Lobster Clasps

Ok, I know this is a long shot, but I'm doing a repair and something has happened to the spring inside the lobster clasp and it's not working correctly. I don't really want to purchase another because it's quite a biggun so I was wondering if anyone had any info on how these are made and how I can repair this springumything - before I declare war

These are a bugger to fix, unfortunately, and require extremely good eyesight, very small fingers and about six hands.....

Could you just replace with a hook or similar?

LOL! But I'm a stubborn bugger and it's beating me

I can see it ok, it's just that I can't work out what has happened to this spring - or perhaps because it's been near heat it's not so springy anymore. It looks like the binding wire though, maybe I'll try and make another - I've had it apart and put back together once already. But yeah it's looking like sticking a hook on might be the answer.

Ah. If it's been near heat, then it may way have lost its springiness. They're generally made from spring hard steel (hence the name) which is really very springy. You may be able to borrow one from another clasp, but that's where the six sets of hands come in.....

You could make a sprung tube clasp fairly easily if you want something a bit safer, I nick the springs from old lighters and biros for these

I think you're right, I've nuked the sod - and I don't have another clasp the same size, it's about 1.5cm big. Will see if she'll have a hook'emy'doodah instead...
Why have I never heard of a sprung tube clasp? What's one of them then?

Tinker, I can let you have one of these if it's suitable? https://www.riogrande.com/Product/Sterling-Silver-Figure-Eight-Lobster-Clasp/630369?pos=1

Lesley that looks about perfect, thank you - let me know how much you want for it?

PM me with your address and I'll pop it in the post tomorrow. Seriously, I don't want anything - I got a batch last year and have several left.