We have come a long way in the different ways that we can make jewelry easier to attach to our bodies.
It used to be that clasps were made with spring rings or other breakable metal movements in them that wear out, now we have other options.
If you have a problem using clasps because either they are too tiny to use with arthritic fingers, or too hard to manipulate with thick fake nails, or if they snag and pull out your hair in the back of your neck, or they are almost impossible to get on as in the case of a bracelet, then you are now in luck!
We now have magnetic clasps that work quite well.
When it comes to finding the best magnetic clasps for jewelry, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- First, not all magnets are created equal! There are different strengths and sizes of magnets, so you need to make sure you pick the right one for your jewelry.
- Second, you need to make sure the clasp is strong enough to hold the weight of the jewelry.
- And finally, you need to make sure it is easy to use.
In this blog post, we will discuss the best magnetic clasps for jewelry and how to use them.
Table of Contents
What Are Magnetic Clasps And How Do They Work?
Magnetic clasps are the small connector ends that you can have attached near to the ends of chains.
The typical use for these types of clasps are used in necklaces, anklets or bracelets.
Anywhere that you would use a regular lobster spring ring, or even box or barrel clasp, you can also use a magnetic clasp.
They come in different sizes and shapes and attach near to the regular clasp ends so that all you have to do is pull them apart, rather than use the clasps that are there with it.
These clasps come in many different types of metals depending on what your needs are.
From gold to platinum to silver, or just plated, they are an answer to the frustrations that can come with trying to put on certain types of jewelry.
Are Magnetic Jewelry Clasps Secure?
Magnetic clasps are very secure, but the trick is to make certain that the magnet is strong, rather than weak.
The larger the clasp, the stronger the magnetic strength should be, but do not presume anything without testing it first.
The magnetic clasps, once attached, can be separated simply by breaking the bond between magnet ends by wedging your fingernail and then sliding them apart. These clasps also can be purchased with a safety chain like many other clasps have.
How To Use A Magnetic Jewelry Clasp
You can use a magnetic clasp by separating the jump ring that attaches the regular clasp and inserting the magnetic clasp.
However, doing this on soft metals will eventually result in the jump ring separating and you will lose the clasp.
Any time that you attach a clasp, it should be soldered to permanently close the area where the separation took place to ensure that when it gets tugged on, it does not come apart easily.
The best advice is to take your jewelry to a jewelry store who will solder the jump rings in place so that you do not end up with broken clasps.
This should not cost you anymore than $20 because no metal is added other than solder material, and it only takes two or three minutes to do.
Different Types of Magnets And Their Strengths
There are basically two different “types” of magnetic clasps, although there are hundreds of different “styles”.
Types are described as either “screw on” or “simple magnetic” which means either having or not having screw threads on the ends as an additional security.
Screw On Magnetic Clasp
Probably the most secure type of magnetic jewelry clasp would be the screw in type.
This clasp not only has the magnet to hold it in place, it also requires you to screw in in place as an additional security measure the same way you would use screw on pipe fittings.
These come in various metals, but most commonly are found in 14k gold although you can go onto Amazon and buy the cheaper plated ones.
The plated ones will wear off depending on the amount of use. These clasps are barrel shaped and the magnets are set deeper inside so that there is room for the screw threads.
Button Style Magnetic Clasp
Next are the “button” or “ball” types of magnetic clasps.
These look like small round buttons or round balls that have the magnets concealed inside.
All you do is place one button on top of the other to use.
Some come with safety chains, but those are more likely to be made of gold. The button types, along with the standard ball shaped types are the most common.
Your local jewelry store will have every type of magnetic clasp available and you can look through their books to pick out the one best suited for your jewelry.
These button or standard ball types of clasps are more versatile than the screw on barrel types only because they can be purchased in the largest array of sizes, which means larger stronger magnets, however, their strength is still less than the screw on types.
The Best Magnetic Clasps For Jewelry (Our Recommendations)
After much trial and error, we’ve come to the conclusion that the best magnetic clasps for jewelry are the screw on type.
They are more expensive than the regular button style ones, but they will save you money in the long run because they will not need to be replaced as often.
We also like them because they are much stronger and less likely to come undone. The screw on type is also great if you have children because they cannot just “pull them apart” like they can the button style clasps.
Here are our top picks for best magnetic clasps for jewelry:
Best Magnetic Clasp For Jewelry: Zpsolution Screw Magnetic Clasps
The screw-on style of magnetic clasps by Zpsolution is one of the best on Amazon because they come in a variety of sizes and colors including gold, silver, and black. We like them because they are very strong and have never come undone.
Because they are nickel-free, they are also great for people with metal allergies. These clasps will work best with necklaces and bracelets that are up to 12mm wide.
Runner Up: Tegg Silver Plated MagneticClever Clasps
While technically a button type clasp, the Tegg Silver Plated Magnetic Clever Clasps are quite strong and great for those with longer nails.
If you suffer from arthritis or have any type of disability that makes it difficult to manipulate small things, then the Tegg clasps are a great choice.
They are easy to use and don’t require a lot of dexterity.
Tips For Choosing The Right Magnetic Clasp
The type of magnetic clasp that you will want to consider will depend on the kind of jewelry you have, and the value of it.
If you have a faux three strand pearl necklace then you can use the plated or sterling silver clasps.
These come in many sizes and styles, but the point still remains that you should have the open jump rings soldered or you risk them eventually coming apart when you apply the pressure to separate the magnetic ends after each use.
These clasps can be soldered by a jewelry store that has a laser welder because it is safer than using a torch and can be used on any type of metal.
If you have more expensive pieces of jewelry and need magnetic clasps for them, then you will want to go into your local jewelry store and buy it, or else buy online and take it to the jewelry store to attach it.
You may want to consider the screw-on type of magnetic clasp, or else, the clasps that have an additional safety chain on them such as are on gold or platinum bracelets.
Speaking of bracelets, these are the most difficult pieces of jewelry to put magnetic clasps on unless they are the bangle types.
Magnet clasps will drastically reduce the frustration and will put an end to doing all the contortions or asking for help.
If you have antique jewelry then you may want to consider using these magnetic clasps while at the same time doing nothing to alter the original design of the jewelry.
The value of antique jewelry goes down considerably if you permanently alter it in any way other than repairs.
If you replace the clasp on your antique piece, be certain to keep the pieces you remove so that it can be reattached in the future.
Final Thoughts
Gone are the days when you let your jewelry sit unworn because you either can’t get it on by yourself.
Do consider magnetic clasps that can be added to the ends of your jewelry so that you can wear your treasures once again!
Do keep in mind that some require soldering, but it is a very easy process that can be done quickly by most jewelers.