# Types of jewelry clasps (necklaces, bracelets and earrings)

> Necklace and bracelet clasps (lobster, spring ring, toggle, box, barrel, magnetic) and earring backs (butterfly, screw, lever, clip).

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/types-of-jewelry-clasps-and-earring-backs/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-07-25
- Updated: 2026-07-25
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/tipos-de-cierres-y-broches-de-joyeria/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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A clasp joins the ends of a jewel or fastens an earring. It is one of the parts most used and most worn; it is worth choosing well.

![Six necklace and bracelet clasps drawn](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/clasp-types.en.svg "Necklace and bracelet clasps")

![Five earring fastening systems](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/earring-backs.en.svg "Earring fastening systems")

## Necklace and bracelet clasps

- **Lobster claw:** a claw with a spring; very secure.
- **Spring ring:** a ring with a pin; common on fine chains.
- **Toggle:** a bar that crosses a ring; decorative.
- **Box and tongue:** a V tongue enters a box; usually has a safety.
- **Barrel:** two halves that screw together.
- **Magnetic:** closes with a magnet; convenient, not for heavy pieces.
- **Fold-over (deployant):** for watch bands and bangles.

## Earring backs

- **Butterfly (push-back):** a piece that slides onto the post.
- **Screw-back:** the post is threaded; more secure.
- **Lever-back:** a hinge that closes behind the ear.
- **Clip-on:** a clamp for unpierced ears.
- **Latch and French clip:** clasps built into the earring.

## How to choose

For heavy necklaces, a lobster claw or box with a safety; for heavy earrings, screw or lever back. Check them regularly.

## How to choose a clasp

- **Heavy or valuable necklaces:** lobster claw or box with a safety.
- **Fine chains:** spring ring.
- **Bracelets you put on alone:** toggle or magnetic.
- **Pearls:** box clasp, which holds the thread better.
- **Drop or heavy earrings:** screw or lever back.

## What fails most often

The lobster-claw spring loosens, the tongue of the box loses tension, and an earring butterfly stretches. Replace them before they fail: it is a cheap repair. See [repairing a chain](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-fix-a-broken-chain/) and [professional maintenance](https://www.711grados.com/en/professional-jewelry-maintenance/).

## Extra security

Many box clasps have a **figure-eight safety**: a small piece that stops the tongue from slipping out. Highly recommended on valuable bracelets.

## See also

- [Catalog of chain links](https://www.711grados.com/en/catalog-of-chain-links/)
- [Earring styles: stud, hoop, drop, chandelier and more](https://www.711grados.com/en/earring-styles/)
- [How to fix a broken chain](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-fix-a-broken-chain/)