paperclips

A paperclip is a small loop of wire bent into a shape that secures sheets of paper without tearing or permanent alteration. The most familiar form is the double-oval gem design, consisting of two adjacent rounded arches that grip papers by friction. Other designs exist, including elongated S- or C-shaped clips and those with wider gaps for thicker stacks.

Most modern paperclips are made of steel wire and coated or plated to resist corrosion. Common finishes include zinc-plated steel and stainless steel; black oxide or colored plastic coatings are also used. Clip sizes vary, with typical lengths ranging from about 20 to 40 millimeters and wire gauges around 0.5 to 0.9 millimeters.

The origin of the modern paperclip design is the subject of attribution, often linked to Johan Vaaler of Norway who obtained patents in the late 19th century; however, similar clips had appeared earlier in various countries. The term paperclip predates standardized patents, and multiple manufacturers contributed to the widespread adoption of the device in the early 20th century. The Gem paperclip, a specific design, became a common commercial variant.

In ordinary use, a paperclip holds sheets together by bending lightly around the papers; its grip increases with the number of sheets up to the clip's capacity. Beyond paper, it can function as an improvised hook, bookmark, or reset tool; it is recyclable as scrap metal, and bulk manufacturing emphasizes steel for cost and durability.