What is the difference between a Finding and a Component?

[janice]

Many bead sellers and authors use Findings and/or Components interchangeably when referring to everything from clasps to coins. There are times when a component is not a finding. What is the difference?

“Findings” seems like a funny word, but it has a long history in the jewelry trade. The dictionary states it is a “small article or tool used in making garments, shoes or jewelry.” The important word is making. It is called a finding if it is essential to making your jewelry function. A clasp is a device that makes a strand of beads open and close so it can worn as a necklace. An ear wire turns a dangle into an earring when the two are attached. So, both clasps and ear wires are definitely findings.

Ready to get confused? The dictionary defines “Component” as “constituting part of a larger whole.” A clasp is a part of the larger whole BUT didn’t we just say it’s a Finding? It’s actually both! However, not all components are findings. Charms, pendants and coins are components but they don’t have a job to do, like the clasp does. They are design elements which fall under the umbrella of component.

Think of Components as all the parts of a dress- the fabric, the thread, the zipper and the belt. The zipper, the buckle on the belt and the metal rivets for the belt buckle are the findings; the rest are not. Within the components category you have findings, but not all components are findings! I hope this helps :-)
janice

[Rowena Cherry]

Interesting! Who knew!!! I'm learning - thank you :)