Findings
The term “findings” is a general term applying to the metal components, such as clasps and head pins, which are used in jewelry design. Findings are available in a wide range of metal types and finishes.
A. Crimp Beads & Crimp Tubes
Crimp beads and tubes are used to finish designs strung on tiger tail. When flattened, they attach a clasp to the wire, finishing off your design with an extremely secure hold.
B. Cord Ends
Use cord ends to finish off designs using leather, suede, cotton or other fibers. Simply place the material into the end and flatten with chain nose pliers. The cord end has a loop on the end to which a clasp can be attached.
C. Clamshell Bead Tips
Clamshells are the ideal finding for finishing designs strung on lightweight silk, cotton or linen cord. The final knot of the design is “cupped” between the two sides of the shell. To conceal the knot, simply close the clamshell with chain nose pliers.
D. Clasps
Clasps are the finishing element of any strung design and allow you to open and close a piece of jewelry. Lobster and spring ring clasps are simple and effective solutions while decorative toggles can serve as the focal point of your design.
E. Multi-strand Clasps
Multi-strand designs are increasingly popular. Standard clasps can accommodate a few strands of small beads, however multi-strand clasps ensure your strands stay evenly spaced and lay flat as intended. The number of loops at the end of the clasp determines how many strands it can accommodate.
F. Jump Rings
Jump rings are small wire rings that are used to link different materials together or to attach charms to a chain. A small opening in the ring allows it to be easily opened and closed with pliers. Offered in a variety of shapes and gauges, circle and oval jump rings are the most widely used.
G. Split Rings
Split rings are shaped like a tight key ring and provide a secure attachment because they do not open easily.
H. Connectors
The term “connector” applies to any shape or link that is used to connect different segments of a design together.
I. Earring Findings
Like clasps, there are a variety of choices when it comes to earring findings. Most commonly used types include: kidney, French ear wires, lever back, hoops and chandeliers.
J. Head Pins
A head pin is a piece of wire with a nub, ball or decorative design on one end which prevents beads from sliding off. They are used to create beaded drops or dangles. 1.5” and 2” head pins are the most versatile lengths.
K. Eye Pins
Similar to head pins, eye pins differ only in that they have a loop at the end instead of a nub. The loop makes it easier to create beaded links, as it eliminates the need to create one of the loops.