Wrapped loop

A wrapped loop is a wire loop that gets closed off by winding the leftover tail of wire two or three times around the wire's own neck just below the loop, rather than leaving it as an open hook shape. The coil locks the loop closed so it cannot pull open under normal wear.

It matters most on pieces that take regular tension or hold something valuable, like a gemstone briolette hanging from a bail, or an earring that gets pulled on while being put on or taken off. The extra wraps also hide the cut end of the wire against the neck instead of leaving a sharp tip exposed.

Making one takes round nose pliers to form the loop and chain nose or flat nose pliers to press the wraps down neatly, then flush cutters to trim the tail close to the coil. A common mistake is leaving a visible gap between the loop and the first wrap, or leaving the cut tail sticking out where it can scratch skin or snag on clothing.