Since more artists are loving our stainless steel chains, we have been fielding a lot of questions about the best jump ring to pair with them. It is easy to assume that just matching the metal is the way to go, especially since stainless steel is so brilliant for its durability, affordability, and resistance to tarnishing, but we’re constantly getting asked: "If I’m using a stainless steel chain, why can't I use a stainless steel jump ring too?"
The answer, quite simply, comes down to safety. Here is why using a stainless steel jump ring with stainless steel chains is a big no:
Every Piece of Permanent Jewellery Needs a Safe Break Point
Permanent jewellery is designed to be worn continuously, but there may be situations where it needs to come off unexpectedly.
For example:
- The piece gets caught on clothing, equipment or machinery.
- A child pulls on the chain.
- The jewellery snags on a bag, door handle or piece of furniture.
- The wearer requires urgent jewellery removal due to a medical emergency.
In these situations, the jewellery needs a weak point that gives way under excessive force. This is known as a safe break point.
The Problem with Stainless Steel Jump Rings
Stainless steel is an incredibly strong material. This strength makes it ideal for durable, long-lasting permanent jewellery.
However, combining stainless steel chains with a stainless steel jump rings creates a piece that is nearly impossible to break. When excessive force occurs, the chain will not give way. Instead, that force transfers directly to the wearer’s skin, increasing the risk of abrasions, cuts, or bruising.
These incidents are rare, but PJ artists must prioritize safety over aesthetics. Choosing the right jump ring ensures the finished piece remains both beautiful and safe for the wearer.
The Right Jump Rings for Stainless Steel
The number one concern customers have with permanent jewellery is whether it will hold up over time. Getting the hardware right is the secret to building pieces your customers can truly trust.
For those stainless steel chains, we recommend still using 925 sterling silver and 14k gold-filled jump rings. These materials are more than sturdy enough to handle all the fun of daily life, but if things get a bit too intense, they are much more likely to fail before the chain does.
Think of it like a fuse in an electrical circuit. The fuse isn't there because it's weak. It's there because it provides protection when something unexpected happens.
Does This Affect Durability?
A properly closed 14k gold filled or 925 sterling silver jump ring provides excellent durability for day-to-day wear. It will only fail when subjected to a level of force that would be considered excessive and potentially dangerous to the wearer.
Not at all. Using a different material for your jump rings than the chain itself does not mean you are compromising on quality.
For all the normal activities that make up a customer's daily routine, they can wear their jewellery with absolute confidence.
Creating with Confidence
At the end of the day, your goal is to create pieces that your clients love and feel safe wearing. Every choice you make reflects the care you put into your PJ business. By choosing the right components, you are not just making jewellery, you are building a reputation for quality.
As both a supplier and a PJ artist, we understand how materials impact the longevity of your work, which is why we only source and recommend components that meet our own high standards for durability. We are here to bring you the highest quality supplies for permanent jewellery and guide you toward the most reliable materials to make your creations shine.
