What are findings in jewellery making?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Findings is the collective term for the functional hardware components used to construct, connect and fasten jewellery. The category includes clasps for necklaces and bracelets, earring wires, studs and backs, jump rings for connecting elements, pendant bails, pin backs for brooches, and crimp beads for finishing strung pieces. Findings do the practical work of holding a piece together and allowing it to be worn, and quality findings in precious metal make a real difference to the longevity and feel of the finished jewellery.
Frequently asked questions
- What metal are findings usually made from?
- For costume and fashion jewellery, findings are often brass or base metal, sometimes plated in gold or silver. For fine jewellery they should match the metal of the piece itself, so you would use sterling silver findings on silver jewellery and 9ct or 18ct gold findings on a gold piece.
- Can I replace findings on existing jewellery?
- Yes, a jeweller can replace clasps, earring backs, jump rings and similar components without touching the rest of the piece. Upgrading to better quality findings is a sensible way to improve a piece you love that has a weak or worn catch.
- What are the most common types of findings?
- Lobster clasps and spring ring clasps are the most common for necklaces and bracelets. Earring wires, lever backs and push backs are the standard earring findings, and jump rings appear throughout jewellery as connectors between elements.
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