Abstract:
The present invention comprises an apparatus and method for interconnecting jewelry elements. In various embodiments, the invention comprises a first jewelry element having a track disposed therein and a second jewelry element having a feature shaped and sized to traverse the track. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a bracelet having two or more tracks disposed on the surface thereof and a mounted jewel having a base shaped to travel within one or more of the tracks.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0001]    The present invention relates generally to the field of jewelry in general, and in particular to methods and structures for connecting pieces of jewelry to one another.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    Ornamental rings worn on fingers, such as wedding bands, engagement rings and the like are generally made of precious metals such as gold, silver or platinum, and are configured to snugly fit onto fingers, with sized measurement. The interiors of these rings are generally shaped as cylindrical sections, in order to conform to the shape of the fingers on which they are placed. The portion of the exterior of the cylindrical section of a ring which is positioned adjacent the palm of a wearer is generally not ornamented, in order to avoid irritation of the hand. The remaining portions of the ring (except for simple bands) are generally adorned with carvings or etchings, and may incorporate other elements, including set gems with settings.  
           [0003]    The most expensive ring jewelry is provided with setting elements and precious stones set therein. Common setting elements included raised prongs, which engage portions of the precious stones (e.g., the girdle of a commonly cut diamond), and channels formed in the band itself having internal notches, which engage the girdle or edges of the stone or stones. Clear glue or adhesive is sometimes used with inexpensive rings of a costume jewelry type, to hold ersatz stones in place. Rings with channels and internal notches for accommodation of precious gems are generally made with the channels having open bases, in the ring metal beneath the set stones, to permit full light transmission through the stones to enhance brilliance thereof.  
           [0004]    A number of patents have been issued for various jewelry settings. U.S. Pat. No. 5,606,873, for example, discloses a finger ring structure, particularly for rings having precious stones set therein. The ring comprises a standard section of a cylinder, with an inner surface and an outer surface, and is modified such that the circumferential edges of the inner surface are inwardly rounded and wherein the rounded edges of the inner surface, adjacent a setting or ornamental section are provided with a bombe configuration. U.S. Pat. No. 5,003,678 discloses a channel set ring providing a plurality of substantially equidistantly spaced depressions formed in the bottom of a U-shaped groove. Setting holes are formed centrally in each of the plurality of depressions. U.S. Pat. No. 4,821,533 discloses a method of setting precious stones in jewelry, which includes: providing a metal support element of U-shaped cross section with two lateral bands separated by a central band defining between them a channel, providing holes in the lateral bands, placing the stones into the channel, and securing the stones in place in the channel with a wire passed through the holes from one band to the other across the channel. U.S. Pat. No. 1,855,331 relates to finger rings and particularly to finger rings provided with emblems or figures around the band thereof. The ring band has a set of recesses therein, each of which has an emblem mounted therein.  
           [0005]    Not all jewelry incorporates rigidly fixed ornamentation. A number of patents have been issued for jewelry pieces having movable or removable stones or other elements. U.S. Pat. No. 6,065,971, for example, discloses a finger ring counting device to enable persons to accurately count prayers while saying the rosary. The counting device is embodied in a ring structure which can be inconspicuously worn on the hand, and on which there are a number of beads, which are manually movable around the circumference of the ring for counting. U.S. Pat. No. 5,758,945 discloses a device for enhancing the brilliancy of transparent or translucent stones used in jewelry pieces. A tract assembly with one or more channels is mounted in a conspicuous position of a jewelry piece. One or more carriers holding the stones in a through opening are slidably mounted within the channels.  
           [0006]    Although the above-described references relate to the subject matter of jewelry, none of the above-described references disclose the novel structure of the present invention, as is described below.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0007]    The following summary of the invention is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present invention, and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the invention can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.  
           [0008]    In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a jewelry assembly incorporating at least two separate elements movable with respect to one another. The assembly incorporates a first jewelry element having a hollow, generally-cylindrical body having an inner surface, an outer surface having a track disposed therein, a first end surface, a second end surface disposed opposite the first end surface. The assembly also incorporates at least one additional jewelry element having a base captured within and slidably movable along the track and a bauble or jewel connected to the base.  
           [0009]    In a second embodiment, the present invention is a jewelry assembly incorporating two or more elements slidably connected to one another. The first element has a hollow, generally-cylindrical body having an inner surface, an outer surface, a track disposed in the outer surface, a first end surface, and a second end surface disposed opposite the first end surface. The track has an internal surface, an external surface, and a slot disposed in the external surface. The second jewelry element has a base captured within and slidably movable along the track and a bauble or jewel connected to the base.  
           [0010]    The novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description of the invention. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description of the invention and the specific examples presented, while indicating certain embodiments of the present invention, are provided for illustration purposes only because various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those of skill in the art from the detailed description of the invention and claims that follow. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0011]    The accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally-similar elements throughout the separate views and which are incorporated in and form part of the specification, further illustrate the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.  
         [0012]    [0012]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bracelet according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0013]    [0013]FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a jewel and carrier assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0014]    [0014]FIG. 3 is a section view of the bracelet along line  3 - 3  of FIG. 1;  
         [0015]    [0015]FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a ring assembly according to a second embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0016]    [0016]FIG. 5 is a section view of the ring assembly along line  5 - 5  of FIG. 4;  
         [0017]    [0017]FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a ring assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0018]    [0018]FIG. 7 is a section view of the ring assembly of FIG. 6 along line  7 - 7 ;  
         [0019]    [0019]FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a metal strip used in the construction of the ring assembly of FIG. 4;  
         [0020]    [0020]FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a plate-and-ring subassembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0021]    [0021]FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a second metal strip used in the construction of the ring assembly of FIG. 4;  
         [0022]    [0022]FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a plate and dual-ring sub-assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 12 is an isometric view of the manner of assembly of the upper and lower plate sub-assemblies according to one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a ring assembly prior to trimming;  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a ring assembly after trimming; and  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 15 is a flowchart depicting the method of assembly shown in FIGS.  8 - 14 .  
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0027]    The embodiments and examples set forth herein are presented to best explain the present invention and its practical application and to thereby enable those skilled in the art to make and utilize the invention. Those skilled in the art, however, will recognize that the foregoing description and examples have been presented for the purpose of illustration and example only. Other variations and modifications of the present invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art, and it is the intent of the appended claims that such variations and modifications be covered.  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a bracelet  10  according to one embodiment of the present invention. The bracelet  10  shown in FIG. 1 has a set of surfaces including an inner surface  14 , an outer surface  16 , an upper surface  18 , and a lower surface  20 . Within the bracelet  10  shown in FIG. 1 are a series of tracks, specifically an upper track  22 , a connecting track  26 , and a lower track  24 , along which a jewel assembly  28  travels.  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a jewel assembly  28  according to one embodiment of the present invention. The jewel assembly  28 , as shown in FIG. 2, incorporates a jewel assembly base  32  connected to a stem  34 , which is in turn connected to a jewel  30 .  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 3 is a section view of the bracelet  10  along line  3 - 3  of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of upper track  22 , lower track  24 , upper track outer surface cut  36 , and lower track outer surface cut  38 .  
         [0031]    With reference to FIGS.  1 - 3 , the bracelet body  12  may be cylindrically shaped to comfortably fit around the wearer&#39;s wrist, however, the bracelet body  12  may be angular and polygonal in shape to resist unwanted movement of the bracelet  10 . The bracelet body  12  may be formed of metal to increase durability and improve the functional integrity of the bracelet  10 . The bracelet body  12  may, however, be made of plastic or wood based upon the wearer&#39;s preferences. The finish of the inner surface  14  may be smooth, to prevent injury to the wearer or slightly textured to decrease the tendency of the bracelet  10  to spontaneously travel along the wearer&#39;s wrist. The finish of the outer surface  16  may be textured or finished in a glossy and smooth manner to enhance the reflective and aesthetic value of the bracelet  10 . The upper surface  18  and lower surface  20  may be finished in a smooth and glossy manner to prevent injury to the wearer as well as increase the aesthetic value of the bracelet  10 . Alternatively, the upper surface  18  and lower surface  20  may be finished in a textured manner to increase the contrast between the surfaces of the bracelet  10 .  
         [0032]    Within or along the outer surface  16  and the bracelet body  12 , there are one or more tracks  22 - 26  that provide guidance to the movement of the jewel assembly  28 . Upper track  22  and lower track  24  are formed into the bracelet body  12 . In an alternative embodiment, the tracks  22 - 26  may be raised structures that protrude from the outer surface  16  and provide guidance to the jewel assembly  28 .  
         [0033]    The lower track outer surface cut  38  and upper track outer surface cut  36  are located above the respective track (i.e. upper track  22 , lower track  24 , connecting track  26 ). The outer surface cut  36  provides a channel that may assist in the constraint and guidance of the movement of the jewel assembly  28  by constraining the movement of the jewel assembly stem  34 . The thickness of the upper track outer surface cut  36  and lower track outer surface cut  38  may be limited to a dimension slightly larger than the thickness of the stem  34  to provide guidance to and limit the extraneous movement of the jewel assembly  28 . The thickness of the outer surface cuts  36 - 38  should be less than the diameter of the jewel assembly base  32  such that the jewel assembly  28  will remain within the track if the bracelet body  12  is inverted.  
         [0034]    As specifically shown in FIG. 1, the upper track  22  may be continuous as it traverses an interior circumference of the bracelet body  12 . Alternatively, the tracks  22 - 26  may be compartmentalized to allow a set of multiple jewel assemblies  28  to traverse a set of separate tracks. FIG. 1 depicts a lower track  24  that is parallel to the upper track  22  with a starting point at the midpoint of the upper track  22 . Specifically in FIG. 1, a connecting track  26  runs perpendicular to both the upper track  22  and lower track  24 . Alternatively, the lower track  24  and upper track  22  may intersect and allow transition of the jewel assembly  28  between tracks  22 - 24  without the assistance of a connecting track  26 .  
         [0035]    The corners at the intersections of the outer surface cuts  36 - 38  of the connecting track  26 , the upper track  22 , and the lower track  24  may be curved to provide the wearer the ability to easily move and rotate the jewel assembly  28  from the lower track  24  to the upper track  22 . Alternatively, if restraining the movement of the jewel assembly  28  is of greater concern, then the outer surface cuts  36 - 38  may not be curved.  
         [0036]    Now turning specifically to FIGS. 2 and 3, FIG. 2 is an isometric depiction of one embodiment of the jewel  30  and the jewel assembly  28 . FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the upper track  22  and lower track  24  within the bracelet body  12  taken along line  3 - 3  of FIG. 1. The depth and width of the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , and connecting track  26  may be identical. The respective track  22 - 26 , however, should be greater in depth than the cylindrical height of the jewel assembly base  32  and greater in width than the diameter of the jewel assembly base  32 . The depth of the upper track  22  and lower track  24  may be slightly larger than the thickness of the jewel assembly base  32  to create a minimal tolerance between the two entities. The tolerance between the thickness of the jewel assembly base  32  and the depth of the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , and connecting track  26  may be kept at a minimum so that the tolerance allows free movement of the jewel assembly  28  along the respective track without allowing extraneous movement of the jewel assembly  28  that may disturb the wearer. Alternatively, if extraneous movement of the jewel assembly  28  is of little concern to the wearer, then the tolerance can be increased to reduce the overall cost of manufacture of the bracelet  10 .  
         [0037]    In one embodiment, the jewel assembly base  32  or the surface of the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , or connecting track  26  may be lined with a surface that would provide frictional resistance to the movement of the jewel assembly  28 . For example, the walls of a respective track and the jewel assembly base  32  may be lined with Velcro or a Velcro-like material to allow the wearer to easily urge the jewel assembly  28  to a desired location along the respective track and then secure the jewel assembly  28  at the desired location. In another embodiment, the interior walls of the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , or connecting track  26 , may be lined with retractable or non-retractable structures which would limit the movement of the jewel assembly  28  along the respective track to between the structures. In yet another embodiment, the jewel assembly base  32  may contain a spring or latch mechanism that would allow the user to fix the location of the jewel assembly  28  within a respective track as desired  28 . In another embodiment, the jewel assembly base  32  and/or the tracks  22 - 26  may be magnetized to prevent the undesired movement of the jewel assembly  28 .  
         [0038]    Turning specifically to FIG. 2, the stem  34  and jewel assembly base  32  may be constructed of metal to provide structural integrity and durability. Alternatively, the stem  34  and jewel assembly base  32  may be fabricated of plastic to reduce the weight and cost of the respective items. The stem  34  of the jewel assembly  28  may be attached to a jewel  30  or a bauble if the wearer so desires. The jewel assembly base  32  may be cylindrical in shape to allow the easy rotation of the jewel assembly  28 , typically at the intersections of the tracks. Alternatively, the jewel assembly base  32  may be polygonal in shape to provide greater frictional resistance to the movement of the jewel assembly  28 . The diameter of the jewel assembly base  32  should be less than the width of the narrowest track to allow the jewel assembly base  32  to fit within the confines of the respective tracks  22 - 26 . The thickness of the stem  34  may be varied based upon the size of the jewel assembly  28 , the size of the jewel  30 , the weight of the jewel  30 , and the height and length of the stem  34  itself.  
         [0039]    Returning to FIGS.  1 - 3 , the bracelet body  12  may be worn by the wearer on his/her wrist as an ornamental item. The free movement of the jewel assembly  28  along the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , or connecting track  26  enhances the visibility of the jewel  30  to others allowing the wearer to better display the jewel  30 . Moreover, the ability of the jewel assembly  28  to travel the upper track  22 , lower track  24 , and connecting track  26  reduces the likelihood of unwanted separation of the jewel  30  from the jewel assembly  28  that occurs in conventional rigid jewel stems and assemblies. If the wearer is able to secure the position of jewel assembly  28  at a respective point on a respective track, then the wearer is able to position the jewel  30  at an outer surface  16  location that is most desirable to the wearer.  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a ring assembly  50  according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a section view of the ring assembly along line  5 - 5  of FIG. 4. The ring assembly  50 , depicted by FIGS. 4 and 5, has a ring body  52 , inner surface  54 , outer surface  56 , upper surface  58 , and lower surface  60 . Between the outer surface  56  and inner surface  54 , a track  62  provides guidance to the movement of the jewel assembly base  66  and jewel assembly  64 .  
         [0041]    The ring assembly  50  and ring body  52  may be cylindrical in shape to comfortably fit around the wearer&#39;s finger. Alternatively, the ring assembly  50  and ring body  52  may be polygonal in shape to conform to the wearer&#39;s aesthetic desires. Moreover, the ring assembly  50  and ring body  52  may be formed of metal to increase the durability and aesthetic value of the ring assembly  50  and ring body  52 . Alternatively, the ring assembly  50  and ring body  52  may also form plastic to decrease the relative weight and expense.  
         [0042]    The finish of the inner surface  54  may be smooth to prevent injury and irritation to the wearer. The finish may, however, be textured to prevent against unwanted movement. The inner surface  54  may be cylindrical in shape as to allow the wearer to place the ring assembly  50  relatively snugly around his/her finger. Alternatively, the inner surface may be polygonal in shape to conform to the wearer&#39;s desires. The finish of the outer surface  56  may be smooth or textured. The outer surface  56  may be finished with a lacquer or other finish to enhance the reflective and aesthetic value of the ring assembly  50 .  
         [0043]    The finish of the upper surface  58  may be smooth to prevent injury to the wearer. Alternatively, the finish of the upper surface  58  may be textured to provide a contrast between the surfaces of the ring assembly  50 . The upper surface  58  and lower surface  60  may be cylindrical in shape. The upper surface  58  and lower surface  60  may be concentric with the inner surface  54  and the outer surface  56  to aesthetically match the shape of the inner surface  54  and outer surface  56 . Alternatively, the upper surface  58  and lower surface  60  may be angular and polygonal in shape to conform to the aesthetic desires of the wearer. The finish of the lower surface  60  may be smooth to prevent injury to the wearer. Alternatively, the lower surface  60  may be finished in a textured manner to increase the contrast between surfaces  54 - 60  of the ring assembly  50 . The lower surface  60  may be identical in size, shape, and thickness to the upper surface  58  to increase the visual symmetry of the ring assembly  50 . Alternatively, the lower surface  60  may be varied in size, shape, and thickness, as compared to the upper surface  58 , to conform to the aesthetic desires of the wearer.  
         [0044]    A track  62  is located underneath the outer surface  56  and may run the entire circumference of the outer surface  56  if the wearer so desires. Alternatively, the track  62  may run a limited arc of the circumference of the outer surface  56 . The track  62  has an opening that runs along the circumference of the outer surface  56  through which the stem of the jewel assembly  64  remains attached to the jewel assembly base  66  as the jewel assembly  28  travels the track  62 . The width of the track  62  opening in the outer surface  56  may be a value slightly greater than the thickness of the stem of the jewel assembly  64  as to allow free movement of the jewel assembly  64  along the track  62  without excessive and undesired movement of the jewel assembly  64 . Alternatively, the wearer may increase the width of the track  62  opening to decrease the amount of material used in constructing the ring and to reduce production costs. The width of the track  62  opening should not be greater than the diameter of the jewel assembly base  66  in order to prevent separation of the jewel assembly  64  from the track  62 .  
         [0045]    The depth of the central track  62  may be slightly greater than the cylindrical height of the jewel assembly base  66  to allow free movement of the jewel assembly  64  within the track  62  while simultaneously preventing excessive and unwanted movement of the jewel assembly  64 . Alternatively, to reduce production costs, close tolerance between the depth of the central track  62  and cylindrical height of the jewel assembly base  66  may not be maintained.  
         [0046]    The jewel assembly base  66  may be cylindrical in shape to allow ease of movement along the track  62 . The jewel assembly base  66  may, however, be polygonal in shape to provide frictional resistance to the movement of the jewel assembly base  66  along the tack  62 . The jewel assembly  64  and the jewel assembly base  66  may be fabricated of metal to increase the durability and structural integrity of the jewel assembly  64  and the jewel assembly base  66 . Alternatively, the jewel assembly  64  and the jewel assembly base  66  may be fabricated of plastic to reduce the weight and cost of the ring  50 .  
         [0047]    The capacity of the jewel assembly  64  to freely traverse the outer surface  56  of the ring assembly  50  enables the wearer to position the jewel assembly  64  in a manner that is most aesthetically pleasing to the wearer. Moreover, the capacity of the jewel assembly  64  to freely move about the outer surface  56  reduces the likelihood of breakage of the jewel assembly  64  due to forces that cause failure on conventional rigid jewel assemblies.  
         [0048]    [0048]FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a ring assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a section view of the ring assembly of FIG. 6 along line  7 - 7 . The ring  70  depicted by FIGS. 6 and 7 has a ring body  72 , inner surface  74 , outer surface  76 , upper surface  78 , and lower surface  80 . Within the ring  70  depicted by FIGS. 6 and 7 are an upper grove  82 , lower grove  84 , and carrier assembly  86 . The carrier assembly  86  travels above the outer surface  76 .  
         [0049]    The ring  70  and ring body  72  may be cylindrical in shape to best fit the wearer&#39;s finger. Alternatively, the ring  70  and ring body  72  may be polygonal in shape to conform to the wearer&#39;s aesthetic desires. The ring  70  and ring body  72  may be constructed of metal to improve the durability and aesthetic value of the ring  70 . Alternatively, the ring  70  and ring body  72 , may be constructed of plastic to decrease the relative weight and expense of the ring  70 . The finish of the inner surface  74  may be smooth to prevent injury to the wearer. The finish of the inner surface  74  may, however, also be textured to resist against unwanted movement by providing a friction fit with the wearer&#39;s finger. The inner surface  74  may be cylindrical in shape to allow the wearer to place the ring  70  on his/her finger. Alternatively, the inner surface  74  may be polygonal in shape to conform to the wearer&#39;s aesthetic desires.  
         [0050]    The outer surface  76  may be finished smoothly to allow easy movement of the carrier assembly  86  while simultaneously enhancing the reflective and aesthetic value of the ring  70 . Alternatively, the outer surface  76  may also be finished in a textured manner to increase the visual contrasts between the surfaces  74 - 80  of the ring  70 . The upper surface  78  may be shaped in a cylindrical manner and may be concentric with the inner surface  74  to aesthetically comport with the shape of the inner surface  74 . Alternatively, the upper surface  78  may be polygonal in shape to conform with desires of the wearer. The upper surface  78  may be finished smoothly to prevent injury to the wearer. Alternatively, the upper surface  78  may be textured to increase the visual contrasts between the surfaces  74 - 80  of the ring  70 . The lower surface  80  may be identical in size, shape, and texture to the upper surface  78  to improve the symmetrical appearance of the ring  70  and to increase the aesthetic value of the ring  70 . Alternatively, the upper surface  78  and lower surface  80  may be varied in size, shape, and texture to conform to the aesthetic desires of the wearer.  
         [0051]    The upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  restrain the movement of the carrier assembly  86  above or along the outer surface  76  of the ring  70 . The depth of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  is of a relatively small value as compared to the length of the carrier assembly  86 . The diminutive value of the depth of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  with respect to the cross-sectional height of the carrier assembly  86  allows the maximum surface of the carrier assembly  86  to be exposed while still providing sufficient resistance to prevent the carrier assembly from traveling outside the bounds of the respective upper grove  82  and lower grove  84 . The heights of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  are larger than the thickness of the carrier assembly  86 . The heights of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  may be slightly larger than the thickness of the carrier assembly  86  thereby creating a small tolerance between the two structures. The relatively small tolerance between the height of the upper grove  82 , lower grove  84  and the carrier assembly  86  allows for smooth travel of the carrier assembly  86  along the outer surface  76  without excessive and undesired movement of the carrier assembly  86 . Alternatively, the tolerance between the groves  82 - 84  and the carrier assembly may be increased to reduce the fabrication costs.  
         [0052]    The curvature of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  may be concentric with the curvature of the outer surface  76  to allow fluid movement of the carrier assembly  86  along the outer surface  76 . Alternatively, the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  may be off center from the center of the outer surface  76  so that the carrier assembly  86  travels above the outer surface  76  such that a noticeable gap exists between the outer surface  76  and the bottom surface of the carrier assembly  86 . The upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  may be identical with respect to their dimensions and surface finishes to allow for consistent movement of the carrier assembly  86  along the outer surface  76 . Alternatively, the upper grove  82  and the lower grove  84  may be varied with respect to their dimensions to allow for vertical and rotational movement of the carrier assembly  86 .  
         [0053]    In order to allow for easy and smooth movement of the carrier assembly  86  along outer surface  76 , the carrier assembly  86  may be curved to generally match the curvature of the outer surface  76 , upper grove  82 , and lower grove  84 . Alternatively, the curvature of the carrier assembly  86  may be varied from the curvature of the upper grove  82  and lower grove  84  so that the variation in curvature creates frictional resistance against the movement of the carrier assembly  86 . On the upper surface of the carrier assembly  86  a jewel or bauble may be attached if so desired by the wearer.  
         [0054]    FIGS.  8 - 15  depict the assembly process for a ring according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS.  8 - 14  depict various stages of the assembly process, which are shown in FIG. 15 in flowchart form.  
         [0055]    [0055]FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a strip used in the construction of a ring assembly. FIG. 8 depicts a strip  100  with a top surface  102 , bottom surface  104 , a pair of edges  106 , and a pair of ends  108 . The planar dimensions of the strip  100  are a width W and length L.  
         [0056]    The strip  100  may be fabricated of metal to increase durability. Alternatively, the strip  100  may be fabricated of plastic to reduce production costs. Procurement of the strip  100  is the starting point  200  referenced by the flowchart in FIG. 15. The shape of the strip  100  is polygonal to allow for ease of manufacture. The strip may be fashioned in a manner such that the width W dimension is relatively smaller than the length L dimension. The strip  100 , when bent in a manner to create a cylinder, may produce a cylinder having a relatively small cylindrical height in comparison to the circumference. The ends of the strip  100  may be complementary in shape such that when joined to form a generally circular cylinder the joint will form a continuous top surface  102  and bottom surface  104 . Alternatively, the ends of the strip may be contrasting in shape such that when joined the surfaces  102  and  104  are no longer continuous. Moreover, the edges  106  may be flat as to simplify the manufacture process.  
         [0057]    Now turning to FIG. 9, this figure depicts an isometric view of a plate-and-ring sub-assembly  126  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Sub-assembly  126  incorporates a bent strip  100  that has an inner surface  102  and outer surface  104  where the bent strip  100  is joined at the ends by a strip joint. FIG. 9 depicts a bent strip  100  that is connected to a plate  122  at a plate joint.  
         [0058]    The strip  100  may be bent, in a circular manner, around an axis that is perpendicular to the length dimension L and parallel to the width dimension W in order to fit comfortably against the wearer&#39;s finger. Alternatively, the strip  100  may be bent in an angular fashion such that the bent strip  100  forms a polygonal shape that would conform to the aesthetic desires of the wearer. To increase the comfort of the wearer, the ends  108  may be connected in a manner that creates a flush and continuous inner surface  102 . Alternatively, the ends  108  may be joined in a manner that creates a ledge or protrusion that provides resistance against unwanted movement of the ring assembly  50  along the wearer&#39;s finger. If the strip  100  is made of metal, then the ends  108  of the strip  100  may be connected by soldering the ends  108  forming a soldered strip joint. In an alternative embodiment, if the strip  100  is fashioned of plastic, for example, the strip joint may be attached by using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism. The joinder of the strip  100  and ends  108  is referenced by step  202  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0059]    Subsequent to the bending of the strip  100  and joinder of the ends  108 , the reshaped strip  100  is attached to a plate  122 . The shape of the plate  122  should generally be complementary to the shape of the edges  106  such that, when joined, the plate  122  and strip  100  would form a flush joint. The plate  122  may be made of metal or may be made of plastic. The plate  122  will generally be larger in width and thickness than the diameter of the bent strip  100 . Moreover, the thickness of plate  122  may be relatively small in comparison to the length and width of the plate  122  to reduce the amount of plate  122  material used. Alternatively, the plate  122  may be shaved or cut after joining, to the desired size of the wearer. In one embodiment, if the plate  122  is made of metal, the plate  122  may be attached to the bent strip  100  using solder, creating a soldered plate joint. In an alternative embodiment, if the plate  122  is made of a non-metallic material, the plate  122  may be fastened at the plate joint using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism. The joinder of the strip  100  to the plate  122  is referenced by step  204  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0060]    Now turning to FIG. 10, this figure is an isometric view of a second strip  130  used in the construction of the ring assembly  130 - 138  of the instant embodiment shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 10 depicts a strip  130  with a top surface  132 , a bottom surface  134 , a pair of edges  136 , and a pair of ends  138 . The dimensions of the strip  130  are width W 2  and length L 2 . The strip  130  may be made of metal or another relatively flexible-material. The strip  130  is preferably rectangular in shape. The strip  130  is slightly larger in length L 2  and smaller in width W 2  than the first strip  100  referenced in FIG. 8. The ends  138  of the strip  130  may be complementary in shape to provide a flush fit when joined. Moreover, the edges  136  are preferably flat to provide a flush fit against a flat plate.  
         [0061]    Now turning to FIG. 11, this figure depicts an isometric view of a dual-ring sub-assembly  160  according to the instant embodiment shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 11 depicts an inner strip  100  with an inner surface  102  and an outer surface  104  that is joined at the ends by a strip joint. FIG. 11 also depicts a plate  122  and an outer strip  130 .  
         [0062]    The outer strip  130  may be bent in a generally circular manner, preferably similar in shape to the inner strip  100 . Alternatively, the outer strip  130  may also be bent in an angular manner such that outer strip  130  forms a polygonal shape. The ends  138  of the outer strip  130  may be connected in a manner that creates a flush and continuous inner surface of the outer strip  130  to allow for an obstruction free channel between the outer strip  130  and the inner strip  100 . Alternatively, the outer strip  130  may be joined at the ends  138  in a manner that creates a protrusion that would limit the movement of a jewel assembly within the channel created by the inner strip  100  and the outer strip  130 . In one embodiment, where the outer strip  130  is made of metal, the ends  138  of the outer strip  130  may be connected by soldering the ends  138  together forming a soldered strip joint. In an alternative embodiment, where the outer strip  130  is fashioned of plastic, for example, the ends  138  may be attached by using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism.  
         [0063]    Subsequent to the bending of the outer strip  130  and joinder of the ends  138 , the reshaped outer strip  130  is attached to the plate  122  the inner strip  100  is attached to. The reshaped outer strip  130  is attached to the plate  122  in a manner such that the outer strip  130  is relatively concentric with the inner strip  100 . In one embodiment, if the plate  122  is made of metal, the plate  122  may be attached to the bent outer strip  130  using solder creating a soldered plate joint at the intersection of the plate  122  and the bent outer strip  130 . However, in an alternative embodiment, if the plate  122  is made of a different material than metal, the bent outer strip  130  may be fastened at the plate joint using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism. The joinder of the outer strip  130  to the plate  122  is reference by steps  206 ,  208 , and  210  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0064]    Now turning to FIG. 12, this figure depicts an isometric view of the manner of assembly of the upper and lower plate sub-assemblies according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 depicts a jewel assembly  28 , an inner strip  100 , a lower outer strip  130 , an upper outer strip  152 , a lower plate  122 , an upper plate  172 , an upper plate joint  174 , a lower dual ring sub-assembly  160 , and an upper outer ring sub-assembly  170 . The inner strip  100  has an inner surface  102 , an outer surface  104 , and a strip joint.  
         [0065]    The bent upper outer strip  152  is relatively identical in shape and curvature to the lower outer strip  130 . Moreover, the sum of the cylindrical height of the upper outer strip  152  and the lower outer strip  130  is less than the cylindrical height of the inner strip  100 . The variation of cylindrical heights will create a channel between the upper outer strip  152  and the lower outer strip  130  through which the stem of the jewel assembly  28  will travel. In one embodiment, where the upper outer strip  152  is made of metal the ends of the upper outer strip  152  may be connected by soldering the ends forming a soldered strip joint. In an alternative embodiment, where the upper outer strip  152  is fashioned of plastic, for example, the strip joint may be attached by using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism. Subsequent to the bending of the upper outer strip  152  and joinder of the ends of the upper outer strip  152 , the reshaped upper outer strip  152  is attached to an upper plate  172 . The upper plate  172  may be made of metal or may also be made of plastic but the upper plate  172  is most effective if the upper plate  172  is made of a relatively rigid material. The upper plate  172  is slightly larger in width and length than the diameter of the upper outer strip  152  in order to limit the amount of upper plate  172  material used. Moreover, the thickness of the upper plate  172  is relatively small in comparison to the length and width of the upper plate  172  to again reduce the volume of upper plate  172  material used. In one embodiment, if the upper plate  172  is made of metal, the upper plate  172  may be attached to the upper outer strip  152  using solder creating a soldered plate joint. However, in an alternative embodiment, the upper plate  172 , if it is made of a different material than metal, may be fastened at the plate joint using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism.  
         [0066]    The jewel assembly  28  base is placed into the channel created by space between the lower inner strip  100  and the lower outer strip  130  of the lower dual ring sub-assembly  160 . The upper outer ring sub-assembly  170  is lowered onto the lower dual ring sub-assembly  160  in a manner such that the upper outer strip  152  is concentric with the lower inner strip  100  and the upper plate  172  intersects the upper edge of the lower inner strip  100 . In one embodiment, if the upper plate  172  and the lower inner ring  100  are fabricated of metal, the upper outer ring sub-assembly  170  may be fastened to the lower dual ring sub-assembly  160  by soldering the intersection of the upper plate  172  and lower inner strip  100 . In an alternative embodiment, if the upper plate  172  or lower inner strip  100  is fabricated out of a non-metallic material, then the upper outer ring sub-assembly  170  and lower dual ring subassembly  160  may be joined by using an adhesive or a fastener mechanism. The joinder of the upper outer strip  152  to the upper plate  172  is reference by step  212  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15. The insertion of the jewel assembly  28  and the joinder of the upper plate  172  to the lower inner strip  100  are reference by steps  214  and  216  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0067]    Now turning to FIG. 13, this figure depicts an isometric view of a ring assembly prior to trimming. FIG. 13 depicts a jewel assembly  28 , a lower plate  160 , a fastened ring assembly  170 , and an upper plate  172 .  
         [0068]    The excess material of the upper plate  172  and lower plate  160  is removed to allow the wearer to place the ring on his/her finger. Removal of the excess material is conducted through any well-known trimming process. The plate material that is trimmed is the upper plate  172  and lower plate  160  material inside the perimeter circumscribed by the inner surface  102  of the inner strip  100 . Moreover, the plate material that is trimmed is the plate material outside the perimeter created by the intersection of the outer surface of the upper outer strip  152  and the upper plate  172  as well as the material outside the perimeter created by the intersection of the outer surface of the lower outer strip  130  and the lower plate  122 . The trimming process is referenced by step  218  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0069]    Now turning to FIG. 14, FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a ring assembly after trimming. FIG. 14 depicts a final ring assembly  170  and a jewel assembly  28 .  
         [0070]    The exposed surfaces of the finial ring assembly  170  are polished to the finish textures desired by the wearer. In one embodiment, the exposed surfaces of the finial ring assembly  170  may be adorned with an artistic design or message to increase the value of the final ring assembly  170  to the wearer. The polish of the finial ring assembly  170  is referenced by step  220  of the flow chart  200  depicted by FIG. 15.  
         [0071]    It can therefore be seen that the instant invention provides a unique and novel device for altering the position of a jewel or carrier assembly as to allow the wearer to best position and highlight the jewel or carrier. Moreover, the instant invention provides a unique device for reducing the likelihood of breakage of the jewel or carrier assembly that occurs in traditional rigid jewel assemblies due to impulse forces.  
         [0072]    The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the invention. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims. It is contemplated that the use of the present invention can involve components having different characteristics. It is intended that the scope of the present invention be defined by the claims appended hereto, giving full cognizance to equivalents in all respects.