Open Jump Ring 5 x 0.6 mm, 18K Gold-Plated Stainless Steel 304

This jump ring is delicate and works best for lightweight connections, such as earrings, small pendants, bead links, and attaching thin chains. At 0.6 mm, the wire is noticeably thinner than, for example, 0.8–1 mm jump rings, so the main advantage of this ring is its lightness and delicate look.

The wire thickness of a jump ring directly affects how easily the ring bends under load. If a connection is under constant tension or a heavy component is attached to it, a 0.6 mm jump ring may be too thin. For example, a heavy pendant, a bracelet clasp, or a bag charm are better attached with a thicker jump ring.

Hold the jump ring with two pairs of pliers, one on each side of the ring, and twist the ends sideways in opposite directions. Don't pull the ring open sideways, as this easily stretches the round shape and makes the ring harder to close. Close the ring with the same motion in reverse so that the ends meet precisely.

Use pliers with jaws that are as smooth as possible, and hold the ring only as firmly as the work requires. Sharp-edged metal pliers can damage the plating and leave marks, especially on a small, thin ring, so nylon-jawed or otherwise protected pliers are helpful. It's also worth avoiding unnecessary opening and closing. A finished jump ring is at its best when it's opened, attached to the piece, and closed carefully in a single step.

A round ring works well for general-purpose connections, when the part needs to move freely and the connection should stay unobtrusive. An oval ring can be an advantage where the connection is under tension. On an oval ring, the opening sits at the side, so the attached parts don't as easily settle directly over the seam. This increases the durability of the connection, which is why oval rings are often used, for example, to attach pendants and clasps.