Jewelry apparatus for concealing and organizing jewelry chains and clasps

Abstract

A jewelry apparatus for arranging multiple pieces of jewelry comprises upper and lower shells forming a cavity when closed, with aligned notches in the shells creating paired openings on opposite sides of the apparatus. A securing mechanism within the cavity of the apparatus secures at least one piece of jewelry such that the first end of the piece of jewelry extends through a first opening of the paired openings and the second end extends through a second opening of the paired openings.

Description

JEWELRY APPARATUS FOR CONCEALING AND ORGANIZING JEWELRY CHAINS AND CLASPSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present non-provisional application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 645,846 filed May 11 , 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to jewelry accessories, specifically to a jewelry apparatus for concealing jewelry clasps, organizing multiple jewelry pieces, and preventing chain entanglement.BACKGROUND INFORMATION

[0003] Jewelry has been around for thousands of years, with each decade adding its own unique flair to influence the way that jewelry is made, worn, and adorned. An individual may wear one piece of jewelry at a time or several pieces all at once. Even with such a long history and tradition with jewelry, there are many problems in the art that need to be overcome.

[0004] Necklaces, bracelets, and anklets have two ends secured by a clasp and a jump ring. Occasionally, when moving about their day, an individual notices that the clasps and accompanying jump rings on their necklaces slide to the front of their neck. While walking down the street, one can observe several clasps that are out of place. When wearing multiple chains, the chains may tangle and fail to remain in place. This can frustrate an individual wearing the jewelry pieces, as it disrupts a polished and cohesive aesthetic. iThe clasps of necklaces and bracelets are not always appealing, and spare chain may dangle from the clasp, contributing to a messy appearance.

[0005] Prior attempts to address these issues include necklace detangling devices with separable attachment members, each having corresponding necklace hoops to connect to opposite ends of the necklace, the members being securable by magnets or other fasteners. Despite their intent, these prior art devices fall short. They fail to conceal the clasps or any spare chain at the ends of the necklace. They are also difficult to assemble, particularly for individuals with long nails or elderly individuals with arthritis. Moreover, they do not prevent hair from becoming tangled in the clasps.

[0006] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved apparatus designed to maintain the arrangement of multiple pieces of jewelry, concealing and organizing jewelry chains and clasps to address the problems herein described.SUMMARY

[0007] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a jewelry apparatus includes an upper shell and a lower shell forming a cavity therein accessible by paired openings defined by aligned notches in the sidewalls of the upper and lower shells. More specifically, each of the upper shell and the lower shell is designed with a surface surrounded by sidewalls that form wells. The sidewalls of both shells feature a plurality of notches. When the upper and lower shells are releasably closed together, the corresponding notches align to create paired openings into the cavity that is formed by the aligned wells. These openings are arranged in aligned pairs on opposite sides of the jewelry apparatus to receive opposite ends of jewelry.

[0008] In alternative embodiments, the jewelry apparatus includes a closure mechanism to releasably hold the upper and lower shells in the closed position. The closure mechanism may incorporate a hinge to combine the shells, a mechanical lock for added security, or cooperating magnets to enhance the ease of use and aesthetic appeal.

[0009] Further embodiments of the jewelry apparatus introduce securing mechanisms aligned with each paired opening, designed to receive and hold pieces of jewelry securely within the cavity. These securing mechanisms can be integrated into either the surface of the upper or lower shell and may include a magnetic base for additional functionality and convenience. In some configurations, the jewelry apparatus includes both a hinge and a locking mechanism to ensure the shells remain securely closed during use.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description, taken together with the drawings wherein:

[0011] FIG. 1 is a rear-view of a person wearing a jewelry apparatus with multiple necklaces.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the jewelry apparatus of FIG. 1 in the closed position.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a jewelry apparatus in the open position according to this disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4 is a top-facing view of the jewelry apparatus of FIG. 1 in the open position containing multiple necklaces.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Referring to FIG. 1 , depicted is a jewelry apparatus 100 according to this disclosure, shown adorning the neck of a person. In this illustration, the person is wearing three pieces of jewelry 10, each elegantly arranged and evenly spaced by jewelry apparatus 100. The design of jewelry apparatus 100 solves several problems, including preventing the clasps of the necklace from shifting to the front of the neck, concealing the clasps and the spare chain at the ends of the necklace, allowing for easy assembly by those with long nails or arthritis, preventing hair from getting tangled in the clasps, and preventing entanglement by multiple necklaces. Jewelry apparatus 100 enhances the overall aesthetic of the jewelry ensemble, creating an elegant and sophisticated display. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that jewelry apparatus 100 is versatile and compatible with various types of jewelry 10, including but not limited to, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and similar adornments. Furthermore, jewelry apparatus 100 can be configured to accommodate and elegantly display one or any desired number of pieces of jewelry 10.

[0016] Referring to FIGs. 2 and 3, depicted is jewelry apparatus 100 in its closed position, elegantly designed for an esthetic appearance even without any jewelry 10. Jewelry apparatus 100 comprises an upper shell 102a and a lower shell 102b, which seamlessly close together to securely hold jewelry 10 in place. Each shell 102a, 102b forms half of a refined, closable structure featuring corresponding notches 104a, 104b. These notches 104a, 104b align perfectly when the shells 102a, 102b are closed, creating a graceful, bounded opening 104 into jewelry apparatus 100. Notches 104a, 104b are formed on sidewalls 105 surrounding a surface 103 of each upper shell 102a and lower shell 102bforming a first well 107 and a second well 109, respectively. When shells 102a, 102b are placed together in the closed position, first well 107 and second well 109 align to form a cavity inside jewelry apparatus 100 accessible by aligned, paired openings 104. Positioned as paired openings 104 on opposite sides of jewelry apparatus 100, these openings 104 allow each piece of jewelry 10 to rest distinctly and beautifully arranged in a layered fashion, as illustrated in FIG. 4, enhancing the overall presentation. Jewelry apparatus 100 can be configured to accommodate and elegantly display one or any desired number of pieces of jewelry 10. Accordingly, jewelry apparatus 100 can have one or any number of paired openings 104 aligned on opposite sides of jewelry apparatus 100.

[0017] FIG. 3, shown is jewelry apparatus 100 in the open position with each upper shell 102a and lower shell 102b joined together by a closure mechanism 108 that can comprise a hinge 106 and selectably sealable by a releasable friction clasp pin 108a on one of upper shell 102a and lower shell 102b that is frictionally fit into a receiving hole 108b on the other of upper shell 102a and lower shell 102b. In the illustrated embodiment, upper shell 102a and lower shell 102b of jewelry apparatus 100 are brought into alignment, such that friction clasp pin 108a on one shell 102a, 102b aligns with the corresponding receiving hole 108b on the opposite shell 102a, 102b. Friction clasp pin 108a is gently inserted into receiving hole 108b. This action creates a mechanical connection between the two shells 102a, 102b, holding them together. The dimensions of the friction clasp pin 108a and receiving hole 108b are designed to ensure a snug fit, preventing unintended separation. Friction clasp pin 108a may include additional design features, such as a slight taper, ridge, or notch, that enhances its ability to remain securely in place onceinserted into receiving hole 108b. Similarly, receiving hole 108b may have complementary features, such as a tapered entry or friction-enhancing surface, to improve retention. Once friction clasp pin 108a is fully inserted, the shells are firmly connected, completing the closure of jewelry apparatus 100. This mechanism ensures the jewelry remains securely fastened during use. To open jewelry apparatus 100, friction clasp pin 108a is gently withdrawn from receiving hole 108b, allowing two shells 102a, 102b to separate. The design ensures this process can be performed with minimal effort while still maintaining reliable security during wear.

[0018] Those skilled in the art will understand that a wide variety of closure mechanisms 108, with or without hinge 106, can be employed. For example, these may include mechanical fastening mechanisms, snap fasteners, twist-lock engagements, slidelatching mechanisms, rotating latches, push-button release mechanisms, bayonet locks, and others. Alternatively, shells 102a, 102b can be closed using a magnetic closure mechanism, with magnets on each shell securely holding the two halves together. Each type of closure mechanism 108 provides variations in functionality, aesthetics, and suitability for different types of jewelry apparatus 100.

[0019] Within jewelry apparatus 100 is a securing mechanism 110, aligned with each paired opening 104. Each securing mechanism 110 is designed to accommodate the opposing ends of a piece of jewelry 10, such as the clasp and ring of a necklace. Each securing mechanism 110 is positioned to align with a paired opening 104a securing one end of a jewelry piece (e.g., a clasp) while the opposite end passes through the corresponding opening 104, maintaining separation between chains of jewelry 10 to prevent tangling. Securing mechanism 110 may be adjustable or removable toaccommodate various jewelry 10 sizes and types, such as necklaces, bracelets, or anklets. Again, these ends attach securely to securing mechanism 110, with one passing through opening 104 on one side of jewelry apparatus 100 and the other through the opposite opening 104, as illustrated in FIG. 4. This arrangement allows each piece of jewelry 10 to rest distinctly and beautifully in a layered fashion, further enhancing its elegant presentation, as depicted in FIG. 1.

[0020] Securing mechanism 110 retains jewelry within the cavity, ensuring organization and clasp concealment. Securing mechanism 110 can take the form of a hook, a post, a clip, an adhesive strip with repositionable tacky surfaces, etc. Each securing mechanism 110 may be connected within jewelry apparatus 100 in various configurations to suit different needs and manufacturing preferences. In one embodiment, securing mechanism 110 is fixed in place, integrally formed with or permanently attached to the surface 103 of either upper shell 102a or lower shell 102b, such as by molding, welding, soldering, or adhesive bonding, ensuring a robust and stable anchor for the jewelry 10. Alternatively, securing mechanism 110 may be removably attached to surface 103 via a threaded base, wherein the hook screws into a corresponding threaded receptacle embedded in upper shell 102a or lower shell 102b, allowing for replacement or adjustment as needed. In another configuration, securing mechanism 110 is mounted on a magnetic base 112 which adheres to a ferrous or magnetic surface 113. This magnetic attachment permits each securing mechanism 110 to be repositioned along surface 103, offering customizable spacing and orientation for each use. Further embodiments include a snap- fit mechanism, wherein securing mechanism 110 features a resilient clip that engages a mating slot or ridge on surface 103, providing secure yet detachable positioning.Additionally, securing mechanism 110 may be pivotally connected via a small hinge or swivel joint affixed to a surface in upper shell 102a or lower shell 102b, enabling securing mechanism 110 to rotate or tilt within the cavity to accommodate varying angles of jewelry attachment or to fold flat when not in use. Securing mechanism could be a rod that fits within the cavity that is inserted through each end of the jewelry and laid in and held in the cavity. Each of these connection methods (fixed, threaded, magnetic, snap-fit, adhesive, mechanical, or pivotal) enhances the jewelry apparatus’s 100 adaptability, ensuring jewelry 10 remains securely held and elegantly arranged regardless of the number of pieces or their specific design.

[0021] The foregoing design of jewelry apparatus 100 solves several problems of the prior art devices. Jewelry apparatus 100 prevents entanglement of multiple necklaces, and prevents the clasps of jewelry 10 from shifting to the front of the neck, which is a constant frustration. Jewelry apparatus 100 conceals the clasps and the spare chain at the ends of jewelry 10 in the form of necklaces to present a neat, aesthetically pleasing look. Jewelry apparatus 100 presents jewelry hooks 110 inside in a way that allows for easy assembly by women with long nails or arthritis. Jewelry apparatus 100 prevents hair from getting tangled in the clasps by hiding the clasps of jewelry 10 inside the cavity of jewelry apparatus 100. Overall, jewelry apparatus 100 enhances the overall aesthetic of the jewelry ensemble, creating an elegant and sophisticated display. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that jewelry apparatus 100 is versatile and compatible with various types of jewelry 10, including but not limited to, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and similar adornments. Furthermore, jewelry apparatus 100 can be configured to accommodate and elegantly display one or any desired number of pieces of jewelry 10.

[0022] While the principles of the invention have been described herein, it is to be understood by those skilled in the art that this description is made only by way of example and not as a limitation as to the scope of the invention. Other embodiments are contemplated within the scope of the present invention in addition to the exemplary embodiments shown and described herein. Modifications and substitutions by one of ordinary skill in the art are considered to be within the scope of the present invention, which is not to be limited except by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:1 . A jewelry apparatus comprising: an upper shell comprising a surface surrounded by sidewalls to create first well in the upper shell with a plurality of notches in the sidewalls; a lower shell comprising a surface surrounded by sidewalls to create a second well in the lower shell with a plurality of notches in the sidewalls; wherein each notch of the plurality of notches in the sidewalls of the upper shell aligns with a notch of the plurality of notches in the sidewalls of the lower shell when the upper shell and the lower shell are releasably closed together to form an opening of a plurality of openings in a cavity, with the cavity being defined by an alignment of the first well in the upper shell and the second well in the lower shell, and wherein the plurality of openings are arranged in aligned pairs in opposite sides of the upper shell and lower shell.

2. The jewelry apparatus of claim 1 , and further comprising a closure mechanism to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

3. The jewelry apparatus of claim 2, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises a hinge mechanism to combine the upper shell and the lower shell together.

4. The jewelry apparatus of claim 3, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises a mechanical lock to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

5. The jewelry apparatus of claim 3, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises cooperating magnets to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

6. The jewelry apparatus of claim 1 , and further comprising a securing mechanism aligned with each paired openings configured to receive a piece of jewelry to hold the piece of jewelry.

7. The jewelry apparatus of claim 6, wherein the securing mechanism is combined to one of the surface in the upper shell and the surface in the lower shell.

8. The jewelry apparatus of claim 7, wherein the securing mechanism further comprises a magnetic base.

9. The jewelry apparatus of claim 8, and further comprising a hinge securing the upper shell and the lower shell together and a locking mechanism to hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

10. A jewelry apparatus for arranging multiple pieces of jewelry, the jewelry apparatus comprising: an upper shell; a lower shell combinable to the upper shell to form a cavity in the combined upper shell and lower shell; where in each of the upper shell and lower shell comprises a plurality of notch pairs that when aligned together when the upper shell and the lower shell are in a closed position form an opening into the cavity; and a plurality of openings comprising opening pairs on opposite sides of the cavity configured to receive a piece of jewelry with one end of each side of the piece of jewelry extending into one opening of the opening pairs.11 . The jewelry apparatus of claim 10, wherein the upper shell further comprises a surface surrounded by sidewalls to create first well in the upper shell with the plurality of notches in the sidewalls; wherein the lower shell comprises a surface surrounded by sidewalls to create a second well in the lower shell with the plurality of notches in the sidewalls; and wherein each notch of the plurality of notches in the sidewalls of the upper shell aligns with a notch of the plurality of notches in the sidewalls of the lower shell when the upper shell and the lower shell are releasably closed together to form the opening of a plurality of openings in the cavity, with the cavity being defined by the alignment of the first well in the upper shell and the second well in the lower shell, and wherein the plurality of openings are arranged in aligned pairs in opposite sides of the cavity.

12. The jewelry apparatus of claim 10, and further comprising a hinge combining the upper shell and the lower shell.

13. The jewelry apparatus of claim 12, and further comprising a closure mechanism to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

14. The jewelry apparatus of claim 13, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises a mechanical lock to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

15. The jewelry apparatus of claim 13, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises cooperating magnets to releasably hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

16. The jewelry apparatus of claim 10, and further comprising a securing mechanism aligned with each opening pair configured to receive a piece of jewelry to hold the piece of jewelry.

17. The jewelry apparatus of claim 16, wherein the securing mechanism is combined to one of the upper shell and the lower shell.

18. The jewelry apparatus of claim 17, wherein the securing mechansim further comprises a magnetic base.

19. The jewelry apparatus of claim 18, and further comprising a hinge securing the upper shell and the lower shell together and a locking mechanism to hold the upper shell and the lower shell in the closed position.

20. A jewelry apparatus for organizing one or more pieces of jewelry each of which having a first end and a second end, the jewelry apparatus comprising: an upper shell having a first surface surrounded by sidewalls defining a first well, the sidewalls including a plurality of notches; a lower shell having a second surface surrounded by sidewalls defining a second well, the sidewalls including a plurality of notches; wherein, when the upper shell and the lower shell are releasably closed, each notch of the upper shell aligns with a corresponding notch of the lower shell to form a plurality of openings into a cavity defined by the first well and the second well, the openings arranged in aligned pairs of openings on opposite sides of the cavity; and a securing mechanism within the cavity, configured to secure at least one piece of jewelry such that the first end of the piece of jewelry extends through a first opening of the aligned pairs of openings and the second end extends through a second opening of the aligned pairs of openings, thereby organizing the piece of jewelry.

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