Interchangeable Jewelry Bail and Clasp System

Abstract

A transferable jewelry clasp for interchangeable jewelry designs and styles includes a series of clasp mechanisms, attachment means, and a multi-purpose pin system. Together, the transferable clasp allows for efficient changing of jewelry styles, which creates many options for the wearer and gives the wearer an inexpensive, versatile, and flexible jewelry wardrobe.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to jewelry bails and clasps more particularly to a transferable jewelry bails and clasps to allow for limitless interchangeable jewelry-making options, by making it possible for most focal pieces to be easily transformed into pendants or be used as a clasp by taking two ends of any chain and connecting them together and taking the same bail and clasp using it over and over again without the use of metalsmithing or soldering equipment, putting on a jump ring or utilizing gluing techniques.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Jewelry bails and clasps are generally meant as functional components used to connect pendants, or other decorative ornaments, to a chain. The bails and/or clasps are meant to slide onto the chain rather than to be soldered to it. Some bails and clasps are there for function only, with a subdued appearance that keeps them from overpowering the jewelry. Other bails and clasps are bold and are an important part of the jewelry's overall design.

Some genres of bails and clasps are more secure than others and some are more difficult to open and close without help from another person.

Typically, jewelry items are distinct to a single type of jewelry and a single style. For example, a bracelet with gold charms may be bought with a single clasp and therefore there is only one way to wear the specific bracelet and one specific style for the bracelet. For a complete jewelry collection and wardrobe to match all outfits, a user is required to purchase different bracelets to suit her style.

Further, jewelry tends to have one specific look and design. A round gold necklace is exactly that, a round single clasp necklace that typically has a specific pendant to accompany it. Also, that round gold necklace can typically only be worn with a specific outfit and is unable to cross over to different styles.

Although there are a large variety of jewelry designs, most include some sort of a central ornamental piece, such as a gemstone, disposed in a setting, possibly including another aesthetic design element (e.g. engraving, finish, etc.). In most cases, the setting, including the gemstone or whatever other ornamental element is included with or on the setting are fashioned in such a way that they form a single unchangeable piece. In other words, ornamental element is permanently attached to the setting and the setting, in turn, is permanently attached to the rest of the jewelry piece. This can be very limiting to styles and requires jewelry wearers to purchase excessive amounts of unchangeable pieces.

For some, accessorizing outfits with jewelry is extremely important and vital to bring together certain ensembles. For others, jewelry is a means in showing status or value: the more glamorous a piece, the more expensive it may be. Others individuals might just love jewelry and unique pieces. No matter what the reason an individual decides to own jewelry, it has become increasingly more expensive over the years. Consumers are always looking for a better way to get the most bang for their buck while still collecting enough jewelry pieces to compliment any outfit.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The instant series of system and apparatuses, as illustrated herein, are clearly not anticipated, rendered obvious, or even present in any of the prior art mechanisms, either alone or in any combination thereof. The instant versatile systems (which combine elegant appearance and superior performance, in conjunction with secure connection capability for ease in locking) and series of devices introduce a jewelry bail and clasp for interchangeable jewelry designs clearly surpassing what's available in the marketplace. Jewelry bails and clasps are more than just functional components used to securely connect two ends of a necklace or other piece of jewelry and other elements and components to each other.

Some types of clasps and bails are more secure than others and some are more difficult to open and close without assistance from another person. The instant system is easy to open and close, in the same manner as necklaces and bracelets. Thus, the several embodiments of the instant system are illustrated herein.

In one aspect, the present apparatus introduces a jewelry bails and clasp that creates interchangeable jewelry styles. In an additional embodiment, the present system introduces a jewelry bail and clasp that functions as part of the decorative jewelry piece, instead of just a means for attaching the separate ends of a chain or serving as a bail to hang a pendent from a chain.

In an additional aspect, the present apparatus introduces a jewelry piece that may be interchangeable and used by different chains or bands of jewelry.

In an additional aspect, the present device introduces a jewelry clasp and bail that secures the jewelry piece to the user securely. Further, the jewelry clasp is easy to use and elegant. In another aspect, the jewelry clasp is inexpensive and provides interchangeable options for endless styles and designs.

In one aspect, the present device introduces a jewelry clasp that is transferable for different neck chains or bands. In one embodiment, the jewelry system may include a transferable jewelry clasp, as well as, an eyelet hinge to complete the piece of jewelry and create interchangeable designs.

Realizing one aspect of the apparatus is a jewelry clasp and bail device system, which provides interchangeable jewelry designs, wherein the jewelry clasp and bail is transferable to different jewelry chains or bands, and provides an inexpensive, easy, effective, and elegant means for creating multiple jewelry styles with a single piece of jewelry.

In addition, the instant system affords an ordinary person the ability to become their own jewelry designers, including taking their own heirloom or broken pieces and turning them into beautiful pieces of art without any prior knowledge of jewelry making.

These together with other objects of the system and apparatus, along with the various features of novelty, which characterize the system and apparatus, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the system, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated several embodiments of the system.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be practiced and all aspects and equivalents thereof are intended to be within the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a transferable jewelry clasp and bail fully assembled;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp and bail system, wherein the transferable jewelry clasp's parts are separated;

FIG. 1C illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp, wherein the transferable jewelry clap's parts are further separated;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a transferable jewelry clasp fully assembled;

FIG. 2B illustrates a top perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp, wherein a latch arm is displayed;

FIG. 2C illustrates a side view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp, wherein the latch arm is engaged with a latch arm clasp;

FIGS. 2D-2G illustrates additional embodiments of the transferable jewelry clasp;

FIG. 2H illustrates an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp with an additional attachment means;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp;

FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a multi-purpose mating jewelry hoop;

FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of one embodiment of the receiving hoop;

FIG. 4C illustrates a front view of one embodiment of the receiving hoop further illustrating the receiving apertures;

FIG. 4D illustrates a side view of the receiving hoop further identifying an embodiment with three (3) mating and retaining pins visible.

FIG. 4E illustrates a front view of the receiving hoop further illustrating a set of larger, more decorative receiving apertures.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry bail and clasp system utilizing a centralized, single pin configuration and at least one bejeweled side.

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry bail and clasp system utilizing a centralized, single pin configuration.

FIG. 5C illustrates a front view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry bail and clasp system utilizing a centralized, single pin configuration.

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein alphabetical or numerical expressions and pins may be utilized.

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein geometric shapes and pins may be utilized.

FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein geometric shapes and pins may be utilized, with the addition of rotational decorative elements.

FIG. 7A illustrates a front view of a further embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL EMBODIMENTS

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of presently exemplary embodiments of the apparatus and does not represent the only forms in which the present apparatus may be constructed and/or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the apparatus in connection with the illustrated embodiments. However, it is to be understood that the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention.

A transferable jewelry clasp that allows for interchangeable jewelry designs and styles is introduced below. Herein, in certain embodiments, the transferable jewelry clasp comprises an upper part or portion and lower part portion which are in communication with one another by use of at least one latch arm or in a pivotal manner by means of a hinge pin. In some embodiments, one latch arm may be attached to the upper part of the jewelry clasp and one latch arm may be attached to the lower part. In another embodiment, at least one snap clasp is attached diametrically opposed to the hinge pin, which may be in communication with a latch arm. In preferred embodiments, the transferable jewelry clasp may be attached to a multi-purpose pin. The multipurpose pin in accordance with preferred embodiments includes an oval or circular hoop and a backing which attaches to the circular hoop by suitable fastening means such as by fastening pins.

Referring now to the figures to illustrate an embodiment, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the jewelry clasp 10. FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the jewelry clasp, wherein the jewelry clasp comprises a left part 12a and a right part 12b. The left part 12a and the right part 12b of the jewelry clasp 10 are in communication with each other by use of an attachment pin 14 as indicated in FIG. 1C.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate additional embodiments of a transferable jewelry clasp. Herein, FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a transferable jewelry clasp fully assembled 20. FIG. 2B illustrates a top perspective view of the transferable jewelry clasp, wherein a latch arm 22 is displayed that may be in communication with a latch arm clasp 24. FIG. 2C illustrates a side view of the transferable jewelry clasp, wherein the latch arm 22 is engaged with the latch arm clasp 24. As shown, the transferable jewelry clasp comprises of two opposing arms 28a, 28b in communication with each other by a pin hinge 26. The opposing arms comprise a first arm 28a which comprises of the latch arm clasp 24 and a second arm 28b that further comprises the latch arm 22. The pin hinge 26 allows for the first arm 28a and the second arm 28b to pivotally move for attachment purposes. In certain embodiments, the shape, or number of latch arms may vary and the transferable jewelry clasp may vary in size, shape, color, and design.

FIGS. 2D-2G illustrate several embodiments of the transferable jewelry clasp. Further, FIG. 2H illustrates another embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp 21 with an additional looped attachment means 25 or eyelet mechanism 25. The varying transferable jewelry clasps allows for numerous styles and designs of jewelry pieces and contributes to interchangeable styles of jewelry pieces.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp 30. With this embodiment, the transferable jewelry clasp comprises 3 pin mechanisms 32a, 32b, 32c. In other embodiments, the transferable jewelry clasp may have varying number of pin mechanisms, or pins. Different styles may comprises two, three, four, five, or more pin mechanisms. As above, the transferable jewelry clasp is not limited as to shape, number of pin mechanisms or size of pin mechanisms. An increase in the number of pin mechanisms serves to allow for greater iterations of interchangeable jewelry designs and styles.

FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate a set of matching elements of the jewelry bail and clasp system, namely a set of circular members. FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a multi-purpose mating jewelry hoop 40. In one embodiment, the multi-purpose mating jewelry hoop system 40 which may comprise a receiving hoop 42 and an engaging hoop 44, which attaches to the receiving hoop 42 by suitable fastening means such as by mating and retaining pins 46A, 46B, 46C. In the instant embodiment, the receiving hoop 42 comprises an annular configuration with a suitable outer diameter for receiving accessories.

FIGS. 4B and 4C further illustrate the receiving hoop 42 as illustrated in FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of the receiving hoop 42 and FIG. 4C illustrates a front view of the receiving hoop 42 further illustrating the receiving apertures 48. In the instant embodiment, five (5) receiving apertures 48 are illustrated.

FIGS. 4D and 4E illustrate an additional embodiment of the receiving and engaging hoop. FIG. 4D illustrates a side view of the engaging hoop 45, further identifying an embodiment with three (3) mating and retaining pins 45A, 45B, 45C visible. FIG. 4E illustrates a front view of the receiving hoop 47 further illustrating a series of larger, more decorative receiving apertures 49. In the instant embodiment, twelve (12) receiving apertures 49 are illustrated.

In one embodiment, the configuration of the receiving hoop 42, 47 may include an inner diameter ranging from 1.0 inch to 8.0 inches and an outer diameter ranging from 2.00 inch to 14.0 inches. Numerous sizes of diameters may be utilized, however, these different size configurations in no way depart from the principles of the present concept. As above, the transferable jewelry clasp is not limited as to shape, number of pin mechanisms or size of pin mechanisms. An increase in the number of pin mechanisms serves to allow for greater iterations of interchangeable jewelry designs and styles.

Referring further to FIG. 4A-4E, in different embodiments, the respective hoops 42, 44, 45, 47 should possess a width of sufficient dimension to stably support jewelry accessories, while at the same time being light enough to be worn comfortably. In an exemplary embodiment, the hoop 42, 44, 45, 47 may have a width ranging from 0.9 inch to 14.1 inches.

The embodiments shown herein are in no way limited the system including an oval or a circular configuration for the hoop mechanism. For example, a parallelogram configuration, such as a rectangular or square design, may be used for the shape of the hoop.

Herein, as further illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4D respectively, the suitable fastening means such as pins 46A, 46B, 46C and 45A, 45B, 45C may include, but are not limited to, three pin mechanisms but in other embodiment may comprise varying numbers of pin mechanisms or other suitable fastening means. The placement of the pins and the holes are not limited to embodiments in the figures nor which side of the clasp the pins or the holes will be placed.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5C, further embodiments of the transferable jewelry clasp 50 are shown. In these embodiments, at least one pin mechanism 52 is used. In other embodiments, the transferable jewelry clasp may have varying number of pin mechanisms. Different styles may comprises two, three, four, five, or more pin mechanisms. As above, the transferable jewelry clasp is not limited to shape and size of the pin mechanisms. The number of pin mechanisms allows for interchangeable jewelry designs and styles.

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp utilizing a centralized, single pin 52 configuration and at least one bejeweled side. FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp utilizing a centralized, single pin 52 configuration. FIG. 5C illustrates a front view of an additional embodiment of the transferable jewelry clasp utilizing a centralized, single pin 52 configuration.

FIG. 6A illustrates a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein alphabet letters may be utilized. Specifically here, the attachable member includes a letter “S” configuration 60 and further illustrates the individual prongs 61, two (2) prongs 61 are present in this configuration. These and other configurations may be used without departing from the principles of the present invention.

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein geometric shapes and pins may be utilized. In the instant embodiment, the geometric shape a triangle 62 is illustrated, in this embodiment, the triangle 62 utilizes three prongs 63.

FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of alternative designs of the transferable jewelry clasp and charm concept wherein geometric shapes and pins may be utilized, with the addition of rotational decorative elements. In the instant embodiment, the geometric shape a cylinder 64 is illustrated and in this embodiment, the cylinder 64 may also include a decorative rotational device 65 and a set of retaining pins 66, in this case two pins 66.

In additional embodiments, a multi-member interchangeable jewelry system is featured. FIG. 7A illustrates a front view of a further embodiment of the multi-member interchangeable jewelry clasp, bail and charm system wherein three separate jewelry pieces are interwoven to create a distinctive three facet jewelry piece 70. In the instant embodiment shown is an ornamental hoop 71, and additional larger ornamental bejeweled hoop 72, joined by a bejeweled clasp mechanism. FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of the multi-member interchangeable jewelry system again illustrating the distinctive tri-member jewelry piece 70. Further illustrated is the ornamental hoop 71, the larger ornamental hoop 72 and the bejeweled clasp mechanism 73. Again the embodiments illustrated are in no manner limited to any specific color shape and size of jewels, pins or the clasp.

In one embodiment, as illustrated herein, the multi-member jewelry system may include an upper member, a central member and a lower member wherein the upper member and the central member are in sliding communication and wherein the central member and the lower member are in sliding communication. Also, the upper member may include a static hoop, the central member may include a dynamic clasp hoop and the lower member may include a static hoop. However, any number of members may be utilized and in any combination, thus as many as 20 or more members may be utilized.

Thus the combining of pieces defines an interchangeable jewelry system wherein each item may be combined with a clasp, or clasps to become an interchangeable (building block-like) system by taking any stone, chain, or pendant and building ever changing unique pieces.

In certain other embodiments, the transferable jewelry clasps or multi-purpose pins may be formed of a single sheet of suitable material such as metal, plastic, or any combination thereof. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the disclosure described herein may be employed in practicing the disclosure. Elements of an implementation of the systems and methods described herein may be independently implemented or combined with other implementations. It is intended that the claims to follow with the utility application define the scope of the disclosure and that systems, methods, and devices within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

1. A transferable jewelry clasp for interchangeable jewelry styles and designs comprising: a left part of the jewelry clasp;a right part of the jewelry clasp, wherein the left and right part of the jewelry clasp are in communication with each other by use of at least one attachment pin;at least one multi-purpose pin comprising: a hoop; and,a backing, wherein the backing is attached to the hoop by at least one fastening pin.

2. The transferable jewelry clasp for interchangeable jewelry styles and designs of claim 1, wherein the at least one multi-purpose pin further comprises at least one hinge mechanism.

3. The transferable jewelry clasp for interchangeable jewelry styles and designs of claim 1 further comprising a fastener for supporting jewelry on the wearer, comprising a hoop and a backing member.

4. The transferable jewelry clasp for interchangeable jewelry styles and designs of claim 3 further comprising three fastening pins and three receiving apertures.

5. A transferable jewelry clasp comprising: a first arm;a second arm;a pin hinge;a latch arm; and,a latch arm clasp.

6. The transferable jewelry clasp of claim 5, wherein the first arm and the second arm are attached by the pin hinge.

7. The transferable jewelry clasp of claim 5, wherein the first arm and the second arm are pivotally attached by the pin hinge.

8. The transferable jewelry clasp of claim 5, wherein the first arm comprises of the latch arm.

9. The transferable jewelry clasp of claim 5, wherein the second arm comprises the latch arm clasp.

10. The transferable jewelry clasp of claim 5, wherein the latch arm is in communication with the latch arm clasp.

11. A multi-member jewelry system comprising: an upper member;a central member;a lower member; wherein the upper member and the central member are in sliding communication and wherein the central member and the lower member are in sliding communication.

12. The multi-member jewelry system of claim 11 wherein the upper member comprises a static hoop.

13. The multi-member jewelry system of claim 11 wherein the central member comprises a dynamic clasp hoop.

14. The multi-member jewelry system of claim 11 wherein the lower member comprises a static hoop.