Each of us in our lives is faced with the purchase of such jewelry as a chain. And first of all, we pay attention to the beauty and aesthetics of the product, but it is also important to pay attention to the clasp. The reliability of fixing the chain depends on its quality and type. In addition, it must be combined with the main part of the product. This functional element should not cause you discomfort while wearing it.
In this article we will look at the types of fasteners and give some simple tips on choosing a chain lock.
Spring clasp
The most common type of lock is the spring clasp. It is a small ring and fits perfectly with delicate jewelry. However, such an element has a number of disadvantages. First of all, it is difficult to secure it yourself. The internal mechanism, represented by a spring, often fails and replacing it is problematic. Moreover, you can lose the product unnoticed.
Karabinchik
The second no less popular clasp is called a lobster clasp.Its design is more reliable and simpler than the previous one. It is quite easy to fasten a product with such a fastener yourself by opening the spring latch. This eliminates unexpected loss of the chain. In case of breakdown, the mechanism is easy to repair.
Reference! Snap hooks are not suitable for thin and airy chain weaves due to their massiveness. Therefore, you will find such a fastener only on large products.
There are two types of fasteners: drop and rectangle. In the first case it is called a crab or lobster, in the second - a parrot.
Crutch
Simple, but at the same time strong and reliable. It is a small stick-pin that fits into the ring on the opposite side of the chain. With this closure, the product will definitely not open on its own and will slip out. Externally, the decoration with a pin clasp looks stylish and elegant.
Eight
In terms of its design, it is one of the simplest locks and at the same time extremely reliable. Made in the form of a thin wire bent in the shape of a figure eight.
The chain itself is threaded into one end, and the lock ring into the other. If your product is made of thin material, the clasp can easily unfasten and fall. Because of this, it is used only for jewelry.
Screw lock
Ideal for a necklace or necklace. The components of the structure on both sides of the chain are connected with a screw. A significant drawback is that the thread is extremely thin and the service life is short, especially if it is closed frequently.
Box
This fastener is considered the most reliable of all and is installed on expensive products. The cost of these chains is significantly higher, as the weight increases.
Using this lock you can connect large parts of the chain. The castle got its name because of its design.A part in the form of a box is attached to one end, and on the other there is a hook that fits into the box and is secured with notches.
There are several varieties and they all differ in the shape of the hook. For reliability, a clasp with a double-sided lock has been developed.
Chain lock
This is a type of box, only simpler. It can often be found in thin chains. One part is shaped like a tube and a hook is inserted into it.
Butterfly
This clasp is also one of the most reliable. It can be found less often in chains, mainly in bracelets. The main goal is to protect the product from accidental opening. The mechanisms are installed in such a way that this is practically impossible. They are shaped like butterfly wings and open in a similar way, hence the name. When buttoned, the lock is practically invisible.
The most reliable types of chain locks
Despite the fact that there are many types of locks, not all of them can be called reliable. Some of them open up on their own during wear, and you are very likely to lose the item.
Interesting! Most modern expensive chains are made with a fancy locking device. I don’t even want to hide such mechanisms. Small details can perfectly complement your look.
The most reliable locks:
- Carabiner. A simple lock that can last a long time
- Crutch. A light and elegant lock, but at the same time it prevents the chain from unfastening and falling.
- Box. Often used in expensive and massive jewelry. This allows the owner of the chain not to worry about its reliability.
- Chain lock. Similar to “boxes”, but designed for thin chains.
- Butterfly. More often found in massive jewelry or watches.
Useful tips for choosing fasteners
During the operation of the product, the main load is placed on its fastener. Moreover, the task becomes more complicated if you want to add a pendant or pendant. Over time, the mechanism may weaken or fail completely.
There are a number of requirements for the quality of the lock:
- all parts of the mechanism must ensure smooth closing, without jerking or shifting;
- must fit perfectly with the main product and match the metal from which the chain is made;
- the fastener itself must be perfectly smooth and not chipped or jagged;
- the most convenient ones are those that you can open with one hand;
- An important aspect is where you will put the chains on. If your job involves physical activity, then you should leave your jewelry at home.
All locks must meet these requirements. When choosing the perfect piece of jewelry (no matter what kind of chain it is gold or silver), you must take into account all the rules. Then your product will be not only an object of beauty, but also of reliability. After all, such insignificant parts as a clasp can turn out to be the most important elements.