Ever since I can remember (long before I started designing jewelry) I have been frustrated by the tiny clasps on jewelry. Seriously, how are we supposed to get these hooked? Especially since they are on the back of our neck. 
I used to move the mechanism to the front and look in a mirror. Not an ideal situation.. and sometimes this does not work. Even having a spouse or significant other that can perform the task is not a great alternative. Is this person always handy when you are getting dressed? Do they have delicate fingers to perform this task? Way too many variables. What happens if you are single (as I was much of my life?) Do you call a neighbor over? or wait to put on your necklace until you get to work? Silly, right?
Once I started designing my own jewelry, I knew that larger, easy to use clasps were essential. Huge toggle clasps, Gigantic lobster clasps and easy to use hook clasps create less stress and make the task of donning jewelry fun again. The styles here are examples of what I use instead. The clasps at the top are the typical smaller lobster clasps you see on most jewelry.
Next time you purchase jewelry, Pay attention to the size of the clasp.
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thanks for your comment Sally. I have one or two gold necklaces (that I purchased years ago) and they still have the tiny clasp. I always have to have someone help me get them on. The larger clasps are SO Nice!
Thank you for giving me permission to use large clasps and toggles. I always make larger sizes but felt that they were out of proportion. I hate the smaller clasps and your are right on – why struggle when you can have bigger and better:O)
I’ve stopped wearing jewelry that has a clasp for that very reason. Alene, this is exactly what sets you up as an artist. Problem with the clasp – redesign and make it beautifully larger. What a great idea. I love the necklace with the clasp in the front.
I love this new trend. It is so frustrating especially with bracelets to try and secure the tiny clasp with one hand. Thank you!
Thanks Kathy. Yes the bracelets are frustrating too. That’s why I design cuffs!
Those tiny clasps can be so annoying! Sometimes I have trouble undoing them and they get caught in my hair. I love the idea of larger a clasp at the front.
Thanks Tami. Yes tiny clasps should be banned from existence😊
I just love the toggle clasps! Not only are they oh-so-much easier to use, but they’re so beautiful as well!
I agree Susan. They are my favorite. I use the others though when the design is conducive to offering a choice of length
I like your idea of making the clasp part of the front design – fabulous! I also love a beautiful clasp in the back – especially with a bit of chain hanging – lovely & feminine!
Love toggle clasps, but also love the kind the slide in and snap (no sure the name). For earrings, love, love, love lever backs. And, I would love the claw clasp if it were big – great idea!
I personally ant to thank you for spreading the word and your work on having larger jewelry clasps. Those tiny other little clasps are the reason for so many frustrations and late arrivals at the dinner party. 🙂
Thanks Teresa. Just doing my part to get you to that dinner party on time😊
Love how you have made the clasp part of the design in your pieces, Alene! My biggest pet peeve is with bracelets…I do not dare take off several of my bracelets unless I know someone will be around to help me put them back on. I also find several of the chains I use to put my pendants on can be challenging to do up at times. I do like the idea of a chain with a toggle closing, although not sure how I would get my pendants on the silver chain. One of my favourite sterling sliver bracelets is designed with the exact toggle closing you show in the upper right of your photo. It gives me options on how loose or tight to make it!
Thanks Beverley. Yes I love those toggle closings with 3 options. Purchased them years ago and only have a few left. I can create from scratch but it’s time consuming and that time is better spent designing with gems
I think Tiffany’s really made the large toggle clasps popular back about 20 years ago. I had several of their silver necklaces with that clasp. I think that definitely drew attention to clasp size for a lot of people – it’s just so much easier.
Thanks Jennifer. I didn’t know that Tiffany’s started the trend. Kudos to them
I think we all have experienced the tiny clasps. Occasionally, I remember to check the type of clasp before purchasing, but not always.
Thanks Rachel it does pay to check the clasp first. The same thing applies to washing instructions for clothing I purchase. None of that ‘hand wash, lay flat’ for me
Hooray, for thinking of us, Alene. I’ve passed up many beautiful pieces because the clasp was too small to manage.There’s always a market for the things that make your life easier.
Thanks Joyce. I agree. Anything that makes our life easier is worth it
Large clasps are a very good idea :-)…I also often have problems with these tiny clasps…
Thanks Katarina. Hooray for large clasps