Findings
The trade word for all the small functional parts of a piece: clasps, jump rings, posts, backs, caps and pins.
Findings are everything that is not the stone, the pearl or the decorative body. They are what makes a piece wearable.
They are also where cost is quietly cut, because a customer inspects the pearls and rarely inspects the clasp.
Good findings are matched to the metal of the piece, so a silver necklace should not end in a plated base-metal clasp.
When you are buying
Ask what the findings are made of, not just the body. A 925 silver piece finished with a brass clasp is a common and avoidable compromise.
Clasp
The fastening that closes a necklace or bracelet. The most common point of failure and the most overlooked part of a purchase.
Jump Ring
A small metal ring joining two parts of a piece. The commonest failure point after the clasp.
Ear Wire
The hook that passes through the piercing on a hanging earring.
Bead Cap
A small cupped metal piece that sits over the end of a bead or pearl, hiding the drill hole and adding detail.
925 Sterling Silver
An alloy of 92.5% silver with 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The international standard for silver jewellery.