How to Clasp a Pearl Necklace

A pearl necklace may be secured around the neck with one of many different types of clasps.

With their captivating luster and spherical shapes, pearls make enchanting jewelry components. One of the most popular types of pearl jewelry is a pearl necklace, which typically features a single strand of pearls ending in a clasp. The clasp should be sturdy enough to keep the pearls fastened securely around their wearer's neck, but uncomplicated enough to allow the pearls to be put on and removed with ease. Pearl necklaces can feature a variety of different clasp types. These include spring clasps, box clasps, and S-shaped clasps, all of which are easy to operate.

Instructions

Spring Ring Clasp

1. Note that this type of clasp is comprised of two parts: a metal spring ring, which opens when you press a small lever down; and a closed metal ring that slides into the spring ring when it is opened and remains inside of it when it is closed.

2. Grasp the spring ring that has a tiny lever emerging from it. Use your thumb to push the lever down and open the spring ring.

3. Hold the closed ring between the thumb and forefinger of your other hand. Insert the closed ring into the opening in the spring ring.

4. Remove your thumb from the lever, allowing the spring ring to close.

5. Unclasp the spring ring clasp by using the same steps you used to clasp it, but pull the closed ring out of the opened spring ring.

Box Clasp

1. Observe that a box clasp consists of two components: a metal box with a slit in it; and a metal wedge that, when compressed, fits into the slit of the box.

2. Grasp the metal wedge in one hand. Use your thumb and forefinger to compress it.

3. Hold the metal box between the thumb and forefinger of your other hand. Slide the compressed wedge into the slit in the metal box. Release your thumb and forefinger from the wedge so that it opens slightly once it is inside the metal box, where it will remain secure.

4. Unclasp a box clasp by compressing the wedge with your thumb and forefinger and sliding it out of the slit in the box.

S-Clasp

1. Note that an S-clasp consists of two parts: a metal S and a closed metal ring. The two ends of the S come very close to meeting the center of the S.

2. Grasp the S between your thumb and forefinger. Hold the closed ring between the thumb and forefinger of your other hand.

3. Push the closed ring onto the S. Slide it onto one end of the S and push it through the slim gap between the end of the S and the center of the S so that it rests in the center of the S.

4. Unclasp an S-clasp by pulling the ring off of the S in the same manner that you slid it on.

Tips & Warnings

• Clasp and unclasp your pearl necklace while looking into a mirror with the clasp positioned near the front of your throat. This allows you to see what you are doing and can make the process easier.

References

• Jewelrymaking Beads Library: Jewelry Clasps