Foolproof Jump Ring Closures
Question:
I use sterling silver jump rings on bracelets to attach clasps. They have pulled apart, and I am wondering if I should use another material to attach the clasps so they are not as fragile.
-Fran in Charlotte, North Carolina
I use sterling silver jump rings on bracelets to attach clasps. They have pulled apart, and I am wondering if I should use another material to attach the clasps so they are not as fragile.
-Fran in Charlotte, North Carolina
Instructions
Answer:
I don't think it's the metal, Fran, but it may be the ratio of the gauge to the weight of the bracelet. I asked our WS Faculty chainmaille expert, Lena Bugrimenko, for her opinion too. She suggested increasing the jump ring gauge; for example, if you are currently using 20-gauge, try using 18-gauge. Lena also gave me a great tip by mentioning that she sometimes uses a smaller gauge jump ring, like 20- or 21-gauge, but uses two of them at a closure point!
I actually followed her advice just yesterday. I made a rather expensive gold-filled and Akoya pearl necklace and I was worried about using a 21-gauge ring to attach the trigger clasp (we all know that the chain could get caught in the jump ring and work it open). So I made two 21-gauge rings (full hard wire, as I always use with my occasional jump rings). Both jump rings fit easily into the trigger clasp. How cool! (Thanks Lena!)
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
I don't think it's the metal, Fran, but it may be the ratio of the gauge to the weight of the bracelet. I asked our WS Faculty chainmaille expert, Lena Bugrimenko, for her opinion too. She suggested increasing the jump ring gauge; for example, if you are currently using 20-gauge, try using 18-gauge. Lena also gave me a great tip by mentioning that she sometimes uses a smaller gauge jump ring, like 20- or 21-gauge, but uses two of them at a closure point!
I actually followed her advice just yesterday. I made a rather expensive gold-filled and Akoya pearl necklace and I was worried about using a 21-gauge ring to attach the trigger clasp (we all know that the chain could get caught in the jump ring and work it open). So I made two 21-gauge rings (full hard wire, as I always use with my occasional jump rings). Both jump rings fit easily into the trigger clasp. How cool! (Thanks Lena!)
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Materials
Gold Filled Jump Rings
Sterling Silver Jump Rings
Tools
WireJewelry - Ultimate Wire-Pliers Jewelry Pliers with Case, Set of 5
G15-20
- G15-20
- Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
- Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
- Price: $170.72
- Gold Club Price: $128.04
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- Category: General Education
- Technique(s): Making Jump Rings
Dale Armstrong
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