Stones and Findings: How to Attach a Clam Shell

The clam shell is a great kind of clasp, and is easy to attach. Our example uses Softflex Wire, a 2mm Sterling Silver Crimping Bead, and a Sterling Silver Clam Shell. You will also need a set of chain nose pliers and a set of wire cutters. If you don't have wire cutters, nail clippers are a surprisingly effective substitute.

Attaching the Clam Shell

Slide the Softflex wire through the clam shell, and then through the crimping bead. Now hold the wire with your fingers while using the tip of the chain nose pliers to fit the crimping bead snugly into the 'mouth' of the clam shell. Then you can use a slightly broader section of the pliers' teeth to crimp the bead. This will lock the clam shell in place. All that remains is to trim the excess wire with your wire cutters. Finished!

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• clam shell
• jewellery finish
• design
• wholesaler
• silver
• gold
• help
• how to.

[Wendalore65]

Hi, What's that thing you put on the wire after you put the clam shell on? A crimp cover? BTW, thanks for posting this. Would be nice to have terminology for the items, such as that tool you installed the... crimp cover? and also cut the wire with.

[StonesFindings]

@Wendalore65

After the clam shell, we attached a crimp bead 2mm by 2mm which you crimp in place, and cover with the clam shell for a more polished effect. All of the items that we used are indicated above, below the video. Thanks again for checking us out!

[sunsetcrystals]

Handy info - thanks for sharing