Often used interchangeably, these two words have very different meanings.

Findings are the hooks, clasps, latches, jump rings, button shanks, posts, bezels, blanks, and other utilitarian things that allow jewelry to function. They are always functional, sometimes decorative, and hopefully part of the overall aesthetic.

Components are the decorative parts of costume jewelry. This might include charms, dangles, spacer beads, metal accents, crystals, tags, or even beads. These are the component structures that make up the jewelry itself.

There is, of course, a lot of overlap between these terms. You can create a clasp that is integral to the function and the piece’s design. It’s common for earring posts to be a decorative component that is also a functional finding.

While there is a difference between the two, there is so much overlap, and it’s so easy to confuse the two that I made a mistake in this photo, and I have a finding in the components. Can you see it? Tell me in the comments!

#polymerclay #polymerclayjewelry #jewelrymaker