Jewelry-making Basics: What is a jewelry toggle?

Other toggle choices can be seen here:

This is the second page in a set of topics on jewelry-making basics.

What is a jewelry toggle? (Jewellery toggle for you Brits…)

A jewelry toggle is a set of two pieces: a jewelry loop and a jewelry stick. The jewelry loop is attached to one end of your jewelry chain, strung beads, seed bead weave, wire crochet, etc. The jewelry stick is attached to the other end.

To hold the jewelry together around the neck, wrist, ankle, one inserts the jewelry stick through the jewelry loop; the stick then rests against the jewelry loop to hold the jewelry together.

Your "stick" may be as simple as a button with a shank used with a loop of seed beads on bead wire. Your loop may be quite fancy, with "expandable" toggles of several rings attached together.

Mechanics of a Toggle:

The shortest distance from your anchor point (often a ring soldered on or cast midway a metal toggle stick) to the end of the stick must be longer than the widest opening of your toggle loop. Otherwise, the toggle stick will easily slip through the loop and the jewelry will drop off.

Toggle Materials:

Most toggles used in the United States will be made of cast or assembled metal alloys: Platinum, Gold, Palladium and Sterling Silver for high end jewelry; Stainless Steel and Titanium for edgy, contemporary jewelry. Gold-filled and Sterling Silver for middle-market products. Plated toggles will be mostly metal over brass or surgical steel. Metal plating includes gold-plated, silver-plated, copper-plated and antiqued copper, "blackened nickel" or gunmetal. Solid copper toggles have their enthusiasts for the alleged medical benefits. Raw brass, lacquered brass or Brass Ox (oxidized brass) toggles have their fans, too.

One may also find toggle sets of wood or stone.

Some toggles are decorated with crystals, cubic zirconia or gemstones.

Paul
www.ohiobeads.com Bead Blog
www.ohiobeads.com: online shopping for bulk jewelry chain, findings and other jewelry-making supplies