Using magnetic clasps

[Luann Udell]

Okay, I made my first bracelet with magnetic clasps.  I'm finding they are not very practical for bracelets and would like to get feedback on this, and other uses.

I LOVE how easy the clasps are to use with a bracelet!  Unfortunately, the least little tug and they disengage.  I was trying on clothes at a store and kept losing the bracelet.  

Also putting on and taking off a coat was enough to pop it off.    

Also carrying something (a box) that sort of grabbed the bracelet.  It was not enough force to break or even grab at a normal lobster-clasp secured bracelet, but it was enough to pull the bracelet off.  Fortunately I noticed it was missing immediately and found it in the grass!

Has anyone used these in necklaces?  Is a necklace a better use of these, since presumably your neck isn't working as hard as your hands/wrists??  

One more question:  I'm still using the first clasps I bought from R&T, I think item #39-306-3.  I had issues because the "ring" for attaching these to cord is too small for jumprings.  I can only attach them using Softflex or Beadalon or similar braided cable cord.  (I've since switched to #39-539-11, with a bigger ring, but I have bunches of the smaller ones.)

I went to make something with the smaller ones using Beadalon and crimps to attach them--and the magnet is attracted to the crimp!  I usually only buy sterling silver crimps, so I was surprised.  Is this normal?  I kept trying to pull the magnet back into "upright" position, but it kept dipping down!

It may be okay, but it just looked weird.

Is there a secret to using magnetic clasps I'm just not getting??  Or do they just do this (try to click onto other metal components) until they snap together?

I WANT to like magnetic clasps, I really do.....   '>

Are my questions odd???

[josie]

I've found magnets on necklaces are much more functional than on a bracelet!  The bracelet was always sticking to the metal surface of my desk!   '>
     Necklaces are a different story.  The clasp stays together much better because the back of your neck rarely brushes up against a metal surface that would attract it.  
    
     For item #39-306-3, I tested it with our 6mm split rings (item#41-216-3) and they fit in the hole!  I would suggest a split ring for use with a magnet clasp because the split ring wont come open and it would be more durable for the long-term wear and tear of your piece.

     Lastly, the magnet will be attracted to any compatable metals-so, what I suggest is to affix the magnet to a metal surface to divert the magnetism from other little metal components.  
  
     Hope that helps!
-Josie
R&T Sales Staff

[Luann Udell]

Thanks, Josie!  I was thinking maybe the clasps would be better with necklaces, too.

I may have some split rings, or I'll order some when I put in my next "must have" list with R&T!  

[ag1kulrn]

I use the small magnets at Fire Mountain.  They are 3000 gauss, and I use them on bracelets all the time without any problems!  In fact, they are so strong that I've had customers say they (the magnets) pick up silverware on tables at restaurants when they lean the magnet on the table!  You have to pick carefully, however.  NEVER buy magnet clasps that are mostly outer metal with very tiny magnets inside - those hold nothing.  The FMG magnets I get are:
    Clasp, magnetic, silver-plated brass, 8x6x6mm barrel. Sold per pkg of 100.  #Order Number: H20-7238FN

Tiny, but strong. Ideal for light- and medium-weight necklaces. For best results, slide clasp ends apart to keep magnet from loosening.  3000 gauss.

1 - 14    15 - 49   50 - 199   200+ items in order
$26.90  $21.14  $17.74      $15.97
  

These are the bomb!  I've bought and used over 1000 of these and NEVER had a complaint.  On the bracelet I usually do safety chains (even though the magnet itself doesn't really need it) because people like them, they like the security of it.  The magnets are small enough that with 4mm oval jumprings holding them onto a piece, the entire clasp is 1/2 inch total, so it doesn't add a lot to the length of a necklace or bracelet.  You almost need tools to get the 2 halves apart tho! LOL
Angela