Bead clasp glossary

A

Akoya pearls

Pearls cultivated in saltwater mussels of the species Pinctada fucata martensii. They are known for their round shape and bright shine.

B

Bangle

A circular piece of jewellery that is worn around the wrist. Bangles can be made from different materials and are often decorated.

Bracelet clasp, multi-piece

A clasp that consists of several parts and was specially developed for bracelets. It can include various fastening mechanisms such as a clasp, pin buckle or magnetic clasp.

Brooch

A piece of jewellery that is attached to clothing and is often used as a decorative element or for fastening.

C

Cabochon

A cut gemstone with a smooth, domed surface instead of facets. Cabochons are often used in rings, pendants and earrings.

Carat (kt)

A measure of the fineness of gold, where 24 carat corresponds to pure gold. Gold jewellery is available in different carat contents, with 18 carat and 14 carat being commonly used.

Casket

A small box or container used to safely store or transport jewellery.

Chasing

A technique in which metal is worked with a hammer to create relief patterns or ornate designs.

Clique clasp

A clasp that consists of several interlocking parts and is opened and closed by a rotating movement. It offers a secure connection and an elegant design.

Corrosion protection

Various techniques and coatings used to protect jewellery from corrosion and tarnishing. This can include the application of protective coatings or films, rhodium plating or other processes.

D

Diamond

A precious gemstone that is valued for its hardness, brilliance and rarity in jewellery making.

E

Enamel

A glass coating that is applied to metal and then melted by heat to create a colored surface. Enamel is often used to decorate jewellery.

Engraving

A technique in which a pattern, text or design is cut or etched into the surface of a piece of jewellery. Engravings can be used for personalization or decoration.

F

Filigree work

A technique in which fine wires or metal strips are woven together to create delicate and detailed designs.

Freshwater pearls

Pearls grown in freshwater mussels and available in a variety of shapes and colors. They are often used for necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

G

Galvanizing

A process in which a thinner layer of a metal is deposited on a substrate by immersing the substrate in a solution containing metal ions. It is often used to coat jewellery and give it a certain look.

Gemstones

Natural minerals that are used for jewellery due to their rarity, beauty and hardness. Examples are ruby, sapphire, emerald, etc.

I

Inlay

A technique in which small pieces of a material are inserted into a depression in the base material to create a decorative pattern. Inlay is often used in the manufacture of jewellery.

Interchangeable clasp

A clasp that makes it possible to replace the jewellery pendant or piece of jewellery quickly and easily without having to remove the entire chain or bracelet.

Jewelry design

The process of creative planning and implementation of jewellery pieces, including the selection of materials, designs and manufacturing techniques.

Jewelry paper

Special paper or fabrics used to wrap and protect jewellery.

K

Lobster clasp

A fastening mechanism in the form of a lobster clasp that is attached to a chain or bracelet to close it securely.

M

Magnetic clasp

A clasp that is held together by magnets. It offers a quick and easy way to open and close pieces of jewellery.

Mother-of-pearl

A shiny substance found in the shells of mussels and snails. Mother-of-pearl is often used for decorative elements in jewellery.

P

Pin buckle

A clasp that consists of a pin (pin) and an eyelet and is closed by inserting the pin into the eyelet. It is often found on bracelets and watch straps.

Pt

Abbreviation for platinum, a rare and valuable metal used for jewellery due to its hardness, durability and elegant appearance.

R

Rhodium plating

A process in which a thinner layer of rhodium is applied to the surface of white gold or silver to protect it from tarnishing and give it a brighter shine.

S

Safety clasp

An additional locking mechanism that ensures that the piece of jewellery stays securely on the wearer, even if the main clasp is accidentally opened.

Screw cap

A locking mechanism in which a thread is screwed on to secure the piece of jewellery. Often used for earrings and necklaces.

Set stones

Small gemstones that are set into pieces of jewellery to decorate them and add extra sparkle.

Sterling silver

A silver alloy that is widely used in jewellery production. It consists of 92.5 % pure silver and 7.5 % other metals such as copper to increase its strength.

T

Tahitian pearls

Pearls that are cultivated in the waters around Tahiti and French Polynesia. They are known for their dark colors and rich luster.

Traditional costume jewellery

Pieces of jewellery that are traditionally worn with traditional clothing or regional costumes. They often reflect the cultural and historical traditions of a particular region.

Trailer

A piece of jewellery that is attached to a chain or ribbon and worn around the neck. Pendants can have different shapes and designs and are often adorned with gemstones or other embellishments.

W

WG

Abbreviation for white gold, an alloy of gold and white-appearing metals such as palladium, silver or nickel, which has a silver-white color.

YG

Abbreviation for yellow gold, an alloy of gold and other metals such as copper and silver, which has a yellow color.

Z

Zirconia

A synthetic gemstone that is often used as a substitute for diamonds, as it has a similar brilliance but is less expensive.