Jump Rings

Jump rings are essential in jewellery making, serving as connectors for various elements like clasps, pendants, and charms. They are key to adding functionality and versatility to your designs.

Open and closed jump rings are fundamental components in jewellery making, each serving specific purposes:

• Open Jump Rings: These are the most common type of jump rings, characterized by a cut that allows them to be opened and closed. To use an open jump rings, hold each side of the ring with pliers (preferably needle-nose or parallel pliers). Then, gently twist one side towards you and the other away from you to open the jump ring. Avoid pulling the ends directly apart, as this can weaken the metal. Thread the open ring through the loop of the component you're attaching (like a charm or clasp), then through the chain or link. Close the ring by reversing the twisting motion, aligning the ends closely to ensure a secure closure. It's crucial to achieve a tight, gap-free closure to prevent the ring from snagging or the attached components from slipping off. For the most secure closure, soldering is essential. Match purity of the solder to the jump ring for a seamless finish.

• Closed Jump Rings: Unlike their open counterparts, closed jump rings are soldered shut, offering a permanent and secure connection. They are typically used where movement is minimal and additional security is needed. Closed jump rings are commonly used as a stationary link in a piece of jewellery, such as the end ring in a necklace to which a clasp is attached. Since they cannot be opened, they need to be used differently than open jump rings. They are usually incorporated into the design from the start, or they can be attached by threading another open jump ring or a split ring through them.

To secure open jump rings, carefully align the ends after twisting them open and close them tightly. Proper alignment and closure techniques are crucial for ensuring longevity and stability. For a permanent closure open jump rings can be soldered into closed jump rings.

Link locks and split rings are popular choices for secure jewellery connections, each serving a unique purpose and delivering a different aesthetic:

• Link Locks: These are small, yet strong locking mechanisms designed for securely attaching pendants or charms to chains without the need for soldering. To use a link lock, open the lock by gently pushing the lever with a small tool or your fingernail. Slide the open end through the loop or ring of the pendant and the chain link where you want it attached. Return the link to its original position and gently push the lock closed. (look for the small serration and align it with the lever on the outer tube) Gently push the lever to lock it in place. Link locks provide a secure hold, ensuring that your pendants or charms stay attached to the chain.

• Split Rings: Resembling tiny key rings, offer a more secure alternative to traditional jump rings. To use a split ring, slightly separate the coils, similar to how you would add a key to a key ring. Slide the end of the split ring into the hole of the charm or component you're attaching and twist it around until the item is securely on the ring. Split rings are ideal for situations where a stronger hold is required, as they are less likely to be pulled open than standard jump rings.