Interchangeable Clasps

Reversible PanAm clasp by Gellner

Reversible PanAm clasp by Gellner

One style of jewelry I’m known for carrying, as well as creating in my shop, is interchangeable necklace clasps. Designers like Marcel Roelofs, Gellner, and Jorg Heinz span the stylistic spectrum from classic and conservative to ultra-contemporary. Then there are the pieces I design, and my shop produces.

Reversible hematite clasp by Jorg Heinz on a strand of slate and pyrite nuggets

Reversible hematite clasp by Jorg Heinz on a strand of slate and pyrite nuggets

These clasps can be worn on simple chains or your favorite strands of pearls. But I also carry more unique styles of necklace: things like rough-cut stone nuggets, plain cords of silicon or stingray leather, stainless steel multi-strands.

The secret is the connection system. The connector ends of the necklace are inserted into specialized receiving ends built into the clasps. The connector ends can be added to almost any existing chain. Pearls and other strand necklaces can be restrung to accommodate the ends. For pearls, we will also drill out a pearl to hold the receiving ends so you can wear your pearls as an endless strand.

This was once a ring; I've turned it into an interchangeable clasp.

This was once a ring; I’ve turned it into an interchangeable clasp.

After that, the fun really begins. The system is so highly adaptable. There are so many styles of clasps out there already, but literally just about anything can be customized to become a clasp – antique cameos, rings, existing pendants, brooches. I’ve converted some pretty fantastic things into some pretty fantastic clasps.

As to the clasps I have in stock: there is a pretty vast selection. Some are reversible. Some are multi-faced beyond the paradigm of front and back because of an unconventional shape, so you can wear them however you want. I’m working on some custom pieces right now with two pairs of receiving ends, so they can be worn horizontally in line with the necklace, or vertically, perpendicular to the line of the necklace.

Just having two different necklaces with the interchangeable ends can transform your single clasp from sporty and post-modern to elegant evening affair. Switching a strand of pearls out for a high-polished braided steel cable jumps you right back through the style warp.

One of my custom interchangeable clasps on various kinds of necklaces

One of my custom interchangeable clasps on various kinds of necklaces

Multifaced Murano glass interchangeable clasp on a brown stingray leather cord

Multifaced Murano glass interchangeable clasp on a brown stingray leather cord

Price points vary as greatly as the potential styles. I have a wide selection of Murano glass clasps that are all under $150, but I also have some real show stoppers if you’re searching for a gift for a big birthday or anniversary.

Necklaces with the connector ends, too, can range from a simple silicon cord with steel ends (about $200) to an exquisite strand of multicolored or matched pearls ($2000 and much more).

Mother’s Day is right around the corner. Our Annual May Sale runs the week leading up to it, which gives you an excellent opportunity to get started on a gift that is easy to build upon.

Stainless steel barrel clasp with a row of diamonds on fine Tahitian pearls

Stainless steel barrel clasp with a row of diamonds on fine Tahitian pearls

Posted in: Interchangeable Clasp Necklaces, Interchangeable Pendant

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