Beginner's Guide to Jewelry Findings: Everything You Need to Get Started

What Are Jewelry Findings?

If you're new to jewelry making, you've probably heard the term "findings" thrown around — but what exactly are they? Jewelry findings are the small functional components that hold your jewelry together. They're the unsung heroes of every bracelet, necklace, and pair of earrings. Without them, your beautiful beads and pendants would have nowhere to go.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the most common types of findings, how to choose the right ones for your project, and what materials to look for.

The Most Common Jewelry Findings Explained

Clasps

Clasps are the closures that keep your necklaces and bracelets secure. The most popular types include:

• Lobster claw clasp — the most common, easy to open with one hand, great for everyday wear
• Toggle clasp — a decorative T-bar that slips through a ring; best for heavier pieces
• Spring ring clasp — a small circular clasp with a spring mechanism; lightweight and subtle

Jump Rings & Split Rings

Jump rings are small circular or oval rings used to connect components — attaching a charm to a bracelet, for example. Split rings (like tiny key rings) are more secure and less likely to open accidentally.

Ear Wires & Earring Backs

Ear wires (also called fish hooks or shepherd hooks) are the curved wires that pass through pierced ears. Earring backs (or stoppers) keep stud earrings in place. Both come in a range of metals and styles.

Crimp Beads & Crimp Tubes

Used with beading wire, crimp beads are tiny metal beads that you flatten with pliers to secure the wire in place — essential for finishing necklaces and bracelets strung on wire.

Head Pins & Eye Pins

Head pins are straight wires with a flat or decorative end — you thread a bead onto one and bend the top into a loop to create a dangle. Eye pins already have a loop at one end, making them perfect for linking components together.

How to Choose the Right Finding for Your Project

When selecting findings, consider three things:

• Material: Match your findings to your other components. Sterling silver findings pair beautifully with gemstone beads; gold-filled findings elevate delicate chains.
• Size: A clasp that's too small for a chunky chain will look out of place — and may not hold. Check the inner diameter of jump rings against the chain links you're using.
• Finish: Antique brass, shiny silver, matte gold — your findings should complement the overall aesthetic of your piece.

Sterling Silver vs. Gold-Filled vs. Base Metal: A Quick Comparison

• Sterling silver (925): Durable, tarnish-resistant with care, hypoallergenic for most people. A great choice for everyday jewelry.
• Gold-filled: A thick layer of gold bonded to a base metal. More affordable than solid gold, long-lasting, and safe for sensitive skin.
• Base metal (brass, copper, zinc alloy): Budget-friendly and available in many finishes. May tarnish faster and can cause reactions in people with metal sensitivities.

Ready to Start?

Now that you know your findings, it's time to stock up. Browse our Jewelry Findings collection to find clasps, jump rings, ear wires, crimp beads, head pins, and more — everything you need to bring your first project to life.