Magnetic Jewelry Clasp

A beautiful strand of pearls can be enhanced with a well-chosen clasp. Many colours, shapes and sizes of cultured pearls are used to create traditional and contemporary pearl necklaces. So how do you go about choosing the right clasp for wearing with a pearl necklace?

Clasps may be made with gold or silver, perhaps including diamonds or other precious stones, and may have a classic, vintage or contemporary style. There are many different basic clasp designs available for completing the final look of the necklace. These include the fish hook, the push clasp, the lobster, the spring ring, the magnetic clasp, the screw clasp, the bar clasp... and many more!

The first step in choosing a clasp is to consider how it looks together with the pearls. Fashion is a matter of personal choice, but consider the balance of size and colour between the pearls and the clasp. A discrete ball clasp might match a classic pearl necklace perfectly, whereas an oversized diamond pave clasp creates a statement that will lift the overall look of the necklace. Certain clasps are so pretty that they can be worn on the side or front of a pearl necklace.

It is important to find a secure clasp, especially if your strand of pearls is longer and heavier. A magnetic clasp is very easy to fasten, but cannot be worn with larger pearls. The fish hook is a popular clasp as it is secure, but many ladies also find it difficult to fasten. When choosing a clasp, be pragmatic and seek the right balance of style and ease of wear.

The finishing of a clasp is an aspect not to ignore. A quality clasp should be robust enough to withstand many hundred or even thousands of uses. It should have a smooth surface that allows it to sit around your neck without irritating your neck or catching in hair. Consider what materials are used in the clasp to understand its value as this may have a significant influence on the overall price of the jewellery. For example, is the clasp made with gold, silver, gold plated silver or a coated metal? What size and value of diamonds or precious stones have been used?

Finally, your budget will no doubt also influence your choice of a clasp. Remember, however, when choosing a pearl necklace that it is as important to look at the quality of the pearls as you will always be able to restring and upgrade your clasp in the future.