US20180035767A1

US20180035767A1 - Jewelry piece having a slider and connecting means

Info

Publication number: US20180035767A1
Application number: US15/228,850
Authority: US
Inventors: Guy Benhamou
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Circa 1901 Paris Inc; Gold Brands Holdings Inc
Priority date: 2016-08-04
Filing date: 2016-08-04
Publication date: 2018-02-08

Abstract

A jewelry piece comprising a first flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a second flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a third flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a first clasp removably attaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member to the first end of the second flexible elongated member; a second clasp removably attaching the second end of the second flexible elongated member to the first end of the third flexible elongated member; and a slider slidably coupling the first flexible elongated member to the third flexible elongated member.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This presentation relates to jewelry, and in particular to a jewelry piece capable of removably carrying beads.

BACKGROUND

Bead-carrying jewelry, such as necklaces or bracelets, have been known since antiquity. Traditional bead carrying jewelry pieces comprise at least one thread on which one or more beads are threaded. The ends of the at least one thread are traditionally attached together permanently to prevent the one or more beads from falling off.
FIG. 1A schematically represents a known bracelet 10 capable of removably carrying beads 12, on a flexible elongated member 14, for example a chain, having a first end 16 and a second end 18 removably attached by a clasp 20. Clasp 20 can have the shape of a cylinder comprised of two halves symmetrically arranged with respect to a plane containing the rotational axis of the cylinder; the two halves being hingedly coupled and comprising at least one magnet or a spring latch for maintaining the two halves clasped together. The two halves can comprise each an axial cavity arranged to receive a protrusion 15 at the first end 16 of the flexible elongated member 14, such that the first end 16 can be locked to clasp 20 when the two halves are closed on the protrusion 15. Second end 18 can be permanently attached to one of the halves. Opening the clasp 20 allows freeing the first end 16 and threading one or more beads 12 on flexible elongated member 14, or alternatively removing one or more beads 12 already threaded on flexible elongated member 14.
FIG. 1B illustrates the bracelet 10 open, with no bead threaded on elongated member 14.
FIG. 1C illustrates the bracelet 10 closed, with no bead threaded on elongated member 14.
A drawback of the bracelet 10 is that flexible elongated member 14 must have a length adapted to the wrist size of the user of the bracelet. If flexible elongated member 14 is too long, the bracelet 10 can be too loose for the wrist of a given user and if flexible elongated member 14 is too short, the bracelet 10 can be too tight for the wrist of the user. This requires a retailer that sells bracelet 10 to store an assortment of flexible elongated members 14 of different length, so as to cater to most of the potential users. Storing an assortment of flexible elongated members 14 creates a number of inconveniences for the retailer, including the requirement of additional secured storage space, immobilization of investment, etc.
Another drawback of bracelet 10 is due to the fact that the end 18 of elongated member 14 is attached to the clasp 20. The beads 12 can have each a different appearance, and one may want to rearrange the beads, or to introduce a new bead on the bracelet at any given position between the existing beads 12. If one wants to rearrange a bead close to the end 18 of elongated member 14 one must, after opening clasp 20, remove all the beads arranged between said position and the end 16 of member 14 before threading the new bead and then re-threading all the beads previously removed.
FIG. 2 schematically represents a known bracelet 11 that is not capable of removably carrying beads. Bracelet 11 comprises a resilient flexible elongated member 13 having first and second end portions 13′, 13″ slidably coupled by a slider 17. Motion of the slider along the first and second end portions 13′, 13″ allows changing the effective circumference of the bracelet 11, thus allowing most users to wear a single sized bracelet 11.
There exists a need for a jewelry piece such as a bracelet, capable of removably carrying beads and that does not require storage of an assortment of flexible elongated members of different sizes.

SUMMARY

An embodiment of this presentation comprises a jewelry piece having a first flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a second flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a third flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a first clasp removably attaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member to the first end of the second flexible elongated member; a second clasp removably attaching the second end of the second flexible elongated member to the first end of the third flexible elongated member; and a slider slidably coupling the first flexible elongated member to the third flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said first and third flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member are arranged on a same side of the slider.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said first and third flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member are arranged on a different side of the slider.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said slider is arranged to slide along said first flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said slider can be slid along a full length of the first elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said slider is arranged to slide along each of said first and third flexible elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, said slider can be slid along a full length of the first and third elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first clasp is arranged such that opening the first clasp allows detaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member from the first end of the second flexible elongated member and allows passing the first end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member, and the second clasp is arranged such that opening the second clasp allows detaching the second end of the second flexible elongated member from the first end of the third flexible elongated member and allows passing the second end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the jewelry piece comprises at least a bead threaded on the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first, second and third flexible elongated members have each a same structure.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and third flexible elongated members have a same first structure and the second flexible member has a second structure.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and third flexible elongated members have a same length.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second flexible elongated member has a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeters.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second flexible elongated member comprises one of a mesh chain and a snake chain.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first, second and third flexible elongated members are made of precious metal.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and second clasps comprise each a hinged clasp.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, each of the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member comprise a stopper that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member from passing through the slider.
An embodiment of this presentation comprises a jewelry piece having a first flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a second flexible elongated member having first and second ends; a clasp removably attaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member to the first end of the second flexible elongated member; and a slider slidably coupling the first flexible elongated member to the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and second flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member are arranged on a same side of the slider.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and second flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member are arranged on a different side of the slider.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider comprises a friction element that holds the slider to an adjustable position along at least one of said first and second flexible elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider comprises a friction element that holds the slider to an adjustable position along each of said first and second flexible elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the clasp is arranged such that opening the clasp allows detaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member from the first end of the second flexible elongated member and allows passing the first end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the jewelry piece comprises at least a bead threaded on the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, at least one washer element is arranged at an adjustable position along the second flexible elongated member, said at least one washer element preventing the bead from being slid past said at least one washer element along the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider can be slid along a full length of the first elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider can be slid along a portion of the second elongated member starting from the second end of the second flexible elongated member and having the length of the first elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and second flexible elongated members have a same structure.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first flexible elongated member has a first structure and the second flexible elongated member comprises: a first portion, from its first end to a junction point, the first portion having a second structure; and a second portion, from its second end to said junction point, the second portion having said first structure.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the jewelry piece comprises at least a bead threaded on the first portion of the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first flexible elongated member and the second portion of the second flexible elongated member have a same length.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider is capable of sliding along the full length of the first elongated member and the full length of the second portion of the second flexible elongated member.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first portion of the second flexible elongated member has a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeters.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first portion of the second flexible elongated member comprises one of a mesh chain and a snake chain.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and second flexible elongated members are made of precious metal.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the clasp comprises a hinged clasp.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, each of the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member comprise a stopper that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member from passing through the slider.
These and other features and advantages will become further apparent from the detailed description and accompanying figures that follow. In the figures and description, numerals indicate the various features, like numerals referring to like features throughout both the drawings and the description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A schematically represents a known bracelet that is capable of removably carrying beads, having beads threaded on.

FIG. 1B schematically represents the bracelet of FIG. 1A opened and with no beads threaded on.

FIG. 1C schematically represents the bracelet of FIG. 1A closed and with no beads threaded on.

FIG. 2 schematically represents a known bracelet that is not capable of removably carrying beads.

FIG. 3A schematically represents a jewelry piece that is capable of removably carrying beads according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying beads and with its slider tightened.

FIG. 3B schematically represents a jewelry piece that is capable of removably carrying beads according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying beads and with its slider loosened.

FIG. 3C schematically represents a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying beads and having one clasp open.

FIG. 3D schematically represents a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying beads and having an east-west slider.

FIG. 4 schematically represents a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying no beads.

FIG. 5 schematically represents a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying no beads and having alternative clasps.

FIGS. 6A and 6B schematically represent a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, carrying some beads.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to clearly describe various specific embodiments disclosed herein. One skilled in the art, however, will understand that the presently claimed invention may be practiced without all of the specific details discussed below. In other instances, well known features have not been described so as not to obscure the invention.
FIG. 3A schematically represents a jewelry piece 22 capable of removably carrying beads 24 according to an embodiment of this presentation. In the illustrated example, jewelry piece 22 is a wrist bracelet, but it can also be dimensioned to be a necklace or an ankle bracelet or a finger ring. Jewelry piece 22 comprises a first flexible elongated member 26 having a first end 28 and second end 30; a second flexible elongated member 32 having a first end 34 and a second end 36; and a third flexible elongated member 38 having a first end 40 and a second end 36.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, a first clasp 44 removably attaches the second end 30 of the first flexible elongated member 26 to the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32; and a second clasp 46 removably attaches the second end 36 of the second flexible elongated member 32 to the first end 40 of the third flexible elongated member 38. According to an embodiment of this presentation, a slider 48 slidably couples the first flexible elongated member 26 to the third flexible elongated member 38.
As illustrated in FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment of this presentation, the first 26 and third 38 flexible elongated members pass through the slider 48 such that the first end 28 of the first flexible elongated member 26 and the second end 42 of the third flexible elongated member 38 are arranged on a same side of the slider 48. In FIG. 3A, the slider 48 is shown slid close to the second end 30 of first elongated member 26 and close to the first end 40 of third elongated member 38, whereby the circumference of jewelry piece 22 is made small.
FIG. 3B illustrates the jewelry piece 22 of FIG. 3A with slider 48 slid close to the first end 28 of first elongated member 26 and close to the second end 42 of third elongated member 38, whereby the circumference of jewelry piece 22 is made large.
According to an embodiment of this presentation slider 48 comprises a first lumen (not shown) capable of receiving the first flexible elongated member 26 and a second lumen (not shown) capable of receiving the third flexible elongated member 38. Each lumen can comprise a friction element (not shown), such as an O-ring of resilient material maintained in a radial groove of the lumen. The friction elements exert a friction force on the flexible elongated members in the lumens. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the friction force is weak enough to allow a user to slide along the flexible elongated members so that a desired section of the elongated members is maintained in the lumens, and strong enough to hold the desired section of the elongated members in the lumens, thus holding the slider 48 in a desired position along the elongated members when the user does not slide the slider 48 along the flexible elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider 48 can be slid along both flexible elongated members at the same time, or it can be slid along one only of the flexible elongated members.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the slider 48 can alternatively comprise a single lumen (not shown) capable of receiving both the first and third flexible elongated members 26 and 38. The single lumen can comprise a friction element (not shown), such as a ring of resilient material maintained in a radial groove of the lumen and having a function similar to the function of the friction elements previously discussed. Slider 48 is represented in the figures as having a spherical shape, but slider 48 can have any appropriate shape, including a shape having a flattened cross section or a carved shape such as an Ojime bead.
As illustrated in FIG. 3C, according to an embodiment of this presentation, clasp 44 is arranged such that opening the clasp 44 allows detaching the second end 30 of the first flexible elongated member 26 from the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32, and allows passing the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32 through the lumen of a bead 24. The clasp 44 illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3C is in the shape of a cylinder and comprises two halves 44′, 44″ symmetrically arranged with respect to a plane containing the rotational axis of the cylinder; the two halves 44′, 44″ being hingedly coupled by a hinge 43 and comprising at least one magnet or a spring latch 45 for maintaining the two halves 44′, 44″ clasped together. The two halves 44′, 44″ can comprise each an axial cavity 47′ arranged to receive a protrusion 47″ attached to the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32, such that the first end 34 can be locked to clasp 44 when the two halves are closed on the protrusion 47″. The second end 30 of the first elongated member 26 is permanently attached (fixedly or in axial rotation) to one of the halves 44′, 44″(44′ in FIG. 3C).
As outlined above, opening the clasp 44 allows freeing the first end 34 of the second member 32 and threading one or more beads 24 on the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32, or alternatively removing from the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32 one or more beads 24 already threaded on the second flexible elongated member 32.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, clasp 46 can have the same structure as clasp 44, be fixedly attached to the first end 40 of the third elongated member 38 and removably attached to the second end 36 of the second flexible elongated member 32 (by a protrusion not shown); and be arranged such that opening the clasp 46 allows freeing the second end 36 of the second member 32 and threading one or more beads 24 on the second end 36 of the second flexible elongated member 32; or alternatively removing from the second end 36 of the second flexible elongated member 32 one or more beads 24 already threaded on the second flexible elongated member 32.
As illustrated in FIG. 3D, according to an alternative embodiment, the first 26 and third 38 flexible elongated members can pass through a slider 48′ that slidably couples them such that the first end 28 of the first flexible elongated member 26 and the second end 42 of the third flexible elongated member 38 are arranged on opposite sides of the slider 48′ (“east-west” slider). According to a further alternative embodiment that is not illustrated, the east-west slider can be fixedly coupled to the first end 28 of the first 26 flexible elongated member, thus slidably coupling the length of the third elongated member 38; and a further east-west slider can be fixedly coupled to the second end 42 of the third 38 flexible elongated member, so as to slidably couple the length of the first elongated member 26.
FIG. 4 illustrates the jewelry piece 22 with no bead threaded on second member 32. As outlined above, the two clasps 44, 46 of jewelry piece 22 allow threading beads by both ends of the second member 32, thus desirably facilitating the placement of beads at a desired position on second member 32. Further, because positioning the slider 48 along the length of first and third elongated members 26, 38 allows adjusting the circumference of the jewelry piece 22, a single-sized jewelry piece 22 can be adjusted to the wrist of most users. The ability to use a single sized jewelry piece 22 advantageously allows avoiding storage of an assortment of flexible elongated members of different sizes.
FIG. 5 illustrates a jewelry piece according to an embodiment of this presentation, essentially identical to the jewelry piece 22 but with clasps 44 and 46 being lobster clasps. The lobster clasp 44 can be attached to the second end 30 of the first flexible elongated member 26, which clasps on a receiving ring attached to the first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32. Preferably, the outer diameter of the receiving ring is smaller or equal to the diameter of first end 34 of the second flexible elongated member 32, so as to facilitate threading a bead 24 on the second flexible elongated member 32 by its first end 34. The lobster clasp 46 is arranged consistently to allow threading a bead 24 on the second flexible elongated member 32 by its second end 36.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the beads 24 capable of being removably carried by jewelry piece 22 comprise each a lumen (not shown) having a diameter sufficiently large to allow threading bead 24 on the second flexible elongated member 32 by its first or second ends 34, 36. According to an embodiment of this presentation, a bead 24 can comprise in its lumen a friction element (not shown) that holds the bead to an adjustable position along the second flexible elongated member 32. Such a friction element can be a resilient O-ring maintained in a radial groove of the lumen.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the outer diameter of the receiving rings of the clasps 44, 46 is small enough to pass through the lumen of the beads 24. According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated, miniature lobster clasps capable of passing through the lumen of the beads 24 can alternatively be attached to the ends of the flexible elongated member 32.
According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated each of clasps 44, 46 can alternatively comprise a first cylindrical portion attached to an end of the first or third elongated members 26, 38 and a second cylindrical portion attached to an end of the second elongated member 32, where the first cylindrical portion comprises an axial protrusion provided for locking into a corresponding recess in the second cylindrical portion. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the axial protrusion can comprise a male threading and can lock into a female threading in the corresponding recess in second cylindrical portion. According to an embodiment of this presentation, axial protrusion can also be magnetic and magnetically lock into the corresponding recess in the second cylindrical portion. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the diameter of the second cylindrical portion is such that it can pass through the lumen of the beads 24. The first and second cylindrical portions can be cylindrical or they can have any suitable shape; for example conical shapes, or hemispherical shapes.
According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated, each of clasps 44, 46 can alternatively comprise a spring ring clasp that comprises a spring ring portion, attached to an end of the first or third elongated members 26, 38, and a ring portion attached to an end of the second elongated member 32, where spring ring portion is provided for clasping the ring portion. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the diameter of the ring portion is such that it can pass through the lumen of the beads 24.
According to an embodiment of this presentation the slider 48 can be slid along a full length of the first and third elongated members 26, 38. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the flexible elongated members 26, 32 and 38 have a same diameter and a same structure, for example mesh chain or snake chain, for example in a precious metal such as gold or silver, the diameter being comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeter; preferably between 2 and 4 millimeter, and preferably of 3 millimeter. The clasps and slider can also be made of precious metal.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second elongated member 32 can comprise a solid chain such as a snake chain or a hollow chain such as a mesh chain. End pieces such as cylindrical caps can be welded to the ends of the elongated members for ease of connection to the clasps.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second elongated member 32 can have a length between 8 and 20 cm; preferably between 10 and 18 cm, preferably between 12 and 16 cm, and preferably 13 cm. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first and third elongated members 26, 38 can have a length between 3 and 8 cm; preferably between 4 and 7 cm; and preferably 5 cm.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, each of the first end 28 of the first flexible elongated member 26 and the second end 42 of the third flexible elongated member 38 comprise a stopper 49 that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member from passing through the slider 48.
FIG. 6A schematically represents a jewelry piece 22′ capable of removably carrying beads 24 according to an embodiment of this presentation. As jewelry piece 22, jewelry piece 22′ is described as a wrist bracelet, but it can also be dimensioned to be a necklace or an ankle bracelet or a finger ring. Jewelry piece 22′ comprises a first flexible elongated member 60 having a first end 62 and a second end 64; and a second flexible elongated member 66 having a first end 68 and a second end 70. According to an embodiment of this presentation, a clasp 72 removably attaches the second end 64 of the first flexible elongated member 60 to the first end 68 of the second flexible elongated member 66. According to an embodiment of this presentation, a slider 74 slidably couples the first flexible elongated member 60 to the second flexible elongated member 66.
As illustrated in FIG. 6A, according to an embodiment of this presentation, the first 60 and second 66 flexible elongated members pass through the slider 74 such that the first end 62 of the first flexible elongated member 60 and the second end 70 of the second flexible elongated member 66 are arranged on a same side of the slider 74.
According to an alternative embodiment that is not illustrated, the first 60 and second 66 flexible elongated members can pass through the slider 74 such that the first end 62 of the first flexible elongated member 60 and the second end 70 of the second flexible elongated member are arranged on opposite sides of the slider 74 (“east-west” slider). According to a further embodiment that is not illustrated, the east-west slider 74 can be fixedly coupled to the first end 62 of the first flexible elongated member 60, thus slidably coupling the length of the second flexible elongated member 66; and a further east-west slider can be fixedly coupled to the second end 70 of the second flexible elongated member 66, so as to slidably couple the length of the first elongated member 60.
The slider 74 and clasp 72 are essentially identical to the slider 40 and the claps 44 or 46 detailed previously. Thus, opening clasp 72 allows threading beads 24 on, or removing beads 24 from, second elongated member 66 by its first end 68. Further, slidably positioning the slider 74 along the length of the first elongated member 60, and for example along a corresponding length of second elongated member 66, allows adjusting the effective circumference of jewelry piece 22′.
FIG. 6A illustrates slider 74 slid close to the first end 62 of first elongated member 60 and the second end of the 70 of the second elongated member 66, thus enlarging the effective circumference of jewelry piece 22′. First elongated member 60 and second elongated member 66, as well as the clasp and slider can be made of precious metal, such as gold, silver or electrum.
FIG. 6B illustrates slider 74 slid away from the first end 62 of first elongated member 60 and the second end of the 70 of the second elongated member 66, thus narrowing the effective circumference of jewelry piece 22′.
As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, at least one washer element 76 can be arranged at an adjustable position along the second flexible elongated member 66; the washer element 76 preventing the beads 24 from being slid past it along the second flexible elongated member 66. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the washer element 76 can be an O-ring in a clear or colored resilient material, which has an inner diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of elongated member 66 where the beads are to be threaded.
According to an embodiment of this presentation the slider 74 can be slid along a full length of the first elongated member 60. According to an embodiment of this presentation the slider 60 can be slid along a portion of the second elongated member 66 that extends from the second end 70 of the second flexible elongated member and has the length of the first elongated member 60. The washer element 76 can for example be positioned on the second elongated member 66 at a distance from the second end 70 equal to the length of the first elongated member 60.
According to another embodiment of this presentation, the slider 74 can be slid along a portion of the second elongated member 66 that extends from the second end 70 of the second elongated member and has a length different from the length of the first elongated member 60.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the first flexible elongated member 60 has a first structure, and can for example comprise anchor chain, or for example any structure that can be bent freely without exerting a resistance force. The first flexible elongated member 60 can have a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeter; preferably between 2 and 4 millimeter, and preferably of 3 millimeter.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second flexible elongated member 66 comprises a first portion 78 that extends from first end 70 to a junction point, for example positioned on the second elongated member 66 at a distance from the second end 70 equal to the length of the first elongated member 60, and a second portion 80 that extends from second end 68 to the junction point.
According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated, the first portion 78 of the second flexible elongated member 66 has the same structure and diameter as the first flexible elongated member 60 and the second portion 80 of the second flexible elongated member 66 has a structure different from the structure of the first flexible elongated member 60. Second portion 80 can also have a diameter different from the diameter of the first flexible elongated member 60 and first portion 78. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the second portion 80 can comprise mesh chain or snake chain, and have a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeter; preferably between 2 and 4 millimeter, and preferably of 3 millimeter
According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated, portion 80 can comprise a hollow structure (such as a mesh chain or a snake chain), with end pieces such as cylindrical caps welded to the ends of the hollow structure. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the diameter of the portion 80 can be larger than the diameter of first flexible elongated member 60 and first portion 78. According to an embodiment of this presentation, the beads 24 are threaded or positioned on the portion 80 of the second flexible elongated member 66.
According to an embodiment of this presentation that is not illustrated, portion 80 can comprise a stopper that cannot be passed by the beads, for example at the junction point.
According to an embodiment of this presentation and as illustrated in FIGS. 6A, 6B, the flexible elongated member 66 can also have the same structure and/or diameter as the first flexible elongated member 60.
As for jewelry piece 22, the slider permits to adjust the circumference of a single sized jewelry piece 22′ to the wrist of most users. The ability to use a single sized jewelry piece 22′ advantageously allows avoiding storage of an assortment of flexible elongated members of different sizes.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, portion 80 can have a length between 8 and 20 cm; preferably between 10 and 18 cm, preferably between 12 and 16 cm, and preferably 13 cm. According to an embodiment of this presentation, portion 78 (and member 60) can have a length between 3 and 8 cm; preferably between 4 and 7 cm; and preferably 5 cm.
According to an embodiment of this presentation, each of the first end 62 of the first flexible elongated member 60 and the second end 70 of the second flexible elongated member 66 comprise a stopper 82 that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member from passing through the slider 74.
Having now described the invention in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in this art will understand how to make changes and modifications to the present invention to meet their specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed herein.
The foregoing Detailed Description of exemplary and preferred embodiments is presented for purposes of illustration and disclosure in accordance with the requirements of the law. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the invention to the precise form(s) described, but only to enable others skilled in the art to understand how the invention may be suited for a particular use or implementation. The possibility of modifications and variations will be apparent to practitioners skilled in the art.
No limitation is intended by the description of exemplary embodiments which may have included tolerances, feature dimensions, specific operating conditions, engineering specifications, or the like, and which may vary between implementations or with changes to the state of the art, and no limitation should be implied therefrom. Applicant has made this disclosure with respect to the current state of the art, but also contemplates advancements and that adaptations in the future may take into consideration of those advancements, namely in accordance with the then current state of the art. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the Claims as written and equivalents as applicable. Reference to a claim element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated. Moreover, no element, component, nor method or process step in this disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or step is explicitly recited in the Claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. Sec. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for . . . ” and no method or process step herein is to be construed under those provisions unless the step, or steps, are expressly recited using the phrase “comprising the step(s) of . . . .”

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A jewelry piece comprising:

a first flexible elongated member having first and second ends;

a second flexible elongated member having first and second ends;

a third flexible elongated member having first and second ends;

a first clasp removably attaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member to the first end of the second flexible elongated member;

a second clasp removably attaching the second end of the second flexible elongated member to the first end of the third flexible elongated member; and

a slider slidably coupling the first flexible elongated member to the third flexible elongated member.

2. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein said first and third flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member are arranged on a same side of the slider.

3. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein said first and third flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member are arranged on a different side of the slider.

4. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein said slider is arranged to slide along said first flexible elongated member.

5. The jewelry piece of claim 4, wherein said slider can be slid along a full length of the first elongated member.

6. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein said slider is arranged to slide along each of said first and third flexible elongated members.

7. The jewelry piece of claim 6, wherein said slider can be slid along a full length of the first and third elongated members.

8. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the first clasp is arranged such that opening the first clasp allows detaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member from the first end of the second flexible elongated member and allows passing the first end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member, and wherein the second clasp is arranged such that opening the second clasp allows detaching the second end of the second flexible elongated member from the first end of the third flexible elongated member and allows passing the second end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member.

9. The jewelry piece of claim 8, comprising at least a bead threaded on the second flexible elongated member.

10. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the first, second and third flexible elongated members have each a same structure.

11. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the first and third flexible elongated members have a same first structure and the second flexible member has a second structure.

12. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein said first and third flexible elongated members have a same length.

13. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the second flexible elongated member has a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeters.

14. The jewelry piece of claim 11, wherein the second flexible elongated member comprises one of a mesh chain and a snake chain.

15. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the first, second and third flexible elongated members are made of precious metal.

16. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein the first and second clasps comprise each a hinged clasp.

17. The jewelry piece of claim 1, wherein each of the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member comprise a stopper that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the third flexible elongated member from passing through the slider.

18. A jewelry piece comprising:

a first flexible elongated member having first and second ends;

a second flexible elongated member having first and second ends;

a clasp removably attaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member to the first end of the second flexible elongated member; and

a slider slidably coupling the first flexible elongated member to the second flexible elongated member.

19. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein said first and second flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member are arranged on a same side of the slider.

20. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein said first and second flexible elongated members pass through said slider such that the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member are arranged on a different side of the slider.

21. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein said slider comprises a friction element that holds the slider to an adjustable position along at least one of said first and second flexible elongated members.

22. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein said slider comprises a friction element that holds the slider to an adjustable position along each of said first and second flexible elongated members.

23. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein the clasp is arranged such that opening the clasp allows detaching the second end of the first flexible elongated member from the first end of the second flexible elongated member and allows passing the first end of the second flexible elongated member through the lumen of a bead provided for being threaded on the second flexible elongated member.

24. The jewelry piece of claim 23, comprising at least a bead threaded on the second flexible elongated member.

25. The jewelry piece of claim 24, wherein at least one washer element is arranged at an adjustable position along the second flexible elongated member, said at least one washer element preventing the bead from being slid past said at least one washer element along the second flexible elongated member.

26. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein said slider can be slid along a full length of the first elongated member.

27. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein the slider can be slid along a portion of the second elongated member starting from the second end of the second flexible elongated member and having the length of the first elongated member.

28. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein the first and second flexible elongated members have a same structure.

29. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein the first flexible elongated member has a first structure and wherein the second flexible elongated member comprises:

a first portion, from its first end to a junction point, the first portion having a second structure; and

a second portion, from its second end to said junction point, the second portion having said first structure.

30. The jewelry piece of claim 29, comprising at least a bead threaded on the first portion of the second flexible elongated member.

31. The jewelry piece of claim 29, wherein said first flexible elongated member and said second portion of said second flexible elongated member have a same length.

32. The jewelry piece of claim 29, wherein the slider is capable of sliding along the full length of the first elongated member and the full length of the second portion of the second flexible elongated member.

33. The jewelry piece of claim 29, wherein the first portion of the second flexible elongated member has a diameter comprised between 1.5 and 5 millimeters.

34. The jewelry piece of claim 29, wherein the first portion of the second flexible elongated member comprises one of a mesh chain and a snake chain.

35. The jewelry piece of claim 29, wherein the first and second flexible elongated members are made of precious metal.

36. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein the clasp comprises a hinged clasp.

37. The jewelry piece of claim 18, wherein each of the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member comprise a stopper that prevents the first end of the first flexible elongated member and the second end of the second flexible elongated member from passing through the slider.