End caps are used to finish bead or stone jewelry pieces
A bead cap is a type of jewelry finding used, most often, in finishing a stranded-type (bead or stone) bracelet or necklace. The purpose of the cap is to secure the end of a strand of beads or stones neatly, and to avoid or hide messy knots. Although a jewelry clasp is actually a type of end cap, a separate cap may also be used in addition to the clasp, depending on the style of the piece. End caps are available in a wide variety of sizes, metal types, and compositions.
Types of Metal Used in End Caps
End caps are available in plated or genuine silver and gold as well as copper, brass, pewter and bronze. The style and type of metal used for a given jewelry piece usually matches or blends well with other colors in the piece. For instance, if the necklace includes sterling silver beads, the end cap is most likely sterling silver as well.
Glue Type End Caps
A glue type end cap is tubular in shape, with a closed end. Often, there is a ring attached to the closed end that is used as part of the fastening clip. To use this type of end cap, string the necklace as desired, secure the end with a knot, and glue the end bead or stone inside the cap, using hot glue or jewelry glue.
Pinch Type End Caps
A pinch type end cap is most often cone-shaped with two side pieces, and made of a pliable metal. The end of the bead strand is threaded through the cap. The two sides are then pinched together, using a small jewelry pliers, to secure the fastening.
Ball Type End Caps
A ball type end cap is most often used when stranding jewelry on wire, or when using tiger tail. The end of the wire is threaded through a ball. The ball is caught inside the end cap and glued, soldered, or pinched in place. The tail of the wire is then clipped very close to the cap to secure the strand.
Cone Type End Caps
Cone-shaped end caps are often used to finish a necklace or bracelet that is made from multiple beaded strands. The cone at the end is used to bring the strands together and conceal the end knot. A cone-shaped end cap is usually used in addition to a clasp. The bead strands are threaded through the cone, around a clasp loop, and back through the cone. They are then tied together so that the knot is secured (and hidden) inside the cone.
Sizes of End Caps
Generally, the size end cap needed to complete a piece of stranded jewelry will be the same size as the beads or stones being used in the piece. If you're using a glue type cap, you will need to be sure that the beads you are using will fit inside the cap.
Other Design Uses for an End Cap
Aside from its uses as a clasp or in finishing a beaded jewelry piece, an end cap may also be used to transition a jewelry design. An end cap may be used to attach a beaded strand to a length of chain, to attach several strands of beads to a single strand, or to attach a pendant or charm.
