “T” will snap in place, securing the bracelet.
Toggle clasps are versatile and can be worn on a variety of jewelry pieces, but especially boho pieces with an effortless vibe. These toggle clasps can also become a statement in a simple bracelet piece, and many high-end jewelry brands love using this clasp because of its simple yet elegant look.
Despite looking small and simple, the connection provided by this clasp is very secure. This makes them great for holding larger pieces of jewelry togethe, as this type of clasp keeps the bar in place.
Some people love this type of clasp since it has a simple mechanism and is very easy to use. However, it can be difficult to use with just one hand, in the case of a bracelet.
10. Spring Ring Clasp
The spring ring clasp is a type of self-closing clasp that works similarly to a lobster clasp. When you press down the lever, you reveal a small opening in the ring that allows you to slide the other end inside. When you remove your hand, the spring automatically closes the gap to secure the clasp.
These clasps are popular in necklaces and bracelets because they are self-closing, but they can still be difficult to put on, especially because the rings are so small.
Small spring ring clasps are great for keeping small chains secure, and they have a very subtle look. If you often have difficulties working with this type of clasp, you can opt for ones that are a little bit bigger, which will make them easier to use.
11. Swivel Clasp
The swivel clasp is a type of lobster clasp that has a motion feature that allows it to rotate 360 degrees. It’s a great improvement from the traditional lobster clasp because it allows the piece to have more movement.
However, it can bulk up the look of a piece, so it works best with heavier chains and pieces with lots of detail.
12. Buckle Clasp
A buckle clasp is a type of clasp that’s made to be eye-catching. It resembles the look of a belt buckle, so it can be quite a statement in a piece of jewelry. This design usually works best with bulkier chains.
The mechanism of the buckle clasp is also similar to a belt buckle, except that it’s less flexible because it’s made of metal. It can be difficult to put on, but the link it creates is very secure.
13. Push Button Clasp
A push-button clasp is similar to the magnetic clasp because it can simply “click” in place, creating a very secure connection using just one hand. There’s a button that you can press to open the link, but once closed; it’s a very sturdy connection.
This is a great option for bracelets because it doesn’t require much effort to put on or take off – you can use it with just one hand.
14. Slide Clasp
A slide clasp is another elegant clasp design that can work with very fine pieces of jewelry. Each end of the clasp is a metal bar, and the two slide together to create a secure position. When closed, it looks like an element in your design, adding some interest to the piece.
While this type of clasp can be hard to work with – you will need to fit the two pieces together – it is a lovely design that is unique and very secure. It comes in so many sizes and colors, so you can choose one that works best with your piece.
Up Next: Calottes – What Are They And How To Use Them
