Some of the attributes of the modern paper clip stated by early paper clip manufacturers are as follows:
1. Does not catch, mutilate or tear paper
2. Does not get tangled with other paper clips in the box
3. Holds a thick set of papers
4. Holds paper securely
5. Is thinner and takes less space in files
6. Is easily inserted
7. Is light weight and requires less postage
8. Is cheap

All this tantalizing information is readily available. Just check out the online Early Office Museum. In fact, if one is to research further you will find there is a dark side to the paper clip. Apparently the paper clip can be bent into a crude but sometimes effective lock-picking device. Good grief! Not to worry, all the paper clips at Paper-Ya are good and honest paper clips.