U.S. patent application number 11/248961 was filed with the patent office on 2007-04-12 for keepsake storage jewelry apparatus and method for manufacturing the same.
Invention is credited to Josephine Thormahlen.
Application Number | 20070080077 11/248961 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37910223 |
Filed Date | 2007-04-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070080077 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Thormahlen; Josephine |
April 12, 2007 |
Keepsake storage jewelry apparatus and method for manufacturing the
same
Abstract
A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus hermetically preserves and
securely stores remembrance objects in a decorative jewelry piece.
A first portion of the apparatus has an external door member. A
receiving vessel is fixedly housed within the first portion. The
receiving vessel has an inner vessel door for housing the
remembrance object in an airtight environment therewithin. This
dual door configuration provides a highly secure and airtight
environment. Remembrance objects, such crematory ashes, hair
samples, blood, or other DNA containing items are permanently
secured within a decorative jewelry piece, enabling them to be
admired and worn in a safe, reliable manner.
Inventors: |
Thormahlen; Josephine;
(Dover, NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ERNEST D. BUFF;ERNEST D. BUFF AND ASSOCIATES, LLC.
231 SOMERVILLE ROAD
BEDMINSTER
NJ
07921
US
|
Family ID: |
37910223 |
Appl. No.: |
11/248961 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/6.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 11/16 20130101;
A45C 2200/10 20130101; A45C 11/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/006.1 |
International
Class: |
A45C 11/04 20060101
A45C011/04 |
Claims
1. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus for housing one or more
remembrance objects therein, comprising: a. a first portion having
at least one sidewall member and a bottom member arranged to form a
hollow insert, said first portion further comprising an external
door member appointed to engage with each of said sidewall members
to form closed and open configurations; b. a receiving vessel
fixedly housed within said hollow insert of said first portion,
said receiving vessel further comprising at least one vessel wall
and a vessel bottom arranged to form a chamber adapted to house one
or more of said remembrance objects therein; and c. an inner vessel
door fixedly attached by way of hinge means to at least one of said
vessel walls, for engaging each of said vessel walls to seal said
receiving vessel so that said remembrance object is securely housed
in an airtight environment therewithin.
2. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1
comprising an attachment means fixedly attached to said first
portion to form a jewelry piece appointed to be worn by a user.
3. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 2,
wherein said attachment means comprises an attachment loop so that
said jewelry apparatus can be worn on a chain by said user.
4. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 2,
wherein said attachment means comprises at least one link so that a
plurality of said first portions can be linked together.
5. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 4,
wherein said plurality of said first portions is linked together to
form a bracelet, a necklace, a ring, a pendant, or a broach.
6. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 4,
wherein said plurality of said first portions is linked together to
form a piece of jewelry adapted to receive at least one first
portion so that said piece of jewelry can be extended.
7. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said external door comprises a decorative surface.
8. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim. 1,
wherein said external door is hingedly attached to said sidewall
member of said first portion by way of a hinge portion, so that
said external door is adapted to be opened and closed in a pivoting
motion.
9. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said external door further comprises a locking member
adapted to securely lock said external door in said closed
configuration.
10. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said external door is composed of a transparent
material.
11. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said inner vessel door is composed of a transparent
material so that said remembrance object housed within said chamber
is viewable when said inner vessel door is in a shut
configuration.
12. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 11,
wherein said inner vessel door is composed of a transparent
material having magnifying properties so that said remembrance
object housed within said chamber is viewable in a magnified
condition when said inner vessel door is in said shut
configuration.
13. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said inner vessel door further comprises a vessel gasket
member adapted to form a seal with each of said vessel sidewalls so
that said airtight environment is maintained.
14. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said external door further comprises a seal member for
forming a seal with each of said sidewall members of said first
portion so that said receiving vessel is housed in an airtight
environment.
15. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said inner vessel door further comprises a catch for
securely locking said inner vessel door in a closed
configuration.
16. A keepsake storage jewelry apparatus as recited by claim 1,
wherein said remembrance objects comprise organic matter from a
living person or animal.
17. A process for manufacture of a keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus for housing one or more remembrance objects therein,
comprising the steps of: a. forming a first portion having at least
one sidewall member and a bottom member arranged to form a hollow
insert; b. attaching an external door member to one of said
sidewall members; c. forming a receiving vessel comprising at least
one vessel wall and a vessel bottom arranged to form a chamber
appointed to house one or more of said remembrance objects therein;
d. attaching to at least one of said vessel walls an inner vessel
door adapted to seal said receiving vessel so that said remembrance
object is securely housed therein; and e. placing said receiving
vessel within said hollow insert of said first portion in a fixed
manner.
18. A method for sealing objects within a keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus for housing one or more remembrance objects therein,
comprising the steps of: a. selecting a remembrance object; b.
placing said remembrance object in a chamber located within a
receiving vessel comprising at least one vessel wall and being
provided with an inner vessel door; c. closing said inner vessel
door so that said remembrance object is housed within said chamber
of said inner vessel in an airtight environment; d. soldering said
inner vessel door to each of said vessel walls to permanently seal
said remembrance object within said chamber of said receiving
vessel in a highly secure manner; e. placing said receiving vessel
inside a hollow insert within a first portion, said first portion
comprising sidewall members and an external door member adapted to
engage with each of said sidewall members to form closed and open
configurations; f. engaging said external door member so that said
external door member is in said closed configuration; g. locking
said external door member in said closed configuration by way of a
locking means; and h. attaching said first portion to a second
portion to form a piece of wearable jewelry.
19. A method for sealing objects within a keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus as recited by claim 19, wherein said method is carried
out by a jeweler or other professional craftsman.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus and method for manufacturing the same; and more
particularly, to keepsake storage jewelry appointed for
hermetically preserving and securely storing remembrances such as
organic remains, including crematory ashes, hair samples or the
like, in a decorative jewelry piece.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] The ability to securely carry keepsakes or remembrance
objects intimately associated with a love one within a decorative
jewelry piece that can be worn every day and kept close provides
great comfort and joy to the wearer so that the wearer can cherish
the memory of their loved one. These remembrance objects are
particularly geared toward organic matter, including a lock of
hair, a drop of blood, cremation ashes, or other like cherished
objects, which are virtually irreplaceable. Great comfort can be
achieved through wearing and carrying these keepsakes or
remembrance objects within an attractive, decorative jewelry
piece.
[0005] As these keepsake objects are virtually irreplaceable, it is
extremely important that the storage jewelry piece be constructed
in a highly secure manner, not only to ward off degradation that
can occur due to environmental elements, but further to minimize
the risk of loss or damage. An airtight, moisture resistant,
environment is highly optimal in protecting the remembrance object
from air and moisture. Moreover, a dual access door construction is
highly optimal in protecting the remembrance object from being lost
or damaged.
[0006] Various types of storage jewelry devices for housing objects
are known in the art, but none of the known storage jewelry devices
provide a highly secured airtight environment constructed by way of
a fixedly attached dual door construction. Significantly, many of
the storage jewelry devices heretofore disclosed and utilized
provide only a single door construction for accessing the receiving
vessel in which the object is housed. Consequently, damage to the
door through natural wear and tear of the jewelry piece inevitably
leads to an increased risk of damage or even worse, loss, of the
object. Where the objects were to be irreplaceable remembrance
objects, the resultant loss would be emotionally devastating.
Moreover, the single door construction provides direct entry to the
object when the door is opened, as a result, the object may be
vulnerable to damage or loss when the single access door is being
opened.
[0007] Additionally, many of the storage jewelry devices heretofore
disclosed and utilized fail to provide an airtight, sealed
environment. As a result, the objects housed within the jewelry are
vulnerable to air exposure and moisture penetration causing
degradation of the object. Over time, the object becomes prone to
degradation as the keepsake is exposed to contaminants and
moisture, and the keepsake becomes subject to degradation and
ruin.
[0008] The single door construction and the lack of airtight
environment are features generally utilized by storage jewelry
pieces, which are designed to carry frequently utilized objects
requiring short-term storage. For example, several storage jewelry
devices heretofore disclosed and utilized are not constructed for
housing keepsake objects, but instead are appointed to house and
carry non-sentimental objects having a utilitarian nature.
Specifically, those storage jewelry devices are constructed for
housing and carrying such objects as coins, currency, make-up, and
medication, all of which are consumed throughout daily activities.
Such objects have a utilitarian nature and require the various
storage jewelry devices to be readily and frequently accessed.
[0009] Various jewelry pieces for storing frequently used objects,
such as make-up, medications, coins, and currency, have been
described in connection with bracelets or jewelry to be worn on the
wrist. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 334,844 to A. V. Briesen
discloses a bracelet having a readily accessible receptacle for
housing coins. U.S. Pat. No. 1,609,481 to McCarthy, et al.
discloses a wrist vanity case having a series of compartments all
accessible through a single top cover plate. U.S. Pat. No.
2,083,880 to E. E. Tourot discloses a bracelet adapted to carry
useful articles; specifically taught therein is a bracelet
appointed to act as a vanity case having a series of compartments.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,502,298 to Benton discloses a bracelet having one
or more concealed chambers in which objects, such as folded paper
money or pills, can be stored. U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,981 to Rodman
discloses a jewelry armband with invisible storage compartments
each having a door and being appointed for the insertion of a
photograph, pills or other medicines, or the like, which are to be
carried. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0022554 to
Davidson, et al. discloses a bracelet having interchangeable
adornments for storing medications, hygiene products, make-up, or
food. These aforementioned storage jewelry devices are specifically
configured to house and carry objects for short-term storage, and
do not provide adequate conditions for long-term storage. That is
to say, these storage jewelry devices generally comprise a single
access entry door that is to be frequently accessed on a daily
basis. Additionally, these devices are not adequate for housing
delicate objects for extended periods of time because the devices
do not provide for an airtight environment, and degradation would
certainly ensue.
[0010] Other jewelry pieces for storing frequently used objects,
such as make-up, medications, coins, and currency, have been
described in connection with specific ring constructions. Many of
the ring storage jewelry pieces utilize unilateral entry mechanisms
that are accessible through lateral movement of a receiving
surface. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 1,130,917 to M. C. Meyer
discloses a memorandum ring including a member beneath a
transparent stone having a memorandum-receiving surface that slides
laterally out from the ring. U.S. Pat. No. 1,752,719 to L. Baum
discloses an improved locket, illustrated as a ring, appointed for
housing cosmetics wherein an access door laterally slides to expose
a receptacle. U.S. Pat. No. 2,223,657 to R. Baden discloses a
finger ring comprising a movable (laterally) plate-like shaped
container concealed within the ring for housing a photograph or
similar object. U.S. Pat. No. 4,989,420 to Reinhold, et al.
discloses a ring with a plurality of hidden internal compartments
for housing articles accessible through a single aperture when the
ring is rotated. Such jewelry pieces are specifically configured to
house and carry objects for short-term storage. They do not provide
adequate conditions for long-term storage. That is to say, these
storage jewelry devices generally comprise a single access entry
door appointed for access on a daily basis. Such devices are not
adequate for housing delicate objects over extended periods of
time. No provision is made therein for an airtight environment, and
degradation tends to ensue.
[0011] Still other storage jewelry devices for particular
application in storing frequently used objects, such as make-up,
medications, coins, and currency, have been taught constructed as
garment attachments, necklaces, and improved hinge devices for
jewelry objects such as rings. U.S. Pat. No. 4,422,306 to Larson
discloses a garment attachment having an opening upon its front
side for providing access to an interior receptacle appointed for
housing coins and other items readily accessible by sliding an
elongated plate cover. U.S. Pat. No. 1,567,021 to Detlefsen, et al.
discloses a combined necklace and game apparatus generally
constructed to form a hollow recess for housing game pieces. U.S.
Pat. No. 902,606 to M. L. Robbins discloses an improvement hinge
appointed for use in the construction of rings (and other jewelry)
having a receptacle and a single hingedly mounted cover. These
aforementioned jewelry pieces comprise a single access entry door
and fail to provide an airtight environment.
[0012] Other storage jewelry devices heretofore disclosed and
utilized provide storage of objects such as photographs and the
like, which are two-dimensional, and do not provide for storage of
three-dimensional objects. Moreover, these storage jewelry devices
do not provide an airtight environment or a dual door construction,
but merely provide a single door construction in accessing the
object, which is exposed to air and moisture. For example, U.S.
Pat. No. 1,333,284 to P. J. Schreiber discloses a finger ring
adapted to accommodate via adhesive pictures, photographs, emblems,
drawings, prints, or the like, that are printed, stamped, or
adhered onto a flexible material of the ring. U.S. Pat. No.
2,731,812 to G. D. Sullivan discloses an ornamental charm having a
housing adapted to hold one or more pictures therein. Both of these
disclosed storage jewelry pieces provide a single access door, and
the recess and closure do not form a sealed chamber, but would be
prone to leakage and environmental elements.
[0013] There are various storage jewelry devices having a single
door access with an airtight construction specifically appointed
for receiving and housing remembrance objects, such as cremation
ashes, hair samples, or the like, of a loved one or pet. However,
these devices are characterized by a unilateral or single access
door construction. As such, they fail to provide for optimal
security of the irreplaceable objects housed therein.
[0014] Even when conventional storage jewelry apparatus provides an
airtight container, the unilateral or single door construction of
such devices falls far short of providing an optimally secure
system. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,866,952 to Hight, et al.
discloses a gas-tight container formed by a plural inter-fitting,
mounding overlapping that defines a hollow chamber the component
parts of which are held together in gas-tight relation by a
resiliently flexible seal. U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2005/0081561 to Eggleston discloses a pendant having two halves
adapted to be hermetically sealed to form a container for carrying
crematory remains, hair samples, or the like, of a loved one or
pet. These storage jewelry devices afford immediate access to the
object carried in the container when the two halves (or two
moundings) are separated. As a result, minimal security is
achieved. The keepsake is immediately exposed to the environment
when the two halves are disengaged, heightening the risk of
loss.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,116 to Sparacino, et al. discloses a
remembrance preserving jewelry apparatus adapted to be configured
in the form of a necklace or bracelet having a permanently sealed,
airtight chamber, with single door access. U.S. Pat. No. 5,950,287
to Cacciatore, et al discloses an apparatus generally including a
base hingedly attached to a transparent cover to form a compartment
for displaying a photograph and housing crematory ashes. Both these
storage jewelry devices provide a single access door. Minimal
security is achieved. Exposure to the environment is immediate upon
opening the single access door, heightening the risk of loosing the
keepsake.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,158,174 to Hereford discloses an apparatus
comprising a minor container having an insertable cap, which is
inserted into the bottom portion of a major container provided with
a major cap. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0045316
to Naor discloses an article of jewelry having a container for
enclosing memorabilia The container is accessed through a top end
mouth opening, which is sealed by way of a member that screws into
the top opening. Neither of these devices includes dual access
doors wherein the receiving chamber's door is fixedly attached to
the device. Rather, such prior art devices merely disclose caps
that can readily become separated from the device through damage
associated with everyday use, causing loss of the keepsake housing
container.
[0017] Notwithstanding the efforts of prior art workers to
construct a keepsake storage jewelry device that securely houses a
remembrance object in an airtight environment, there remains a need
in the art for a keepsake storage jewelry device that securely
houses a remembrance object by providing a dual access door
construction wherein damage to the exterior surface results in
minimal risk to the receptacle housing the keepsake. Further, there
remains a need in the art for a keepsake storage jewelry device
that not only securely houses the objects within a dual access door
apparatus, but also provides an airtight environment so that the
keepsake is not exposed to air contaminants and moisture. An
airtight keepsake storage jewelry device having a dual access door
construction that resists air and moisture penetration, has long
been needed in the art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The present invention provides a keepsake storage jewelry
piece that securely houses a remembrance object in an airtight
environment. A dual access door construction prevents damage to the
exterior surface, minimizing risk of injury to the receptacle
housing the keepsake. Keepsake objects, such DNA-containing
substances, are securely housed within a dual access door
construction. An airtight environment is thereby provided, so that
the keepsake is not exposed to air contaminants and moisture.
[0019] The keepsake storage jewelry of the present invention is
designed to hermetically preserve and securely store remembrances
such as organic remains, including crematory ashes, hair samples or
the like, in a decorative jewelry piece. Generally stated, the
keepsake storage jewelry apparatus includes a first portion having
at least one sidewall member and a bottom member arranged to form a
hollow insert. The first portion further comprises an external door
member appointed to engage with each of the sidewall members to
form closed and open configurations.
[0020] The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus further includes a
receiving vessel fixedly housed within the hollow insert of the
first portion. The receiving vessel further comprises at least one
vessel wall and a vessel bottom arranged to form a chamber
appointed to house one or more remembrance objects therein. An
inner vessel door is fixedly attached by way of hinge means to at
least one of the vessel walls. The inner vessel door is appointed
to engage with each of the vessel walls to seal the receiving
vessel so that the remembrance object is securely housed therein in
an airtight environment.
[0021] Optionally, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus further
comprises an attachment means fixedly attached to the first portion
to form a jewelry piece appointed to be worn by a user. The
attachment means may comprise an attachment loop so that the
jewelry apparatus can be worn on a chain by the user.
Alternatively, the attachment means comprises at least one link so
that a plurality of first portions can be linked together. The
plurality of first portions may be linked together to form a
bracelet, a necklace, a ring, a pendant, or a broach. Further, the
plurality of first portions can be linked together to form a piece
of jewelry adapted to receive at least one first portion so that
the piece of jewelry can be extended.
[0022] Optionally, the external door comprises a decorative
surface. Moreover, the external door may be hingedly attached to
the sidewall member of the first portion by way of a hinge portion.
The external door is thereby adapted to be opened and closed in a
pivoting motion. The external door may further comprise a locking
member adapted to securely lock the external door in the closed
configuration. Additionally, the external door may be composed of a
transparent material.
[0023] The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus's inner vessel door
may be composed of a transparent material so that the remembrance
object housed within the chamber is viewable when the inner vessel
door is in a shut configuration. Alternatively, the inner vessel
door may be composed of a transparent material having magnifying
properties so that the remembrance object housed within the chamber
is viewable in a magnified condition when the inner vessel door is
in the shut configuration. The inner vessel door may further
comprise a vessel gasket member being appointed to form a seal with
each of the vessel sidewalls when the airtight environment is
achieved. The inner vessel door may further comprise a catch to
securely lock the inner vessel door in a closed configuration.
Moreover, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus's external door
may further comprise a seal member being appointed to form a seal
with each of the sidewall members of the first portion so that the
receiving vessel is housed in an airtight environment. The
remembrance object housed within the keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus preferably comprises organic matter from a living person
or animal.
[0024] The present invention also relates to a process for
manufacture of keepsake storage jewelry apparatus for housing one
or more remembrance objects therein. The process includes the first
step of forming a first portion having at least one sidewall member
and a bottom member arranged to form a hollow insert. The second
step includes attaching an external door member to one of the
sidewall members. The third step includes forming a receiving
vessel further comprising at least one vessel wall and a vessel
bottom arranged to form a chamber appointed to house one or more of
the remembrance objects therein. The fourth step includes attaching
an inner vessel door to at least one of the vessel walls, to seal
the receiving vessel so that the remembrance object is securely
housed therein. Lastly, the fifth step includes placing the
receiving vessel within the hollow insert of the first portion in a
fixed manner.
[0025] The present invention also provides a method for sealing one
or more remembrance objects within a keepsake storage jewelry
housing, comprising the steps of: (i) selecting a remembrance
object; (ii) placing the remembrance object in a chamber located
within a receiving vessel comprising at least one vessel wall and
an inner vessel door; (iii) closing the inner vessel door so that
the remembrance object is housed within the chamber of the inner
vessel in an airtight environment; (iv) soldering the inner vessel
door to each of the vessel walls to permanently seal the
remembrance object within the chamber of the receiving vessel in a
highly secure manner; (v) placing the receiving vessel inside a
hollow insert within a first portion, the first portion comprising
sidewall members and an external door member adapted to engage with
each of the sidewall members to form closed and open
configurations; (vi) engaging the external door member so that the
external door member is in the closed configuration; (vii) locking
the external door member in the closed configuration by way of a
locking means; and (viii) attaching the first portion to a second
portion to form a piece of wearable jewelry. Preferably, the method
for sealing objects within a keepsake storage jewelry apparatus is
carried out by a jeweler or other professional craftsman.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0026] The invention will be more fully understood and further
advantages will become apparent when reference is had to the
following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the
invention and the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry Apparatus,
showing the first portion, the receiving vessel fixedly housed
within the first portion, and the inner vessel door, in the open
configuration;
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry Apparatus
attached to a second portion to form a ring, in the closed
configuration; and
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry apparatus,
shown as a bracelet constructed by linking a plurality of first
portions together.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0030] The present invention provides a keepsake storage jewelry
piece having a dual access door construction that securely houses a
remembrance object in an airtight environment. Advantageously, this
dual access door construction minimizes risk of damage and/or loss
of the irreplaceable remembrance object, since damage to the
exterior surface results in minimal risk to the receptacle housing
the keepsake. Further, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus not
only securely houses the objects within a dual access door
apparatus, but also provides an airtight environment so that the
keepsake is not exposed to air contaminants and moisture. The
keepsake storage jewelry is appointed for hermetically preserving
and securely storing remembrances such as organic remains,
including crematory ashes, hair samples or the like, in a
decorative jewelry piece.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry Apparatus,
showing generally at 10 the first portion, the receiving vessel
fixedly housed within the first portion, and the inner vessel door,
in the open configuration. The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus
10 for housing one or more remembrance objects therein includes a
first portion 13 having at least one sidewall member 14 and a
bottom member 15 arranged to form a hollow insert 16. The first
portion 13 further comprises an external door member 19 appointed
to engage with each of the sidewall members 14 to form closed and
open configurations.
[0032] The keepsake storage jewelry 10 apparatus further includes a
receiving vessel 17 fixedly housed within the hollow insert 16 of
the first portion 13. The receiving vessel 17 further comprises at
least one vessel wall 18 and a vessel bottom 20 arranged to form a
chamber 21 appointed to house one or more remembrance objects 22
therein. An inner vessel door 23 is fixedly attached by way of
hinge means 24 to at least one of the vessel walls 18. The inner
vessel door 23 is appointed to engage with each of the vessel walls
18 to seal the receiving vessel 17 so that the remembrance object
16 is securely housed therein in an airtight environment.
Optionally, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus 10 further
comprises an attachment means 25 fixedly attached to the first
portion 13 to form a jewelry piece appointed to be worn by a user
(for example, see FIG. 2).
[0033] Continuing with FIG. 1, optionally, the external door 19
comprises a decorative surface 26. Decorative surface 26 is an
external surface viewable to others when the external door 19 is in
the closed configuration. The decorative surface 26 may comprise a
flat engraved surface, a jewel, or the like. Moreover, the external
door 19 may be hingedly attached to the sidewall member 14 of the
first portion 13 by way of a hinge portion 27 so that the external
door 19 is adapted to be opened and closed in a pivoting motion.
The external door 19 may further comprise a locking member 28
adapted to securely lock the external door 19 in the closed
configuration. Additionally, the external door 19 may be composed
of a transparent material. When the external door 19 is composed of
a transparent material, the inner vessel door 23 is readily
viewable. Inner vessel door 23 may include an inner decorative
surface that is viewable when the external door 19 is composed of a
transparent material.
[0034] Additionally, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus's inner
vessel door 23 may be composed of a transparent material so that
the remembrance object 22 housed within the chamber 21 is viewable
when the inner vessel door 23 is in a shut configuration. The inner
vessel door 23 may be composed of a transparent material having
magnifying properties so that the remembrance object 22 housed
within the chamber 21 is viewable in a magnified condition when the
inner vessel door 23 is in the shut configuration. In this
embodiment, the magnified property of the inner vessel door 23
provides an enlarged or magnified view of the remembrance object
22. When the inner vessel door 23 is composed of a transparent
or/and the magnifying material, the external door 19 can be readily
opened and the remembrance object 22 viewed. When the external door
19 is also composed of the transparent material (which can be
achieved in a number of ways, including utilization of a gem) the
remembrance object 22 is readily viewed without the necessity of
opening the external door 19.
[0035] The inner vessel door 23 may further comprise a vessel
gasket member 30, which forms a seal with each of the vessel
sidewalls 18 when the airtight environment is achieved. The inner
vessel door 23 may further comprise a catch 31 for securely locking
the inner vessel door in a closed configuration. Correspondingly, a
vessel sidewall 18 may have an engaging catch 32 for added security
measures. Moreover, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus's
external door 19 may further comprise a seal member 33 that forms a
seal with each of the sidewall members 14 of the first portion 13,
so that the receiving vessel 17 is housed in an airtight
environment. The remembrance object 22 housed within the keepsake
storage jewelry apparatus 10 preferably comprises organic matter
from a living person or animal.
[0036] The present invention also relates to a process for
manufacture of keepsake storage jewelry apparatus for housing one
or more remembrance objects therein. The process includes the first
step of forming a first portion 13 having at least one sidewall
member 14 and a bottom member 15 arranged to form a hollow insert
16. The second step includes attaching an external door member 19
to one of the sidewall members 14. The third step includes forming
a receiving vessel 17 further comprising at least one vessel wall
18 and a vessel bottom 20 arranged to form a chamber 21 appointed
to house one or more of the remembrance objects 22 therein. The
fourth step includes attaching an inner vessel door 23 to at least
one of the vessel walls 18, which is adapted to seal the receiving
vessel 17 so that the remembrance object 21 is securely housed
therein. Lastly, the fifth step includes placing the receiving
vessel 17 within the hollow insert 16 of the first portion in a
fixed manner.
[0037] The present invention also provides a method for sealing
objects within a keepsake storage jewelry apparatus for housing one
or more remembrance objects therein, comprising the steps of: (i)
selecting a remembrance object 22; (ii) placing the remembrance
object in a chamber 21 located within a receiving vessel 17
comprising at least one vessel wall 18 and being provided with an
inner vessel door 23; (iii) closing the inner vessel door 23 SO
that the remembrance object 22 is housed within the chamber 21 of
the inner vessel 17 in an airtight environment; (iv) soldering the
inner vessel door 23 to each of the vessel walls 18 to permanently
seal the remembrance object 22 within the chamber 21 of the
receiving vessel 17 in a highly secure manner; (v) placing the
receiving vessel 17 inside a hollow insert 16 within a first
portion 13, the first portion 13 comprising sidewall members 14 and
an external door member 19 adapted to engage with each of the
sidewall members 14 to form closed and open configurations; (vi)
engaging the external door member 19 so that the external door
member 19 is in the closed configuration; (vii) locking the
external door member 19 in the closed configuration by way of a
locking means 28; and (viii) attaching the first portion 13 to a
second portion (see FIG. 2) to form a piece of wearable jewelry.
Preferably, the method for sealing objects within a keepsake
storage jewelry apparatus is carried out by a jeweler or other
professional craftsman.
[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry Apparatus 10
attached to a second portion to form a ring, in the closed
configuration, shown generally at 40. Optionally, the keepsake
storage jewelry apparatus 10 further comprises an attachment means
25 fixedly attached to the first portion 13. Herein, the attachment
means 25 is shown located on the sidewalls 14 of first portion 13.
Alternatively, attachment means 25 is located at the bottom 15 of
first portion 13. Attachment means 25 provides for attachment of
first portion 13 to a second portion 41 to form a piece of jewelry
40. Herein, second portion 41 is in the form of a ring. Second
portion 41 can be in the form of a chain, clip, earring stud, or
the like so that various pieces of jewelry can be formed. Such
jewelry pieces may comprise necklaces, lockets, broaches, tie
clips, rings, earrings, and other forms of jewelry. The attachment
means 25 may comprise an attachment loop so that the jewelry
apparatus can be worn on a chain by the user. The attachment means
25 may comprise a soldered or welded portion adapted to fixedly
attach first portion 13 to second portion 41. The wearable jewelry
item can consist of a ring, a necklace, a bracelet, earrings, or a
broach. Where the jewelry is a necklace, the attachment means 25
consists of a loop for receiving a chain, or the like, so that a
pendant is formed. If the jewelry is a bracelet or a necklace, the
attachment means 25 may comprise links that are capable of being
linked in a chain or even linked together to form a chain.
Alternatively, the attachment means 25 comprises at least one link
(see FIG. 3) so that a plurality of first portions 13 can be linked
together.
[0039] Continuing with FIG. 2, receiving vessel 17 is housed within
the first portion 13, each being in the closed configuration. The
receiving vessel 17 has sidewalls 18, and a vessel bottom 20
arranged to form chamber 21. Chamber 21 is a leak-proof chamber.
Chamber 21 of the receiving vessel 17 is adapted to receive and
house small keepsake memorabilia, or remembrance objects 22. The
receiving vessel 17 is further comprised of an inner vessel door 23
fixedly attached to the receiving vessel's 17 sidewalls in order to
seal the chamber 21 so that the keepsake or remembrance objects 22
housed within the receiving vessel 17 is securely and safely
stored, and sealed away from the elements, such as moisture, which
could otherwise cause degradation. External door 19 is removably
attached to the first portion 13 and is further provided with a
decorative surface 26. The decorative surface 26 is adapted to
carry a decorative object, such as a gem, or the like. The external
door 19 is removably attached to at least one of the first sidewall
members 14 by way of hinge portion (27 in FIG. 1) so that the
external door 19 can be opened and closed readily. The external
door 19 further comprises a locking member (28 in FIG. 1) so that
the external door 19 can be securely locked when in the closed
position.
[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates the Keepsake Storage Jewelry apparatus,
shown generally as a bracelet 50 constructed by linking a plurality
of first portions together. The plurality of first portions 13 may
be linked together to form a bracelet 50, a necklace, a ring, a
pendant, or a broach. Further, the plurality of first portions 13
can be linked together to form a piece of jewelry adapted to
receive at least one first portion 13 so that the piece of jewelry
can be extended. The bracelet 50 is constructed by linking together
a plurality of first portions 13 by way of attachment means 25,
constructed as links. In this embodiment, generations of DNA or
remembrance objects 22 can be stored. First portion 13 is attached
to a plurality of first portions 13 by way of attachment means 25
shown as link portions. The attachment means 25 may be constructed
by way of a hinge link to form a series of first portions 13 being
hingedly or pivotally connected to one another. Alternatively, the
first portion 13 can be attached to a second portion to form a ring
having a plurality of first portions 13. The receiving vessel 17 is
fixedly housed within the first portion 13. The decorative surface
26 of the first portion 13 is shown carrying an object, such as a
gem, or the like. The bracelet 50 is shown here with a clasp 51
adapted to receive a hook 52 so that the bracelet can be worn in a
secure manner.
[0041] Advantageously, the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus,
method of use, and process of manufacture, provides a convenient,
decorative means for carrying the memory of a loved one on the
person of a wearer every day by enabling the wearer to store
important objects intimately associated with a loved one, such as a
child, spouse, friend, parent, or pet, in a piece of jewelry. These
important objects intimately associated with the loved one act as
keepsakes, preferably in the nature of DNA, such as a lock of hair,
cremation ashes, a drop of blood, a child's first tooth, or other
cherished DNA containing items. The keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus enables a person to always and forever keep nearby those
special to him or her. The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus can
be made up to form a bracelet, necklace, wristwatch, broach,
earrings, ring, or the like. Links can be added to the jewelry
item, so that the keepsake storage jewelry apparatus can be worn by
a person as the person grows. The keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus provides comfort to the wearer by allowing the wearer to
keep the loved one's DNA close at hand. Advantageously, the
keepsake storage jewelry apparatus can have a plurality of vessels
linked together and adapted to receive a plurality of keepsakes, so
that keepsakes/DNA can be added over time, from generation to
generation.
[0042] The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus provides a safe and
secure environment for housing the cherished keepsake in order to
prevent degradation or damage caused by the environment. This is
achieved due to the construction of the keepsake storage jewelry
apparatus, which provides dual closures (external door member 19
acting in concert with inner vessel door 23). For instance, the
receiving vessel has its own inner vessel door that securely closes
the vessel in a reliable manner. At the same time, the keepsake
storage jewelry apparatus provides for an external door closure to
provide enhanced protection from damage and the elements of the
environment. This aspect is particularly important, since the
jewelry piece is subject to external damage due to daily wear
and/or exposure to water. The dual closures provide an extra
barrier and enhanced security and safety for the cherished item
housed within the receiving vessel. Many times, the cherished item
is of the type that is irreplaceable. For example, where the
cherished item is from a deceased loved one, the item cannot be
replaced, and it is crucial that the item be housed and stored in a
highly secure, sealed environment.
[0043] The keepsake storage jewelry apparatus enables the wearer to
store important keepsakes associated with a loved one, such as a
child, spouse, friend, parent, or pet. These keepsakes are
preferably of organic matter (i.e. DNA in nature), such as a lock
of hair, a child's first tooth, or other small items. The keepsake
storage jewelry apparatus enables a person to always and forever
keep those special to him or her nearby. Advantageously, the
keepsake storage jewelry apparatus can have a plurality of first
portions, each having a receiving vessel fixedly housed therein and
being adapted to be attached together to form a plurality of
keepsakes, so that keepsakes/DNA can be added over time, from
generation to generation.
[0044] Having thus described the invention in rather full detail,
it will be understood that such detail need not be strictly adhered
to, but that additional changes and modifications may suggest
themselves to one skilled in the art, all falling within the scope
of the invention as defined by the subjoined claims.
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