Using a clasp as inspiration

Recently I was approached by The Beadsmith to be a participating designer to showcase their new line of "Elegant Elements" clasps.  The idea was that each of us would receive 2 clasps (we even got to pick them out ourselves), and we would design a piece of jewelry around them.  Then they would use them in their promotional materials.  Sounded like a win/win to me!  I picked out 2 and before I knew it, the beautiful clasps arrived (along with a bonus clasp!)

It was harder than I thought it would be. I always try to match the clasp to the jewelry design, most often beading my own.  I have to say this is the first time I created a piece of jewelry around the clasp!!

The first clasp I chose was very simple.  I chose it mainly because of it's size.  It is very substantial and would work well for big cuff bracelets.  So that's what I started with.

First, a picture of the clasp I chose:

I decided I wanted the beading to reflect the swirls in the clasp.  I didn’t want to make something really “girly” since the other clasps I chose were gold with crystals and I figured that would be the direction I would go with those.

So I settled on a red and black color scheme with silver accents- a color combo I rarely use, but is very dramatic.  I added the rhinestone chain for an added sparkle.

 The bead spacing on the swirls was a bit tricky (read trial and error!), but in the end I was happy with the effect.  The only thing left to do was to photograph it.  I needed to have the clasp front and center on the pics- but in that case it was hard to show the rest of the bracelet.  The only solution was to just show only ½ of the clasp.

 So the first piece was done- on to the next one!  This next one is definitely girly!! (next blog)

Here is the site where the pieces created for this “project” are showcased.  Check it out- they are all really amazing!! I am so honored to have been included in this group.

Be Elegant! pieces featuring Elegant Elements clasps