Jump rings might be small, but they play a big role in jewellery making, especially in the world of permanent jewellery. Whether you’re connecting charms, securing chains, or creating custom links, choosing the right jump ring is key to both durability and design.
What Is a Jump Ring?
A jump ring is a small metal ring, usually circular, that acts as a connector in jewellery making. It’s made by coiling metal wire into a loop and then cutting it, so each jump ring is essentially a tiny slice of wire-turned-circle.
Alongside the outer diameter (how wide the ring is overall), the gauge determines how the jump ring will look and function in your design.
Small but mighty, they’re essential for both form and function — especially when you’re working with welded, long-lasting pieces.
How To Choose Which Size Jump Ring To Use
When picking the right jump ring, it’s all about finding the perfect balance between strength and subtlety.
A thicker wire diameter (lower gauge number) will give you a stronger, more secure connection which is ideal for areas under tension or heavier charms.
But it’s just as important to consider the size of your chain links. If the jump ring is too large or chunky, it can look bulky and distract from your design. On the flip side, a ring that’s too thin might not hold up to daily wear.
Who would have thought something so simple can be so confusing?!
Ultimately, make sure the wire diameter is small enough to fit through the chain links and complement their proportions. For sleek, seamless jewellery, choose a jump ring that blends in with the link size and finishes strong with a secure weld.
What If The Chain Links Are Too Tight To Fit a Jump Ring Through?
It’s quite common for certain chains — like chunky curbs or fine cable styles — to have tight or narrow links that make it difficult to insert a jump ring. In these cases, you’ll need to add the jump ring through the very end link.
To ensure the best fit, always size the bracelet or anklet before cutting the chain, then test your jump ring in the final link. If the customer finds the fit too loose, you can remove a link until they’re happy with how it sits. Just remember, once a link is removed, it can’t be reattached, so take it slow and adjust carefully.
