Independent buying guides for jewelry making

Findings & Clasps

Findings turn beads into wearable jewelry. Clasps, jump rings, crimp beads, earring hooks and connectors are where many pieces succeed or fail.

Close-up of a turquoise gemstone bracelet with silver detail, perfect for fashion and jewelry enthusiasts
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Best Head Pins and Eye Pins for Earrings and Bead Dangles

Best Head Pins and Eye Pins for Earrings and Bead Dangles

The best head pins and eye pins for earrings and dangles, compared on gauge, length, metal and head style, from bulk plated packs to solid sterling silver.

Best Lobster Clasps for Jewelry: Reliable Closures Ranked

Best Lobster Clasps for Jewelry: Reliable Closures Ranked

Find the best lobster clasps for necklaces and bracelets. We rate spring action, gate strength, sizes, and plating so your closures work smoothly for years.

Best Magnetic Jewelry Clasps for Easy One-Hand Fastening

Best Magnetic Jewelry Clasps for Easy One-Hand Fastening

The best magnetic jewelry clasps compared on pull strength, size, and finish. Ideal for arthritis-friendly designs and quick one-handed fastening.

Best Jewelry Clasps for Handmade Necklaces and Bracelets

Best Jewelry Clasps for Handmade Necklaces and Bracelets

Compare the best jewelry clasps for handmade pieces, from lobster and toggle to magnetic styles, with picks rated on security, finish, and ease of use.

Best Jump Rings for Jewelry Making: Strength and Finish Compared

Best Jump Rings for Jewelry Making: Strength and Finish Compared

Find the best jump rings for jewelry making. We compare gauge, diameter, open vs closed styles, and plating quality so your connections never pull apart.

Best Crimp Beads and Crimp Tubes for Secure Beading

Best Crimp Beads and Crimp Tubes for Secure Beading

The best crimp beads and tubes for beading wire, compared on hold strength, crush quality, and finish so your strands stay secured for years.

Best Earring Hooks for Handmade Earrings: Comfort and Quality Picks

Best Earring Hooks for Handmade Earrings: Comfort and Quality Picks

Compare the best earring hooks for handmade designs, from French wires to kidney styles, rated on comfort, hypoallergenic metals, and finish durability.

Best Earring Posts and Studs for DIY Earring Making

Best Earring Posts and Studs for DIY Earring Making

The best earring posts for DIY studs, compared on pad size, metal safety, and backing fit so your glued and wrapped designs stay put and irritation-free.

Best Bead Caps for Elegant Handmade Jewelry Designs

Best Bead Caps for Elegant Handmade Jewelry Designs

Compare the best bead caps for framing gemstones and glass beads, with picks across sizes and finishes that fit snugly and elevate simple designs.

Best Jewelry Connectors and Links for Multi-Strand Designs

Best Jewelry Connectors and Links for Multi-Strand Designs

The best jewelry connectors and charm links compared on casting quality, loop strength, and finish, from simple bars to decorative multi-strand ends.

Best Extender Chains for Adjustable Necklaces and Bracelets

Best Extender Chains for Adjustable Necklaces and Bracelets

Find the best extender chains for necklaces and bracelets, compared on link strength, drop-end style, and finish so every piece fits every customer.

Best Jewelry Findings to Keep Stocked

Best Jewelry Findings to Keep Stocked

The findings that handmade jewelry fails on, with the clasp sizes, ring gauges and metals that stop pieces falling open, pulling apart or irritating ears.

How to choose

  • Choose sturdy clasps that match the jewelry's weight.
  • Open jump rings sideways to keep their shape.
  • Crimp securely with crimping pliers.
  • Use hypoallergenic metals for earring hooks and posts.

Common questions

What is the most secure jewelry clasp?

Lobster clasps are secure and easy to use for most bracelets and necklaces. Magnetic clasps are convenient but can release under strain.

Why use crimp beads?

They grip beading wire so you can attach clasps securely without knots.