CA2549296A1 - Interchangeable semi-mount ring system and method for selling rings - Google Patents

Abstract

A semi-mount ring system includes a set of semi-mount shanks and a set of semi-mount heads, Each semi-mount shank includes a substantially similar head mounting mechanism. Each semi-mount head includes a stone mounting mechanism, a stone or the like secured within the stone mounting mechanism, and a substantially similar shank mounting mechanism. The head mounting mechanism of the shanks and the shank mounting mechanism of the heads are of a mating form, thereby allowing any semi-mount head to be detachably secured to any semi-mount shank to form a ring that has the appearance of a completed ring. In this fashion, a customer, for example, may select a custom ring and view the ring in its final form before the ring is completed, Thereafter, the selected head and shank may be permanently secured to form the ring.

Description

Jun-02-06 05:26pm From-~IC TET SERVICES 416 868 0613 T-444 P.005/D51 F-64T

IINTERCFIA1~TGEABLiJ SEMI-MpUNT RING S~'STEM AND
METHOD FO'!It SELL)<NG RINGS
RELA');'Eb APPLI A~NS
[0001] This application is based on and claims pziority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/693,154, fled on tune 23, 2005, by Eli Sa~ansky, entitled, ''INTERCI-IANGEABLE SEMI-MOUNT RING," the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVEN'>('IfON
Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates tv semi-mount rings, and in particular, to a ring system that includes semi-mpunt shanks that can be interchangeably connected with semi-mount heads having stones or the like secured therein and to methods for selling nngs.
Description of the Art [0003] A ring, such as an engagezr,~ent ring, may izaclude a shank, a head secured to the shank, and a focal stone, such as a diamond, securedlmounted within the head. In general, the shank is the portion of the zing that fits around one's finger.
The head includes a mechanism, such as a plurality prongs, that holds the focal stone and thereby secures or mounts the stone to the shank.
[0004 Jewelers often sell rings, such as custom engagement rings, by displaying to prospective customers numerous semi-mount shanks of different styles and by separately displaying a variety of individual loose focal stones of different styles (i.c., stones that are not secured to a head or a shank). More specifically, a semi-mount shank is a shank that does not include a focal stone set therein. For example, a semi-mount shank may include an intEgral head secured thereto, the head simply being a set of Jun-OZ-06 05:2tpm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 868 D6t3 T-444 P.OD6/051 F-64T
prongs, for example, inxo which a focal stone may thereaFter be placed and secured.
Alternatively, a semi-mount shank raay be a shank with a gap or opening therein, into W111Ch gap or opening a head and a focal stone may thereafter be secured. Zn general, each of the semi-meant shanks displayed by the jeweler may be of a different style with each shank including, for example, a different decorative pattern etched thereon, and/or one or mare secondary stones secured thereto in various fashions. each of the focal stones displayed by the jeweler may be of a different type, shape, andlor size, far example [0005] By displaying to pmspeetive customers different styles of semi-mount shanks and different varieties of loose focal stones, jewelers allow customers to select a desired shank and a desired stone to form a custom ring. More specifcally, when selling rings in this fashion, a prospective customer traditionally views the different shanks and loose scones and selects a possible desired eombinatian. In order to demonstrate to the customer how the final ring may appear once the stave is mounted within the head and to the shank, the jeweler often thereafter grabs the selected stone with a pair of tweezers and holds the stone over the shank and/or head. A.Iternatively, the jeweler may simply placelrvst the stone atop the head. If the custozzl er is unhappy with the selected combination, the customer may thereafter select a different shank arldlar stone, with the jeweler then repeating the above process. Once the customer is satisfied with the selected combination, the jeweler thereafter mounts the stone within a head and secures die head to the shank.
(0006] In general, displaying and selling rings in the above fashion is advantageous in that a customer is able to select a custom ring and a jewelEr is able tv maintain a lizzzited sized inventory (i.e., the jeweler only needs to maintain a single versian of each shank and a single variation of each stone, for example).
Nonetheless, selling rings in this fashion has several drawbacks. For example, because the selected focal stone is not actually mounted within a head and secured to the selected semi-mount shank, the customer often gets only a crude view of how the final ring may appear once the stone is actually permanently mounted within the head and shank.
Similarly, the customer often has difficulty viewing the ring because tile jeweler often has difficulty holding the focal stone steady in the shank or head. In addition, because the focal stone t00731736.I y Jun-02-06 05:21pm From-MC TET 'SERVICES 416 668 0613 T-444 P.001/051 F-641 is not secured to the shank, the customer is not able to easily handle the ring or place the ring on a finger and thereafter move the ring to get different perspectives of the rind.
[0007] As an alternative to selling rings by displaying to prospective customers different semi-mount shanks and different individual loose focal stones as described above, a jeweler may maintain and display several "ring series". In genez~al, a ring series is a set of finishedlcompleted rings each having the same style shank and with each shank having a different type, shape, andlor size focal stone mounted therein.
Accordingly, a jeweler may maintain several zing series, each series having a different style shank and with each, ring within a series having a different style stone, for ex mple.
The jeweler may display to prospective customers each of the rings withizx each of the series, thereby allowing a customer to select a custom ring. Advantageously, as compared to above, using ring series to sell rings allows the custorr~er to easily see and handle the rings in a completed form.
[0008] Nonetheless, selling custom rings by using ring series has several drawbacks. Specifically, rather than simply maintaining a single semi-mount shank of a given style and several stones o~F different types, shapes, and/or sizes, the jeweler must now maintain a large inventory of finished rings. Tlus inventory may require a substantial investns.ent cost for the jeweler, may be difficult to physically display given limited space, and xnay also create additional work in having to manage the inventory.
SUMMARY
[0409] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a ring that overcomes the above and other disadvantages of the prior art. According to an embodiment of the invention, a semi-mount ring system includes a semi-mount shank and a separate semi-mount head.
The semi-mount shank includes a body and a head mounting mechanism integral with the body. The semi-mount head includes a stone mounting mechanism (e.g., prongs), a focal stone or the tike secured/znounted within the stone mounting mechanism, and a shank mounting mechanism secured to the stone mounting mechanism.
[0010] According to an embodiment of the invention, the head mounting mechanism of the semi-mount shank and the shank mounting mechanism of the semi-rrrount hcad are configured such that the head mounring mechanism may receive the {00731736.1) Jun-D2-D6 05:2tpm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 866 O6T3 T-444 P.OD6/051 F-64t shank mounting azechanism izt order to attach the head to the shank to form a ring. The head mounting mechanism aztd shank mounting mechanism are also configured such that the head may thereafter be removed from the shank, thereby again forming two separate units. According to an embodiment of the invention, the head mounting mechanism and shazxk mounting mechanism are configuz~ed such that when the lead is detachably secured to the shank, the head and shanlt are interconnected in a stable fashion so that the resulting ring may be moved without concern of the head disconnecting from the shank.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the head mounting mechanism and shank mounting xxrechanism are also configured such that when the head is detachably secured to the shank, the ring has a clean and finished appearance as if the ring where in a final form, even though it is not. Accoz~ding to an embodiment of the invention, the semi-mount shank and semi-mount head may also be configured such that when detachabjy secured to form the ring, the shank and head have the appearance of being one continuous piece of metal for example, thereby resulting in a ring that has the stylistic appearance of being a "custom one piece casting". Again, the head mounting mechanism and shank mounting mechanism are also configured such that the bead may thereafter be detached from the shank.
[p011] According to an embodiment of the invention, a retailer may provide or display to prospective customers far example, a plurality of semi-mount shanks of different styles and a plurality of semi-mount heads each with a different focal stone or the like pre-mounted therein andlor of a different style. According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of semi-momt shanks provided or displayed by the retailer has a substantially idex<tical head mounting mechanism, irrespective of how the remainder of the shank is shaped or designed. Similarly, each of the plurality of semi-mount heads provided ar displayed by the retailer has a substantially identical shank mounting mechanism, irrespective of the type, style, and/or size of the stone pre-mourned therein. In addition, the head mounting mechanism and shank mounting mechanism of each of the provided or dispIaycd shanks and heads are preferably of a mating-form. In this way and according to art embodiment of the invention, a retailer may provide or display to prospective customers different semi-mount shanks and different semi-mount heads with different stones mounted therein and allow the customers to interchangeably {04731776.1}

Jun-02-O6 05:T8pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 868 06T3 T-444 P.008/051 F-64t mix and match any of the heads with any of the shanks in order to form any number of different custom rings, each ring having the head detachably secured to the shank and each ring having a clean and finighed appearance.
(00X2] As such and according to an embodiment of the invention, a prospective customer znay view a plurality of displayed semui-mount shanks and semi-tnount heads and select any one of the semi-mount shanks and any one of the semi-mount heads.
Throubh the head mounting mechanism and shank mounting mechanism of the selected shank and head, the head may thereafter be secured to the shank to form a complete ring.
According to an embodiment of the invention, the customer may thereafter hold and view the ring, and move the ring without concern that the head or stone will disconnect from the shank. In addition, according to an embodiment oFthc invention, the ring may have a clean and iinishcd appearance as if the ring where in a final form, even though the ring is technically not finished, allowing the customer to ea.Sily see how the completed ring will appear once completed.
[0013] Assuming the selected Shank andlor head do not meet the customer's preference, the head and shank nnay be detached and a different head and/or shank detachably connected. Such a process may continue until the customer finds a desired combination of a head and a shank. Thereafter and according to an embodiment of the invention, a finished rzng may be formed by soldering, for example, the selected head to the shank.
[0014] Accordingly, the semi-zx~ount ring system of the present invention has the advantage of allowing a retailer, for example, to easily and conveniently show a prospective customer numerous different custom rings. The semi-mount ring system also has the advantage of allowing the customer to easily see how each custom ring will appear once completed. in addition, the present invention also allows a customer to handle and try each ring on a hand to further visualize how the ring will appear, without the jeweler having to hold the stone. In addition, the present invention allows a retailer to sell numerous styles of custom rings while maintaining, if desired, a iixnited sized inventory.
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[0015] Other features and advantages of the presezit invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, which refers to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESC~TION OF THE D WINGS
[OOlb] Figure lA shows a front view of a semi-mount rind system that includes a semi-mount shank and a semi-mount head with a stone mounted therein according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0017] Figure 1B shows a front view of the semi-mount shank and semi-mount head of rigure 1A in an assemble configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0018] Figures 2A-2Q show top arid front views of different semi-mount shanks according to an embodiment invention.
[0019] Figures 3A-3L show top, front, and side views of different semi-mount heads that can be mounted to the semi-mount shanks of Figures 2A-2Q according to an embodiment of the invention.
[002x] Figures ~A, 4B, and 4C show a front view, a top view, and a cross seetioziai Bide view of a semi-mount shank according to azz embodiment of the invention.
[0021] Fibure 5 shows a front view of a semi-mount shank according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0022] Figures 6A, 6N, and 6C show a front view, a side view, and a bottom view of a semi-mount head according to an etnbodiment of the invention.
[0023] Figure 'lA shows a front view of a semi-mousit shank and semi-mount head in an assemble configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0024] Figure 7B shows a front view of a semi-mount shank and semi-mourn head in an assemble configuration according to an embodiment ofthe invention.
[0025] Figure 8 shows a front view of a semi-mount shank arid semi-mount head in an assemble configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.
[002G] Figure 9 shows a cross sectional side view of a semi-mount shank and semi-mount head in an assemble configuration accordinb to an embodiment of the lnventiQn.
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[0027] Figure 10 shows a cross sectional side view of a semi-mount shank and semi-mount head in an assemble configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0028] Figuro 11 shows a cross sectional side view of a semi-mount ring systexla that includes a semi-mount shank and a semi-mount head with a stone mounted therein according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0029] figure 12A shaves a front view ofa semi-mount ring system that includes a semi-mount Shank and a semi-mount head with a stone mounted therein according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0030] Figure 12B shows a top view of the semi-mount shame of Figure 12A
according to an embodiment of the invention.
[0031] Figure I2C shows a front view of the semi-mount shank and semi-mount head of Figure 12A in an assemble configuration accarding to an embodiment ofthe invention.
[0032] Figure 13 shows a plurality of different semi-mount shanks and semi-mount Heads according to an embodiment invention.
DESCR><1PTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0033] Referring to Figure lA, there is illustrated a semi-mount ring system according to an embodiment of the invention. Semi-mount ring system 1 pp includes a semi-mount shark 110 and a separate semi-mount head 130. Semi-rnaunt shank 110 includes a body 112 and a head mounting mechanism 114 ilategral with body 112.
Semi-rnount head 130 includes a stone mounting mechanism 132, such as a plurality of prongs {i.e., two or more prongs), one or more focal stones or the like 134 securedlmounted within stone mounting mechanism 132, and a shank mounting mechanism 136 secured at the base of stone mounting mechanism 132.
[0034] According to an embodiment of the invention, head mounting mechanism 114 of semi-mount shank 110 and shank mounting mechanism 136 of semi-mount head 130 are configured sucli that the head mounting mechanism may receive the shank mounting mechanism in order to attach head 130 to shank 110 to form a ring 102, as shown inn Figure 1B. lead naolmting mechanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism t0073F736.1) Jun-02-O6 05:26pm From-hiC TET SER1~ICES 416 668 O6T3 T-444 P.012/051 F-64i' 136 are also configured such that head 130 may thereafter be removed from shank 110, thereby again forming two separate units, as shown in Figure IA.
[0035] More specifically, head mounting mechanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism 136 are preferably configured such that when head 130 is attached to shank 110, the head and shank are interconnected in a secure arid stable fashiant so that ring 102 may be moved without concern of hood 130 disconnecting from shank 110. For example, the shank I 10 and head 130 naay be secured such that a customer may place ring 102 on a finger and move the ring to view the ring from different perspectives, far example.
Significantly, because stone 134 is securedlmounted within stone mounting mechanism 132 of head 130 as indicated above, such movement may be conducted without a jeweler, for example, having to hold the stone within the head and without concern that the stone may fall from ring I02.
(003G] In addition, head mounting zz~eehanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism 136 are also preferably configured such th~t'when head 130 is attached to shank 110, ring 102 has a clean and finished appearance as if the ring where in a final ~orm ready for delivery to a customer, even though the ring is technically not finished (i.e., even though head 130 is not permanently secured to shank 110).
According to an embodiment of the invention, shank 110 and head 130 may also be configured such that when interconnected to form ring 102, the shank and head have the appearance of being one continuous piece of metal for example, thereby resulting in a ring 102 that has the stylistic appearance of being a "custom one piece casting," as is known in the art. Again, head mounting mechanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism I36 are also preferably conf gored such that head I30 may thereafter be detached from shank 110.
[0037] According to an embodiment of the invention, a jewelry store, department store, vendor at a trade show, etc. (hereinafter collectively referred to as a retailer), may provide or display to prospective customers for example, a plurality of semi-mount shanks 110 of different styles. For example, F b~.ures 2A-2Q each show a top view and a front view of a different style semi-mount shank 110 according to an embodiment of the invention. One skilled in the art will recognize that semi-mount shanks 110 of Figures ?A-2Q are merely examples and other style shanks are possible. ,A.s Shown in these Figures, each of the shanks 110 provided by a retailer may have a different overall shape, [00731736,1) Jun-02-O6 06:29pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 868 06T3 T-444 P.013/061 F-64t may have a different decorative pattern formed on body 112, altd may have one or more secondary stones 115a1115b, for example, of one or more types, sizes, andlor styles secured to body 112. In addition to semi-mount shanks 110, a retailer may also provide or display to prospective customers a plurality of heads 130 each with a different focal stones) 134 or the like pre-mounted therein. )~or example, Figures 3A-3L each show a tap view, a fzant view, and a side view of different heads 130 according to an embodiment of the invezltian. Again, one skilled in the art will recognize that the semi-mount heads 130 of Figures 3A-3L are merely examples and other variations are possible. As shown in these Figures, each of the focal stones 134 secured within each of the heads 130 provided by a retailer may be of a different type, shape (e.g., round, marquise, princess shape, or tear drop) andlor size (e.g., _5 carat, .75 carat, or 1.00 carat).
Semi-mount heads 130 may also include one or more secondary stones.
[0038 According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the plurality of semi-mount shanks 110 provided or displayed by the retailer has a substantially identical head mounting mechanism 114, irrespective of haw the remainder of the shank is shaped or desib ed. Similarly, each of the plurality of semi-mount heads 130 provided or displayed by the retailer has a substantially identical shank mounting mechanism 136, irrespective of the type, style, andlpr size of stone x 34 pre-.mounted therein. In addition, head mounting zzleehanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism 136 of each of the provided or displayed shanks and heads are preferably of a mating-form, as described above_ In this way and accordinb to an embodiment of the invention, a retailer may provide or display to prospective customers different semi-mount shanks and different semi-mount heads with differEnt stones mounted therein and allow the customers to interchangeably mix and match any of the heads with any of the shanks in order to form any number of different custom rings, each ring having the head detachably secured to the shank and Each ring having a clean and finished appearance.
[0039] More specifically, according to an embodiment of the invention, a prospective customer may view a plurality of displayed semi-mount shanks 110 and semi-mount heads 130, each having a focal stone mounted therein, and select any one of the semi-mount shanks and any one of the semi-mount heads. Through head mounting mechanism 114 and shank mounting lxxechanism 136 of the selected shank and head, a X00731736.1) Jun-OZ-O6 D6:Z9pm From-SIC TET SERVICES 416 868 0613 T-444 P.014/061 F-641 jeweler, salesperson, or the like (hereinafter collectively referred to as a jeweler) for example, may thereafter secure the head to the shank to form a complete ring 102, as Shown in figure LB. As described above, the head mounting mechanism 1 I4 and shaxlk mounting mechanism 136 preferably have a form such that the customer may thereafter take ring 102 from the jeweler and hold and view the ring, or place the ring on a finger for example, and move the ring without concern that the head or stone will disconnect from the shank. In addition, the head mounting mechanism and the shank mounting mechanism preferably have a form such that ring 102 has a clean and finished appearance as if the ring where in a final forms, even though the ring is technically not finished, allowing the customer to easily see how the completed ring will appear once completed.
Again, according to an embodiment of the invention, ring 102 tray have the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting.
[0040] Assuming the selected headlstone 134 for example, does not meet the customer's preference and the customer prefers and selects a different headstone, the jeweleF may thereafte;< remove head 130 from shank 110 and replace the removed head with the newly selected head, thereby again fortxaing a ring 102_ Such a process may continue until the customer finds a desired combination of a head 130 and a shank I 10.
Thereafter and according to an embodiment of the invention, the retailer may thereafter form a finished ring by soldering, for example, the head to the shank.
10041] Accordingly, semi-mount ring system 100 of the present invention has the advantage of allowing a retailer to easily and conveniently show a prospective customer numerous different custom rings. Semi-mount ring system 100 also has the advantage of allowing the customer to easily See how each custom ring will appear once completed. In addition, the present invention also allows a customer to handle and try each ring on a hand to Further visualize how the ring will appear, without the jeweler having to hold the stone_ [0042] Reference will now be made in greater detail to a semi-mouztt shank 110 and a semi-mount head 130 according to an embodiment of the invention. Again, it is an object of the present invention to provide numerous shanks I 10 with substantially similar head mounting mechanisms 114, to provide numerous heads 130 with substantially similar shank mounting mechanisms 136, and to be able to interchangeably (Ob73173G.11 I O

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mix and match any vne of the heads with any orAe of the shanks to form numerous different custpm rings.
(0043] Referring now to Figures 4A, 413, and 4C, there is shown a front view, a top view, and a cross sectional side view of a shank 110 according to an embodiment of the invention. As indicated, shank 110 includes a body I 12 and a head mounting mechanism 114. In general and as shown izt Figure 2A-2Q, the overall style of any given shank 1 LU may vary without deviating from the present invention and again, an object of the present invention is to provide numerous shanks of different styles. As an example, the inner surface I 12b of body 112 may be circular or rounded in shape to provide a comfortable fit on one's finder, although any desired shape may be used_ Similarly, the size of body 112 may vary accordi~og to the wearer's Linger size. The outer surface 112a of body 112 may also be substantially circular or rounded in shape although again, any desired shape may be used. The cross dimensional width and height of body 112 may also have any desired dimensions and the width and height need not be uniform across all cross sections of any given body 1 I2_ (0044] The outer surface 1 I2a of body 112 znay have one or more decorative patterns or the like formed thereon, although decorative patterns are not required.
Similarly, one or more secondary stones may be zzlounted at one or more locations around the outer surface 112a of body 112 far example, although such stones are not required.
Any mechanism k~nawn in the art may be used to mount secondary stones to body 112_ When secondary stones are included, they may be of any shape, size, and/or typo (e.g., precious stones, semiprecious stones, pearls, and/or synthetic stones, etc.).
In addition to the above examples, once skilled in the art will recognize that other forms of decoration may also be added to body 112. In general, body 112 may be formed from any Suitable material kxlown in the art including, for example, one or more metals suek~ as gold, silver, platinum, etc.
[0045] Turning to head mounting mechanism 1 I4~ aeeordirlg to an embodiment of the invention, this mechanism includes a bxadge 116. As shown in Figures 4A
and 4B, bridge 116 may be secured to body 112 between walls L 18a and 118b and may extend within the radial circumference of body 112. As shown in Figures 4A-4C, bridge may be substantially rectangular in shape when viewed in cross section, although other {00731736.1 y 11 Jun-D2-06 05:30pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 666 O6T3 T-444 P.D16/051 F-64T
shapes such as an oval, circular, ar triangular shapes may be used, for example.
Assuming bridge 116 has a rectangular shape for description purposes, the bridge may include an outer or top surface 116a, an inner or bottom surface 116b, and two side surfaces 116c and 116d, with these four surfaces collectively forming the length 117a, width 117b, and height 117c of the bridge. Preferably, the length, width, and height of bridge 116 are substantially uniform across di$'erent semi-mount shanks 110 provided by a retailer. In particular and as described below, shank mounting mechanism 136 of head 130 seats over bridge 116 when forming a ring 102. Accordingly, the uniformity of the length, width, azld height of bridge 116 across different semi~mount shanks 110 provides the interchangeability between different heads 130 and shanks x'10.
[0046] As shown in Figures 4A and 4C, bridge 116 may be positioned such that inner surface 11 Gb lies flush with the inner surface 112b of body 112.
Nonetheless, this configuration is not required and the brid ;e may be positioned such that inner surface 116b resides above or extends below surface 112b. In addition, inner surface 116b may be curved along the length thereof to correspond to the curvature of inner surface 112b or may be substantially flat along the lrngth thereof, for example. In general, note that the shape of inner surface 11~6b and the positioxr of inner surface 116b relative to the inner surface i 12b of body 112 may vary between different semi-mount shanks 110 provided by a retailer without affecting the interchangeabiliry between different heads and shanks_ [0047] As for outer surface 116a of bridge 116, this suzface may be curved along the length thereof to correspond to the curvature of inner surface 116b for example, or may be substantially flat for Example. Note That outer surface 1 i 6a and inner surface 116b do not need to have the same shape along the lengths thereof (e.g., one surface may curved while the ether surface may be flat). Again, note that the shape of outer surface 116a may vary between different semi-mount shanks 110 provided by a retailer without affecting the interchangeability between different heads and shanks.
[004$] Referring to Figures 4B and 4C, the width 117b of bridge 116 may havt a dimension that is smaller than the width 118c of walls 11$a/l 18b, although this relative size dimension is not required. In addition, as shown in Figure 4C, bridge 11 b may be positioned so as to be substantially centered left to right within walls 118a and 118b, although again, other relative positioning znay be used.
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[0049] Referring again to I=igure 4B, according to another embodiment of the invention, head mounting mechanism l 14 may also include ar least one opening/hole 120 formed within bridge 116 (while hole 120 is shown as being circular in shape, any shape may be used). Hole 120 may be positioned at the center of outer surface 1 J 6a of bridge 116 for example, although other positions may be used. Assuming this position, hole 120 may extend radially inward from outer surface 1 i 6a of bridge 116 towards iruler surface 116b of the bridge and may extend either partially into the bridge or completely through the bridge to inner surface I 16b. Again, other configurations may be used. As described below, shank mountir~ mechanism 136 of a head 130 may include a pin that is intended to seat within hole 120 when the shank mounting mechanism is seated over bridge l; b of a shank 110. The pin and hole assist in seeurinb the head to the shank.
Accordingly, the size and shape of bole 120 and the position of hole 120 within bridge 116 are preferably substantially uniform across different se~oni-mount shanks 110 provided by a retailer in order to maintain interchangeabiliry between different heads 130 and shanks 110. As indicated, head mounting mechanism 114 tnay include more than one hole 120, in which case sham' mounting mechanism 136 may include more than one pin to seat within respective ones ofthe holes I20.
[Ofl50] ~efen7rig again to bridge 116, one spilled in the art will recognize that while this bridge is described above as being a single unit with a rectangular Shape, bridge 116 may be formed in various other ways and with different shapes without deviating from the present invention. In addition, different shanks 110 provided by a retailer may use different variations and shapes of bridge 116 as long as the differem bridges used by the dififerent shanks have substantially unifoznn dimensions {i.e., substantially the sumo maximum length I 19a, width 117b, and height 117c for example) in order to maintain interchangeability between the different shanks and heads.
[0051] One skilled in tile art will reco~ize that bridge 116 may be seettred directly to body ~1 I2 as shown in Figure 4A for example, and may be integrally molded with body 112 or attachEd to body 112 as a secondary unit, for example.
Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will recognize that bridge 116 array be secured to body 112 in other fashions without deviating from the present invention and different shanks i 10 provided by a retailer may use diFferent variations. For example, referring to Figure 2G, there is a (00731736.1) t j Jun-02-D6 D6:31pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 868 0613 T-444 P.O16/DB1 F-64T
shown a semi-mount shank 110 with two secondary stones 115a and l lSb, each mounted within a respective head 123a and 123b. As shown, heads 123a and 123b arc secured to opposing ends of body 112 and bridge 116 is secured between heads 123a and I23b_ Again, bridbe 116 may be a secondary unit secured to the heads or may be integrally formed with the heads, or some variation thereof, for example.
[00521 In general, bridge 116 may be formed from any suitable zttaterial known in the art including, for example, one or more metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, ete. In addition, bridge 116 may be formed from the same material as body 112 and/or heads 123a and 123b, or zx~,ay be formed from a different material.
[0053] Refen~ing now to walls 118a and 118b, accordinb to an embodiment of the invention and as indicated above, bridge 116 is secured to body 1 I2 between these walls.
rn general, walls 11$a and 11$b may be formed by body 112, as shown Izl Figures 4A-4C
for exarriplc, or may be formed by heads 123a and 123b that secure secondary stones llSa and 115b to body 112, as shown in Figure 2G for example. Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will recognize that walls 118a and 11$b m ay be formed in othez ways without deviating from the present invention.
[OOS4] According to an embodiment of the invention, the tops of walls 11$a and 118b may extend substantially above outer surface 116a of bridge 116, thereby forming a void 124 as shown in Figure 4A, for example. More specifically, walls 118a and L 18b may extend to a height such that once shank mounting mechanism 136 of a head 130 is seated over bridge 116 of a shank x 1 Q to form a ring 102, walls 11$a and 11 Sb extend along the sides of stone mounting mechanusm 132 of head 130, for example. In this way and as desczibed below, shank 110 and head 130 may give the appearance 2is being one continuous piece of metal, thereby resulting in a ring 102 that has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting.
[0055] According to an embodiment of the invention, walls 118a and 11$b have substantially similar shapes and configurations between the different shanks provided by a retailer. In this way, the resulting voids 124 of the different shanks aze substantially uniform in size and shape across the different shanks. Again, this uniformity maintains interchangeability between different heads and shanks. As an example and as shown in Zw figure 4A, walls 118a and I 18b may have a substantially planar shape and may extend at (0073~736.1p Jun-D2-06 05:31pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 666 0613 T-444 P.019/051 F-64T
an angle 11$d upward from bridge 116. Preferably, the planar shape and the angle 118d at which the walls extend upward from bridge 116 may be substantially uniform across the different shanks 110 provided by a retailer so as to provide substantially uniformly shaped voids 124 across the different shanks.
(0056] One skilled in the art will recognize that walls 11 Sa and 118b do not need to extend above bridge 116 as described above. In particular, according to another embodiment of the invention, the tops of walls 118a and 118b may lie only partially above outer surface 116a of bridge 116 for example, or may lie flush with the outer surface 116a of the bridge, as shov~m in Figure 5 for example (i.e., shank 110 may not include wails 118a and 118b and as such, may not include void 124). In addition, one skilled in the art will also recognize that of the different shanks 110 provided by a retailer, some shanks may include walls 11$a and 118b that Form a void 124 while other shanks may not include walls 118a and 11$b that form a void 124. However, as indicated above, when different shanks 110 include walls 118a and 118b, the voids 124 formed therein are preferably substantially uniform in size and shape across the different shanks so as to z~laintain interchan~geability between different heads and shanks.
j0057] Referring now to Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C there is shown a front view, a side view, and a bottom view respectively of a head 130 according to an embodiment of the invention. As iztdicated above, head 130 includes a stone mountinn mechanism 132, a focal stone 134 or the like securedlmountcd within stone mounting mechanism i32, and a shank mounting mechanism 136 secured at the base of stone mounti~ mechanism for example. In general and as shown in Figures 3A-31. for example, focal stone 134 secured within stone rn~aunting mechanism 132 may be of any type, shape, andlor size_ For example, stone 134 may be a precious stone (e.g., a diamond or sapphire), a semiprecious stone (e.g, cubic zirconia), a pearl, or a synthetic stone, etc.
The stone may have a round shape, marquise shape, princess shape, ar tear-drop shape for example, and may be any size, such as .S carat, .75 carat, or 1.00 carat for example.
Again, it is an object of the present invention to provide numerous heads each with a different focal stone 134 mounted therein. According to an embodiment of the invention, a head may also include multiple focal stones and possibly one or more secondary stones.
{00731736.11 1$

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(005$ Stone mounting mechanism 13z may be any mechanism known in the art for securing a stone within a head andlor to a shank. In addition, aceprding to the present invention, the mechatlism used across diif'erent heads 130 provided by a retailer lrlay vary. As an example, stone mounting meclaax~i<sm 132 may be a bezel setting, a channel setting, a tension setting, or a prong setting. Figures 6A-6C show an example prong setting, the prangs having a top end 132a and a bottom end 132b. Stone 134 is mounted within; the top end 132a of prongs 132 in a conventional manner. In general, stone mounting mechanism 132 may be formed from any suitable material knpwn in the art including, for example, one or more metals such a5 gold, silver, platinum, ete.
[0059] As indicated above, one or more shanks i 10 provided by a retailer may include a void 124 formed by walls 118a and 118b, which void preferably has a substantially tlnifarm size and shape across the different shanks. According to an embodiment of the invention, when shanks 110 include void 124, any given head provided by a retailer may have a stone mounting mechanism 132 that is arranged and configured to substantially cozlfarm to sidewalk 1 I8a and 118b and to lie substantially close to and possibly abut sidewalls 118a and I 18b, irrespective of the particular stone 134 mounted therein, thereby consuming void 1,24. In. other words, according to an embodiment of the invention,, the size and shape of stone mounting zzlechanism 132 for any given stone 134 for any given head 130 may be arranged and conf gored to substantially match the size and shape of void 124. As a result of configuring a head 130 and shank 110 in this fashion, when the head and shank are interconnected to form a ring 102, the head and shank tray give the appearance of being one continuous piece of metal, thereby resultinb in a ring 102 that has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting.
(o0so~ For example, refernng to higure 7A them is shown an example head 130 secured to an example shank 110 according to an embodiment of the invention.
As shown in this Figure, stone mounting mechanism 132 of head 130 is configured such that the sides of the stone mounting mechanism that lie adjacent to sidewalls 118a and 11$b have a size and shape so as to iie substantially close to and possibly abut sidewalls 118a and 118b. In this exatnpl~, stone mounting mechanism 132 is a plurality of prangs and walls 11$a and 11$b of void 124 are substantially planar in shape. Accordingly, the pronbs 100731736.1 ) 1 Jun-02-O6 05:3Epm Fraa~-MC TET SERVICES 416 668 06T3 T-444 P.021/051 F-64T
may be configured to be substantially linear in shape so as to conform to and fill void 124 as farmed by wails 118a and 118b. Note that for smaller stones, such as .5 and .75 carat, it may not be possible to configure stone mounting mechanism 132 to suffzciently lie close to and possibly abut sidewalls 118a and 118b in order to fill void 124.
As such, according to an embodiment of the invention, one or more spacers 133a and 133b may be secured to opposing sides of the stone mounting mechanism 132, as shown in Figure 3H
far example, which spacers act as gap fibers to fill void 124, as shown by the assemble ring of Figure 7B, for example. 1'hese spacers may vary in width between different heads 130 depending on the particular stone mounting mechanism 132 being used andlor the particular stone 134 mounted therein. For laxger stones, such a 1.00 carat, such spacers may not be required. One skilled in the art will recognize that other mechanisms may be used to conform stone mounting meehanusm 132 to the size and shape of void 124.
(0061] dne skilled in the art will recognize that when one or more shanks 110 provided by a retailer include void 124, stone mounting mechanism 132 of the heads 130 provided by the retailer do not need to be configured to form the appearance of a custom one piece casting, as described above. For example, according to amother embodiment of the invention, any given head 130 provided by a retailer may have a stone mounting mechanism I32 configured so that when the head is placed on a shank 110, the stone mounting mechanism 132 and stone 134 mounted therein simply ft within the void 1?4.
For example, referring to Figure 8, there is shown a front view of an assembled ring according to embodiment of the invention. Here, shank 110 includes a uniformly shaped void 124 and head 130 includes a stone 134 mounted in a plurality of prongs, for example. As shown, the prongs are shaped to fit within void 124 but do not match the size and shape of void l 24.
[0062] dne skilled in the art will also recognize that of the different heads provided by a retailer, some heads may have a stone mounting mechanism 132 configured to f h void 124, thereby providing the appearance of a one piece casting, and other heads may have a stone mounting mechanism 132 configured to simply fit within void 124.
[0063] Referring now to shank mounting mechanism 136, according to an embodiment ol; the invention, this mechanism includes an inverted channel 140.
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shown in Figures 6A-6C, channel 140 may be substantially rectangular in shape when viewed in cross section, although other shapes such as oval, circular, or triangular shapes may be used, for example. Assuming channel 140 has a rectangular shape for description purposes, the channel may be formed, for example, from a top plate 137 and two side plates 13$ and 139 secured to and extending downward from plate 137. Flates 137, 138, and 139 may be cast as a single integral unit, may be secured together as three separate units, may be formed from a single unit with channel 140 etched therefirom, ete. As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, channel 140 may have a length 140x, width 140b, az~d height 140c. Preferably, length 140a, width 140b, and height 140c of channel 140 are substantially uniform across the different semi-mount heads 130 provided by a retailer.
As described below, the uniformity of the length, width, and height of channel 140 across the diFferent heads 130 maintains the interchangeability between different heads and shanks 110.
[0064] According to an embodiment of the invention, the bottom end 132b of stone mounting mechanism 132 may be secured to any of plates 137, 138, and 139, or some combination thereof, such that channel 140 extends in an opposing direction from the stone mounting mechanism.
[aa6s] In general and according to an embodiment ofthe invention, any given head 130 may be secuzed to any given shank 110 to form a ring 102 by Seating channel 140 of the head over bridge I 16 of the shank. Accordingly, the size azld shape of channel 140 are preferably configured to readily receive bridge 116. In particular, according to an embodiment of the invention, channel 140 and bridge 116 may have substantially similar sizes and shapes, such as rectangular shapes, although again, other shapes such as oval, circular, or triangular shapes may be used. Assuming fvr description purposes that channel 140 and bridge 116 have rectangular shapes of substantially similar sizes, channel 140 may be seated over bridge 1 I6 such that bottom side 137a of plate substantially Lies adjacent to outer surFace 1 I6a of the bridge and such that the inner surfaces 138a and 139a of side plates 138 and 139 substantially lie adjacent to respective ones of side surfaces 116c and 116d of the bridge, for example. In this way, head 130 detachably secures to shank 110.
(00731736.1 ~ 1 g Jun-D2-O6 06:33pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 666 06T3 T-444 P.023/D61 F-64t [0066] Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will readily recognize that the size and shape of channel 140 da not need to specifically conform to the size and shape of bridge I I6 in order fox a head 130 to detachably secure to a shank I 10 as described above. For example, channel 140 may have a rectangular shape and bridge 116 may have a cylindrical or rod-type shape. As one skilled in the art will readily recognize, if the diameter of a rod-shaped bridge conforms with the width 140b and height 140c of the channel for example, the channel will readily receive the bridge and obtain the above described configuration.
[0067] One skilled iz~ the art will also recognize that different heads 130 provided by a retailer may nse different variationslshapes of charunel 140 as long as the different channels used by the different heads have substantially uniform dimensions (i.e., substantially the same rrxaximum length 140a, width 140b, and height I40c fox example) in order to maintain interchangeahility between shanks and heads.
[006$] Referring now to Figures 6B and fiC, according to an embodiment of the invention, shank mounting mechanism 136 may also include at Ieast one pin 142 formed within channel 140, which pin is intended to mate with hole 120 farmed in a bridge 116 of a shank 1 l0, as described above. Specifically, according to this embodiment of the invention, when shank mounting mechanism 136 of a head 130 is configured to include a pin 142 and head mounting mechanism 114 of a shank 110 is oon~gured to include a hole l 20, as channel 140 of the head 130 is inserted over bridge 116 of the shank 110, pin 142 within the channel is intended to engage hole 120 within the bridge. In this way, pin 142 and hole 120 act to further secure the head to the shank. Accordingly, pin 142 is preferably positioned and configured within channel 140 so as to correspond with opening 120 within bridge 116 and this positioning and configuration of pin 142 and hole 120 arc preferably substantially uniform across the different heads 130 and shanks 110 provided by a retailer so as to maintain interchangeability between the different heads and shanks. For example, assuming opening 120 is positioned at the center of outer surface 116a of bridge 115, pin 142 may be positioned at the bottom side 137a of plate 137 at a center position thereof and may extend perpendicularly downward from the plate. In addition, pin 142 may be approximately the same sizelshape as hole 120 so as to too~si~3s.y 19 Jun-02-06 05:33pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 668 O6T3 T-444 P.024/051 F-64T
obtain a snug and friction-type fit and may have a lent h so as to substantially engage hole 120.
[0069] As indicated above, shank mounting mechanism 136 of a head 130 may include more than ozte pin 142 and head mounting mechanism 1 I4 of a shank 110 zz~ay include more than one hole 120. Mere, each of the pins may engage each o;f the holes to further secure the head to the shank.
[0070j rtt gexieral, shank mounting mechanism 136 may be formed from any suitable material known in the art including, fox example, one or more metals such as gold, silver, platinum, etc. In addition, shank mounting mechanism 136 may formed froth the same material or a different material as stone mounting mechanism 132.
[007! j Referring now to Figtue 9, there is shown a cross sectional side view of a head 130 secured to a shank 110 thereby forming an assembled ring 102 according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure 9 may be a side view of an assemble ring as shown in any of Figures 7A, 7B, and 8, for example. As described above, according to an embodiment of the invention, a retailer may provide a plurality of semi-mount shanks 110 with substantially similar head mounting mechanisms 114 and may provide a plurality of semi-mount heads 130 with substantially similar shank mounting mechanisms 136, and the head mounting rtaechanisvns 114 and shank mounting mechanisms 136 may be of a mating configuration. In this way, ring 102 of Figure 9 for example, may be the result of selecting any arse of the plurality of shanks 1 LO and any one of the plurality of heads 1.30 and thereafrer intercotuiecting the selected head and shank.
[0072] As shown in Figure 9, the selected head I30 and shank 110 may be interconnected to form ring 102 by seating channel 140 of the selected head over bridge 116 of the selected shank. Assuzzting for description purposes that channel 140 and bridge 116 each have a rectangular shape as shown in Figure 9, when seating the channel over the bridge the bottom side 137a of plate 137 of the channel may lie adjacent to and possibly abut outer surface l l6a of the bridge and the inner surfaces 13$a and 139a of side plates 13$ and 139 of the channel may lie adjacent to and possibly abut side surfaces 116c and I 16d of the bridge.
[0073) More specifically, according to an embodiment of the inventiozt, the width 140b of channel 140 may be configured to substantially.match the width 117b of bridge {00731736.1}

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116. In this way, the inxler surfaces 138a and 139a o~ sidewalls 138 and 139 of the channel form a snug and friction-type fic against side surfaces 116c and 116d of bridge 116, thereby connecting the selected head I30 and shank 110 in a secure and stable fashion and preventing the head from easily detaching from the shank. In other words, the bridge and channel may be configured to form a friction-type fit such that ring I02 may be moved without concern of head 130 disconnecting from shank i 10.
Nonetheless, bridge 116 and ehanne! 140 also may be configured such that head 130 may be thereafter readily detached from shank 110 when tlxe head and shank are purposely pulled apart.
[Q074] Similarly, according to an embodiment of the invention, length 140a of channel 140 may be configured to substantially match length 117a of bridge 116. 1n this way, plate 137 of the channel may substantially conceal outer surface 116a of the bridge providing the assembled ring 102 with a clean and finished appearance. In addition, height l4pc of ehanne! 140 may be configured to at least match the height 117c of bridge 116 so that sidewalis 138 and 139 of the channel may cover and conceal side surfaces 116c and 116d of the bridge, again, providinb the assembled ring 102 with a clean and finished appearance.
[0f75] As described above, when shank 110 includes walls 118a and 118b, the width 117b of bridge 116 may have a dimension that is smaller than the width 118c of the walls. As is now more readily understood and as shown in figure 9, such a co~guration allows side plates 13$ and 139 of channol 140 to lie substantially within the width 118c of walls 11$alI 18b. Again, such a configuration provides the assembled ring 102 with a clean and finished appearance. Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will recognize that other con~~gtwations are possible, including side plates 138 and 139 of channel 140 lying beyond the width 118c of walls 118a1118b.
[0076] Again, as described above, shank 110 of ring 102 may include a void 124 of a u~uform shape and head 130 may have a stone mounting mechanism 132 of a uniform shape that substantially conforms tv the size and shape of void 124, thereby filling the void, a shown by the assembled ring of Figure 7A, for example. As described above, according to an embodiment of the invention, when a shank and head are configured in this fashion and are interconnected to form a ring 102, the head and shank may have the appearance of being one continuous piece of metal, thereby resulting in a (00731736.1 ) 21 Jun-02-06 05:,34pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 86B 0613 T-444 P.OZ6/051 F-64t ring 102 that has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting.
Nonetheless, as also described above, ofthe various shanks 110 and heads 134 provided by a retailer, the heads and shanks do not need to form the appearance of Figure 7A when interconnected.
For example, a retailer may also provide one or more shanks 110 that do not include a void 124, as shown in p'igure 5. Similarly, a retailer rr~ay provide one or more heads that have a stone mounting mechanism that simply fits within a void 124, as shown in Figure 8 for example.
[Q077] According to an embodiment of the invention, once a desired combination of a head 130 and a shank 110 have been selected, the head ~onay be permanently secured to the shanlc by securing channel 140 to bridge 116 using an epoxy, solder, a precious metal (e.g., gold, silver, or platinum), or the like_ Similarly, if the resulting ring is to have the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece eastiztg, a precious metal such as gold, silver, platinum, or the like may be placed along the seam of void 124 and stone mounting mechanism 132.
[0078] Refernng z~aw to f b~,ure 10, there is shown a cross sectional side view of an assembled ring 102 according to another embodiment of the invention, this embodiment now including the optional pin 142 of shank mounting mechanism 136 and the optional hole 124 of head mounting mechanism 114. Again, Figure 10 may be a side view of an assemble ring as shown in any of Figures 7A, 713, and $, four example.
According to an embodiment of the invention, each of the shanks and heads provided by a retailer may be configured such that channel 144 and bridge 116 form a :friction-type fit, as described above in reference to Figure 9. In addition, each of the heads 130 may have a shank mounting mechanism 136 that includes at least one pin 142 and each of the shanks 110 may include a head mounting mechanism 114 that includes at least one hole I Z0. According to this embodiment, when a given head and shank are configured in this fashion and are interconnected to form rinb 142, pin I42 seats within hole 120, forming a snug or friction-type fit for example, although such a fit is not required. In this way, pin 142 and hole 120 may act to further secure a head to a shank.
[OQ?9] As an altez~ative to the configuration shown in Figure 10, according to another embodiment of the invention pin 142 and hole 120 may act as the primary mechanism that secures a head 130 to a shank 110, For example, each of the shanks and [9D73 t 73G. l j Jun-02-O6 05:~34pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 666 0613 T-444 P.02r/061 F-64T
heads provided by a retailer may be configured such that channel 140 and bridge 116 form a loose fit (rather than a friction-type fit). In addition, oath shank may have a head mounting mechanism 114 that includes at least one hole I20 and each head may have a shank mounting mechanism 136 that includes at least one pin I42, with pin 142 and hole I20 farming a friction-type fit as described abave_ With this co~nfgurarion, pin 142 and hole 120 may act as the primary mechanism that secures a head to a shank. ~rle skilled in the art will recognize that other configuration variations are possible.
[Oa84] Ozre skilled in the art will also recognize that other variations of head mounting mechanism 114 and shank mounting mechanism 136 for detachably securing any one of a plurality of heads 130 to any one of a plurality of shanks I 10 az~e possible without deviating from the present invention. For example, according to another embodiment of the invention, rather than head mounting mechanism 1 I4 having one or more holes 120 within bridge 116 and shank mounting mechanism 136 having one or more pins 142, the pins and holes may be reversed such that the head mounting mechanism includes one or mare pins (extending upward from bridge 116, for example}
and the shank mounting mechanism includes one or more holes farmed within chaxulel 140 (in bottom side 137a of plate 137, for example). According to 'this embodiment of the invention, when channel 140 is seated over bridge 116, the pins) seats within the opening(s), farming a friction-type fit for example. As similarly described above, bridge 116 and channel 140 xnay be configured such that channel 140 forms a friction-type fit with bridge 116. Alternatively, bridge 116 and channel 140 may be configured such that the channel forms a loose fit with the bridge. Again, one skilled in the art will recognize that other variations of pins and holes are possible.
[00$1] Referring now to Figure 11 in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements, there is shown a cross sectional side view o~ a shank 210 and a head 230 of a semi-mount ring system 200 according to another embodiment of the invention.
As compared to semi-mount ring system 100, semi-mount ring system 200 has tile channel and bridge reversed between shank 210 and head 230. Specifically, accordinb to this embodiment of the invention, each of the shatdcs 210 provided by a retailer may have a head mounting mechanism 214 that includes an upstanding channel 240 integral with body I 12. Channel 240 may be substantially similar to channel 140, for example.
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Similarly, each of the heads 230 provided by a retailer may have a shank mounting mechanism 2.36 that includes a bridge 216 secured to stone mounting mechanism 132, for example. Bridge 216 may be substantially similar to bridge 116, far example.
According to this embodiment of the izwention, bridge 216 and channel 240 are configured such that bridge 216 seats within channel 240 thereby forming an assembled ring.
According to an embodiment of the invention, bridge 216 may seat within channel 240 with a fdctian-type fit, for example.
[00$2] According to a further embodiment of the invention and as shown in Figure 11, head mounting mechanism 214 may also include one or more pins 242 formed within channel 240 in an upright orientation for example, and shank mounting mecha;liism 236 may also include one or more holes 2z0 within bridge 216, for example.
Similar to above, pin 242 is intended to seat within hole 220 and may seat with a friction-type fit, for example. Again, the pin and hole may be reversed between bridge 216 and channel 240. As similarly described above, according to an embodiment ofthe invention, bridge 216 and channel 240 may interconnect with a friction-type lzt, in which case pin 242 and hole 220 na~ay act to further secure the head to the shank. According to another embodiment of the invention, bridge 2.16 and channel 240 may interconnect with a loose-type fit, in vrhich case pin 242 and hole 220 may act as the primary meehauism that secures the head to the shank.
[U083] Referring now to figure 12A in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements, there is shown a front view of a shank 310 and head 330 of semi-mount ring systenn 300 according to another embodiment of the invention. Here, shank 310 a>zd head 330 detachably interconnect only through tl~e use of one or mare pins and holes.
Specifically, according to this embodiment of the invention, shank 310 has a head mou>7ting mechanism 314 that includes a bridge 315 secured between walls 11$a and 118b. Bridge 316 may be substantially si><nilar to bridge 116, for example, but may have a width that substantially matches the width of walls 118a1118b, for example, although this relative size dimension is not required. Head mounting mechanism 314 also includes one or more holes, such as hole 320, formed in the top surface 316a of bridge 316, for example, as further shown in b'igure 12B, which is a top view of shank 3 x 0.
Hole 320 may be substantially similar to hole 120 for example. As for head 330, it includes a [00731776.1 j 24 Jun-02-O6 05:35pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 866 0613 T-444 P.029/051 F-64T
stone{s) 134 mounted within a stone mounting mechanism 132, which is secured to a shank mounting mechanism 336 that includes one or more pins, such as piz~ 342 far e~camplc:. Pin 342 extends downward from the bottom end of stone mounting mechanism 132, for example. Pin 342 may be substantially similar to pin 142, for example.
[OU84J As shown, in Figure 12C, according to this embodiment of the invention, pin 342 and hole 320 are configured such chat pin 342 seats within hole 320 to detaehably secure head 330 to shank 310 and to thereby form an assembled ring 302.
Preferably, pin 342 seats within hole 320 with a friction-type fit, thereby canztecting head 330 to shank 310 in a secure and stable fashion and preventing the head from easily detaching from the shank when ring 302 is handled by a customer, for example. As similarly described above, pin 342 and hole 320 are preferably uniform in shape and position across the different shanks and heads provided by a retailer so that the shanks and heads mdy be interchangeably mixed and matched. One skilled in the art will recognize that hale 320 and pin 342 may be reversed such that the hole is formed within head 330 and the pin is integral with bridge 316, fnr example.
[0085] Referring again to Figuze 12A, according to an embodiment of the invention, one or more shanks 310 provided by a retailer ~nnay include a void 124 of a uniform shape, as shown in this Figure. Nonetheless, the retailer may also provide one or more shanks 310 that do not include void 124 or alternatively, may provide a combination of bath types of shanks. As similarly described above, when one or more shanks 310 include void 124, the retailer may also provide one or more heads 330 that have a stone mounting m~chaniszn 132 of a uniform shape that substantially conforms to the size and shape of void 124 in order to produce ring 302 that has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting. Alternatively or in addition, the retailer may also provide one or more heads that have a scone mounting mechanism that simply fits within void 124, as shown in Figure 12C, for example.
[0086] For each of the above described embodiments of the invention, it was noted that the shanks provided by a retailer may include a void 124. For these various embodiments, void 124 is shown in the Figures as having the same general shape. For example, referring to Figure 4A, void I24 is shown as having a substantially linear profile as formed by bridge 116 and planar walls118a and I 1$b. Similarly, as described (n07317JG.1}

Jun-D2-D6 05:35pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 fi6B O6t3 T-444 P.D30/051 F-64t above, the heads provided by a retailer may be configured to a have a shape that conforms to the shape of void 124. For example, referring to Figure 6A, head 130 is shown as also having a substantially linear profile as formed by shank rirounting mechanism 132 and stone mounting mechanism 136. Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will recognize that void 124 and the heads that are eoxrfigured to i=lt therein may have any general shape without deviating from the present invention. For example, void i24 and the head mounting mechanisms configured to fit therein may have a substantially curved configuration throughout, as shown by the example shanks and heads of fiigure 13.
Again, when a head and shank are interconnected to form a ring, the stone mounting mechanism may consume the void so that the ring has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting. Alternatively, the stone mountimg mechanism may simply fit within the void. Again, one skilled in the art will recogni2e that other shapes are possible.
[Op87] Reference will zs,ow be made to a process for selling rings according to an embodiment of the invention. A retailer (which, again, znay be a jewelry store, deparanent stoxe, ar the like) may have on display to prospective customers a plurality of semi-mount shanks afdifferent styles and a plurality of semi-mount heads each having a stone of a different type, shape, andlor size mounted therein, for example.
Aceordinb #o an embodiment of the invention, each of the displayed semi-mount shanks has a substantially identical head mounting mechanism, each of the plurality of semi-mount heads has a substantially identical shank tnouztting mechanism, and the head and shank mounting mechanisms of the displayed semi-mount shanks and semi-mount heads are of a u~ating form such that any of the plurality of heads may be interchangeably connected to any ofthe plurality of shanks. As such, according to an embodiment of the invention each tlxe displayed shanks and heads is of the same semi-mount ring system.
For description purposes, it will be assumed that each of the shanks and heads are of semi-mount ring system 100, although any of the above described ring systems rlnay be used.
[008$] Nonetheless, one skilled in the art will recognize that multiple andlor different semi-mount ring systems may be displayed. For example, of the semi-mount shanks and semi-mount heads displayed, one set of semi-mount shanks and semi-mount heads may use one variation of mating head and shank mounting mechanisms (e.g., tOD731736.1~

Jun-02-O6 05:36pm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 868 O6t3 T-444 P.031/051 F-64t bridge 116 and channel 140 of ring system 100) and another set of semi-mount shanks and semi~mount heads may use a different variation oftnating head and shank mounting mechanisms (e.g., pin 342 and hole 320 of ring system 300), etc. Similarly, ofthe semi-mount shanks and semi-mount heads displayed, one set of shanks and heads may have voids and heads of one shape and another set of shanks and heads may have voids and heads of another shape.
[0089] One skilled in the art will also recognize that of the displayed shanks within a given set, one ox mare of the shanks may include walls I 1$a and 118b to form a void 124 while ant or more other shanks zxtay not include walls 118a and 318b, for example. Similarly, of the displayed heads within a given set, one or more of the heads may be configured such that when attached to one or more of the shanks, the z~esulting ring has the stylistic appearance of a customer one piece casting. Similarly, one or more of the heads may be configured such that when attached to one or more of the shanks, the heads simply fzt within void 124 but do not form the stylistic appearance of a customer one piece casting.
[0090] One skilled in the art will also recognize that a retailer racy display the plurality of shanks and heads in various ways. For example, the retailer may have the shanks and heads displayed in a fixture that is affixed within a showcase-Here, the shanks and heads must be individually removed from the showcase when shown up-close to a prospective customer. Alternatively, the retailer may have the shanks and heads displayed in a portable fixture that resides within a showcase, for example. Here, the retailer may remove fixture from the showcase and place if on a counter for a customer's up-close inspection, for example. Again, one skilled in the art will recognize that other variations are possible. Por description purposes, it will be assumed that the retailer has a fixture that may be placed on a counter top for a customer's inspectioz~_ [DO~Ij Referring now more specifically to a process for selling rings aceordine to an embodiment of the invention, a prospective customer may initially visually inspect the various shanks 110 and heads 130 (again, this is assuming semi-mount ring system 100 is being displayed). Based an the customer's selections or based on suggestions by a jeweler (which, again, may be a jeweler, salesperson, etc_), the jeweler may remove one or more shanks 110 and/or one or more hEads 130 from the fixture and hand the shanks ~ Qp73 t 736.1 ~

Jun-02-D6 06,~36pm From-h~C TET SERVICES 416 868 O6t3 T-444 P.032/061 F-64T
and/or heads to the customer to allow the customer to visually inspect the shanks andlor heads up close. Alternatively, the jeweler may allow the customer to personally remove one or more shanks andlor heads from the fixture.
[4092] Thereafter, the customer may select ar the jeweler relay suggest, for example, any one of the shanks 110 and a~.ny one of the heads 130 as a possible combination for forming a >«ng 102. Thereafter, the jeweler may secuxe the selected head 130 to the selected shank I x 0 through head mounting mechanism 114 arid shank mounting mechanism 13b and hand the resulting ring to the customer.
Alternatively, the jeweler may allow the customer to personally secure the selected head to the selected shank to form ring 102 .
[U093] Next, the customer may handle ring 102 as if the ring were in a finished form, moving ring I02 so as to view the ring from diFFerEnt perspectives. fhe customer may also place ring 102 on a finger to obtain additional perspectives of the ring. Again, as a result of the head rnountinb mechanism and shank mounting mechanism of the present invention, the customer may handle the ring without concern that the head or stone will disconnect from the shank. In addition, laecause ring 102 has a clean and finished appearance, the customer can easily visualize how the ritlg will appear when in its completed and finished form.
[0094] Thereafter, the customer may make a determination as to whether ring meets the customer's desires and preferences, whether the customer does not wish to purchase a ring at this time, or whether the customer would like to see other ring styles.
Assuming the customer wants to see other rings, the customer may place ring 102 aside, for example, so that the ring may be compared tsa other rings. Alternatively, the customer may hand ring 102 back to the jeweler where the jeweler grasps the head 130 and shank 110, for example, and detaches the head from the shank. Alternatively, the customer may detach ehe head from the shank. The jeweler or customer may thereafter place one or both of head 130 and shank x 10 back in the fixhire.
[009] Thereafter, the customer may again select, or the jeweler may suggest, any one of the shanks 110 and any one of the heads 130 as a possible eonrtbination for Forming a new and different ring 102. Note that assuming the head and shatlk of the previously selected ring are detached, the new ring may be the result of pairing the {00731736.1 f 28 Jun-D2-O6 06:3Tpm From-SIC TET SERVICES 416 666 0613 T-444 P.033/O61 F-64T
previously selected head or shank with a different head or shank.
Alternatively, the new ring 102 may be the result of attaching two newly selected head and shank.
(0096] Thereafter, the gxocess may proceed as above where the selected head and shank 110 are secured to form a ring 102, allowing the customer to then inspect the rixig. Note that here, assuming di~'erent heads and shanks are being attached and set aside, a customer may easily handle and inspect several rings at one time to perfonn a comparison, for example.
[Od97] The above process may continue until the customer either decides not to purchase a ring, or the customer selects a desired combination of head 130 and shank 110 that meets the customer's desires and preferences.
[p098] Assuming the customer Selects a desired combination of head 130 and shank 110, the selected head and shank are next permanently secured to form a final ring.
Again, according to an embodiment of the invention, the head may be permanently secured to the shank by securing channel 140 to bridge 116, for example, using an epoxy, solder, a precious metal, such as gold, silver, platinum, or the like.
Similarly, if the resulting ring has the stylistic appearance of a custom one piece casting, a precious txtetal such as gold, silver, platinum, or the like may be placed along the seam of void 124 and stone mounting mechanism 132. According to an embodiment of the invention, the final and finished ring substantially resembles the ring prior to the head 130 and shank 110 being permanently secured. The final ring is thereafter delivered to the customer.
[0099] Note that how the selected combination of head 130 and shank 110 are formed into a ring xnay be performed in several different ways according to different embodiments of the invention. for example, once the customer selects a desired shank 110 and head 130, the retailer may thereafter use the actual selected pieces to form the ring. Alternatively, the jeweler or customer may place the selected head 130 and shank 110 back in the fixture and the retailer may thereafter form the final ring from replicas of the selected head and shank. The replicas of the selected head and shank may be stoclfed pieces maizttained by the retailer. Alternatively, the retailer may fabricate replicas of the head and shank to meet the customer order. Note that the replicates may include a shank mounting mechanism 132 and head mounting mechanism 114, which mechanisms are secured to form the final ring. Alternatively, the replicas of the selected head and shank [t)073 t 736.1) 29 Jun-02-06 05:3Tpm From-MC TET SERVICES 416 B68 0613 T-444 P.034/051 F-64t may not include a shank mounting mechanism 132 and head mounting tx~.echanism 114.
In other words, according to this embodiment of the invention, a retailer may use ring system 100, for example, to display and sell rings and may thereafter use traditional ring fabrication techniques to actually fabricate the ring.
[Q01Q0] According to another embodiment of the invention, the displayed shanks 110 and heads 130 may include only synthetic stones, such as cubic ~irconias.
Here, the process proceeds as described above. Once a shank 110 and head 130 are selected by the customer, the head and shank are returned to the fixture. The retailer may thereafter fabricate the final ring that is delivered to the customer by either using stocked pieces, for example, or fabricating new pieces. The stocked or fabricated head and shank may he replicas ofthe selected head 130 and shank I 10, but may include real stones therein.
[401Ux] According to another embodiment of the invention, the retailer may work with a supplier. Specifically, according to this embodiment of the invention, a supplier may fabricate shanks 110 and heads I30 and provide these pieces to a retailer.
Here, the retailer may select fzom a supplier's catalog, for example, a set of shanks and heads the retailer wishes to display. Alternatively, the supplier may provide the retailer with a standard set of shanks and heads. Thereaf3er, the process proceeds as above with a customer ultimately selecting a desired shank and head, for example. To fabricate the selected riltg, the jeweler may fabricate the ring from the actual head and shank selected by the customer, may fabricate the ring from socked pieces supplied by the supplier, or may use traditional ring fabrication techniques to actually fabricate the ring.
Alternatively, the retailer may contact the suppler and the supplier may provide the assembled ring.
[Op102] Advantageously, the present invention allows a customer to select a custom ring and as itnpoxcant, easily view the ring as the ring will appear in its anal form.
~z~ addition, the present invention allows a jewelerlretailer to sell numerous styles of custom rings while maintaining, if desired, a limited sized inventory.
[00x03] Although the present invention has been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and znodifteations and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is preferred, therefore, that the present {00731736.1 ~ 3~

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invention be limited not by the specific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claiuas_ [00731736,1 E 31

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A semi-mount ring comprising:
a shank having a head mounting mechanism;
a head having a stone mounting mechanism with an upper end and a lower end, a stone secured within the upper end of the stone mounting mechanism, and a shank mounting mechanism secured to the lower end of the stone mounting mechanism;
wherein the head mounting mechanism of the shank and the shank mounting mechanism of the bead are configured such that the head mounting mechanism can receive the shank mounting mechanism to securely attach the head to the shank and are further configured such that the shank mounting mechanism can be removed from the head mounting mechanism to detach the head from the shank.