Jump Ring, Split Rings & Connector Links

A collection of Jump Rings and Split Rings available from Banjos Bead House and our suppliers.

Jump Rings
Jump rings are the most common connector for jewelry making. They are made from many types of metals and range in size from 2mm and up. Jump Rings are a metal loop with a cut, the cut enables the sideways twisting of the ring in order to connect pieces.

Adjusting a Jump Ring

Never pull jump ring halves straight apart from each other because it will stress the metal and can cause breakage. To adjust or open a jump ring, use two pairs pliers, holding each side of the ring with pliers, slowly twist that side open just enough to complete your task. After you are finished, slowly twist the sides of the jump ring back into place pliers so the ends meet once again.

Closed Jump Rings

Closed jump rings are small metal rings used in jewelry making. Unlike traditional open jump rings, which have a small break that allows them to be opened and closed, closed jump rings are fully sealed loops. They are commonly used to connect various components of jewelry, such as chains, clasps, and charms, providing a secure link between elements.

Split Rings
Split rings are also made of many different metals and in many sizes. They look like tiny keychain rings, split rings keep jewelry components connected without having to solder.

Using a Split Ring
The easiest way to use a split ring is to wedge your thumbnail between the split and slide a charm (or other jewelry piece) onto the ring. Make sure the piece you are sliding goes all the way around the ring until it is completely safe inside and cannot work itself loose.

If your thumbnail is not long enough, or it is painful to use, you may use a pair of split ring tweezers or split ring pliers. These special tweezers and pliers feature what looks like a bent tip to wedge between the ring split.

Connector Links

Connector links are also known as a 3-link figure 8 or infinity link, based on their shape.

These links are a great way to create a bail, connect chain, or closed linked rings when designing.

To use you will simply add in the piece you wish to connect into one side of the three and press it close with a pair of pliers and repeat on the other side, resulting in the conversion of the link from looking like a 3 to an 8.