GB2541748A

GB2541748A - Chains and chain links for use in jewellery

Info

Publication number: GB2541748A
Application number: GB1515402.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Rose Samantha
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-08-28
Filing date: 2015-08-28
Publication date: 2017-03-01
Also published as: GB201515402D0

Abstract

A chain 100 comprising a first link 40 comprising a loop 41; and a second link 40 comprising a loop 41 and a button 44 joined to the loop by a neck 42 extending upwards from the loop; wherein in use, when the second link is engaged with the first link, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation, the neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link to connect the two links together. The first link may also comprise a button joined to the loop by a neck. The chain preferably comprises more than two links, with each link being of substantially the same shape and size. The buttons may be removably coupled to the neck, and may comprise ornamentations. There may be a connecting link 40 in the form of a loop 41 and a toggle 44. The chain may be part of a necklace, bracelet, anklet or earring.

Description

Chains and Chain Links for use in Jewellery

This invention relates primarily, but not exclusively, to jewellery, more particularly to links for use in jewellery chains. In particular, the present invention provides links which can be connected to form jewellery chains for use in charm necklaces, and/or charm bracelets, and/or charm anklets, and/or earrings.

Charm jewellery items, such as charm necklaces, charm bracelets, and/or charm anklets, traditionally comprise a chain formed from a series of permanently connected links. In order to alter the length of the chain, one or more links must be added or removed from the chain. This often requires specialist tools and skills and so a user must generally pay for the chain to be altered by a professional (e.g. a jeweller), which can be inconvenient, time consuming and costly. Charms may then be connected to the chain, typically by soldering or otherwise permanently connecting the charm to the selected link of the chain. This too requires specialist tools and skills and must generally be done by a professional, which again can be inconvenient, time consuming and costly.

Alternatively, some charm jewellery comprises charms which are removably connectable to the links of a chain. For example, the charms may be clipped to the link of a chain or connected via a snap-fit engagement. This allows the user to alter the charms (e.g. to replace old charms with new charms), or change the position of the charms, without requiring specialist tools or skills. However, in practice the clasps or clips can be uncomfortable for the wearer and the removable charms can be easily lost. For example, the mechanism which removably connects the charms may be damaged or weakened over time, causing the charm to fall from the chain. The charm may also be unintentionally removed from the chain during use, e.g. due to accidentally engaging the removal mechanism, e.g. by leaning on the clip. This is particularly undesirable for high quality charms, such as those comprising gemstones or precious metals, which may be very expensive to replace.

It is also known for charm jewellery to comprise one or more charms (e.g. beads) having an aperture through which is threaded an elongate member, such as a fine chain, or a rope or strip of material. This can be uncomfortable as the charms often press against the wearer’s skin. Also, the charms may be free to, at least partially, move along the length of the elongate member which can he irritating or aesthetically unpleasing. Moreover, the length of the elongate memher often cannot he altered. Instead, the user must remove all of the charms from the elongate memher and transfer these to a new elongate memher of a different length. This can he very inconvenient and fiddly.

Commonly, the two ends of the chain or elongate memher used in a charm bracelet, charm necklace and/or charm anklet are connected by a traditional jewellery clasp mechanism. This includes, for example, a clip (such as a lobster clasp), or a snap-fit mechanism, or a pivoting ‘barrel’ clasp that fastens over both ends of the chain or elongate member. These clasp mechanisms can be uncomfortable as they may pinch the wearer’s hair and/or skin during use. Clasps comprising pivoting or moving parts can also be unreliable as they are prone to jamming, e.g. due to foreign bodies, and breaking, for example due to fatigue of the mechanism.

The present invention has been devised with the foregoing in mind.

In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a chain, e.g. a jewellery chain, comprising: a first link comprising a loop; and a second link comprising a loop and a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop; wherein, in use, the loop of the second link is configured such that the loop of the second link can pass at least partially through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link is oriented at an angle to, and rotated about an axis relative to, the orientation of the loop of the first link and such that the loop of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation (e.g. when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other), and wherein the button of the second link is configured such that the button of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link irrespective of the orientation of the loop of the second link relative to the loop of the first link, wherein, is use, when the second link is engaged with the first link, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation (e.g. the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other), the neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link.

When the second link is engaged with the first link, movement of the first link in an upwards and/or downwards direction relative to the second link is constrained by the button of the second link and the loop of the second link acting to limit the extent of movement of the loop of the first link in an upwards and/or downwards direction along the length of the neck of the second link. Thus, some movement of the first link in an upwards and/or downwards direction relative to the second link is permitted along the length of the neck of the second link. This allows the chain formed by the links to be curved (e.g. around a wearer’s wrist, or neck, or ankle) whilst remaining connected. Accordingly, the first link and the second link are connected securely to each other.

In an embodiment, the first link may further comprise a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop.

Advantageously, since the loop of the second link is configured such that the loop of the second link can pass at least partially through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link is oriented at an angle to, and rotated about an axis relative to, the orientation of the loop of the first link and such that the loop of the seeond link cannot pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other, and wherein the button of the second link is configured such that the button of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link irrespective of the orientation of the loop of the second link relative to the loop of the first link, the chain may be readily and reversibly assembled and disassembled by a user.

Furthermore, when the chain is assembled, the first link and the second link may be relatively securely connected to each other. It requires a deliberate action on the part of a user to assemble and/or disassemble the chain. Therefore, the chain may be very unlikely to come undone by accident.

In an embodiment, the chain may comprise any number of links. Each link may comprise a loop and a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop. Adjacent links in the chain may engage with each other as described above, thereby being securely connected to each other.

For instance, a third link may engage with the loop of the second link, and optionally a fourth link may engage with the third link and so on.

The loop of the second link may have substantially the same shape and dimensions as (e.g. be identical to) the loop of the first link. Additionally or alternatively, the loop of the third link may have substantially the same shape and dimensions as (e.g. be identical to) the loop of the second link. In an embodiment, the loops of all of the links within the chain may have substantially the same shape and dimensions as (e.g. be identical to) each other.

In order to connect the first link and the second link to each other, the loop of the second link is rotated about an axis (e.g. a longitudinal axis), and inclined at an angle, relative to the loop of the first link and passed through the loop of the first link. The button of the second link acts to prevent a user pushing the second link completely through the loop of the first link. The second link is then manipulated by the user so that the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other. The neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link. The first link and the second link are then securely connected to one another. This procedure can be reversed in order to disconnect the second link from the first link. The same procedures may be followed to connect and disconnect any adjacent links of the chain, e.g. the first link and the second link or the third link and the second link or the fourth link and the third link.

In some embodiments, the loop of the second link may need to be rotated through an angle of at least 30 degrees, up to or at least 45 degrees, up to or at least 135 degrees, and/or up to or at least 150 degrees, e.g. an angle of about 90 degrees, relative to the loop of the first link in order for the loop of the second link to fit through the loop of the first link.

In an embodiment, the loop of the seeond link may need to be inclined at an angle of at least at least 30 degrees, up to or at least 45 degrees, up to or at least 135 degrees, and/or up to or at least 150 degrees, e.g. an angle of about 90 degrees, relative to the loop of the first link in order for the loop of the second link to fit through the loop of the first link.

The angles of rotation and inclination are determined by the shapes and dimensions of the loops of the links.

The button of the second link prevents the second link from passing completely through the first link, since the button is sized such that it does not fit through the loop at any angle of inclination.

After the loop of the second link has been inserted as far as possible through the loop of the first link, the second link may be twisted or rotated such that it is in substantially the same orientation as (e.g. is substantially parallel to) the first link. The loop of the second link cannot fit back through the loop of the first link in such a position, so the shape of the loops and the shapes and dimensions of the buttons together secure the two links together.

Thus, the present invention provides a chain, in particular a jewellery chain, having a length which can be easily and quickly altered without requiring any tools at all, let alone any specialist tools or skills. To increase the length of the chain a user simply has to manually insert an additional link in the chain using the process described above. To remove a link from the chain the user simply has to reverse the process described above (i.e. twist the link that is to be removed at an angle to the adj acent link and push the loop of the link to be removed through the loop of the adjacent link).

The present invention may be particularly advantageous for use in children’s jewellery as it means that the length of the chain can be easily altered as the child grows by adding additional links to the chain. This eliminates the need to buy a new chain or a new necklace, or bracelet, or anklet, as the child grows.

Moreover, due to the ease in which multiple links can be added or removed, the jewellery chain of the present invention can be easily converted by a user from a necklace to a bracelet or an anklet, or vice versa. This makes the present invention much more versatile than known jewellery chains and also more cost-effective, as there is no need to buy additional chains of different lengths, or matching jewellery. The buttons can be decorative and/or comprise additional ornamentation, for example gemstones. Thus, the buttons of the present invention may be equivalent to charms on a charm necklace or charm bracelet or charm anklet. In an embodiment, each button may comprise, or consist essentially of, a charm.

To alter the charms on the jewellery chain of the present invention the user can simply swap a link of the chain for a link comprising a different button, using the method described above. The order of the buttons can also easily be changed by changing the order of the links in the chain, without requiring any tools or specialist skills. As such, the jewellery chain of the present invention may be much more user-friendly and cost effective than known charm jewellery.

The present invention also provides a jewellery chain having charms (i.e. buttons) which may be permanently attached to the links of the chain. This means that the charms cannot be lost due to accidental removal of the charms (i.e. buttons) from the links. Also, the user does not have to remove all of the charms to alter the length of the jewellery chain as is required with charm jewellery wherein the charms are threaded onto an elongate member. Instead, the user just has to remove or add one or more links to the chain.

The chain may comprise buttons of varying and/or different shape. Thus, the chain may comprise at least two different types of charms. Optionally, one or more of the buttons may be formed of different materials. For example, the buttons may be formed of, or may comprise, silver, and/or gold, and/or platinum, and/or glass, and/or semi -precious or precious gemstones.

The buttons may have any shape, size and dimensions, as long as the button of a given link is configured such that the button of the given link cannot pass through the loop of an adjacent link to which the given link is, or is to be, connected.

Optionally, one or more of the buttons may be shaped like an ellipse, a circle, a sphere, a flower, a butterfly, or another type of animal. In other embodiments, different or varying shapes of button may be provided.

Optionally, some or all of the buttons may be removably coupled to the plurality of links. For example, some or all of the buttons may be coupled to the links using snap-fit attachments. Alternatively the button(s) may be coupled to the links by a screw fitting or using a nut.

One or more of the buttons may be movable, e.g. tillable or rotatable, relative to the link to which it/they is connected. The provision of a movable (e.g. tillable or rotatable) button may provide a more entertaining and/or aesthetically pleasing item of charm jewellery, e.g. a charm bracelet.

The chain may further comprise a connecting link, which may be configured to form the first link in the chain. The connecting link may comprise a loop and a toggle coupled to the loop. The toggle may be configured to be insertable through the loop of the last link in the chain when the toggle is inclined at an angle to the last link. The toggle may be configured such that it cannot pass through the loop of the last link in the chain when the toggle is in its natural or stable position. The toggle may therefore be threaded through the last link of the chain to connect or disconnect the two ends of the chain (e.g. to connect or disconnect the chain around a wearer’s wrist, neck or ankle).

The toggle may be rigidly coupled to, and/or integral to, the loop of the connecting link to prevent the toggle from pivoting or moving relative to the connecting link. As such, when the user inclines the toggle at an angle to the last link in the chain the connecting link is rotated or twisted correspondingly, wherein the connecting link is coupled to the other links in the chain.

The toggle may be removably coupled to the loop of the connecting link.

The toggle may be movable, e.g. rotatable and/or tillable and/or slidable, relative to the loop of the connecting link.

The toggle may be any shape that is configured to pass through the loop of the last link in the chain when the toggle is inclined at a certain angle to the last link in the chain. However, the toggle must be configured to not pass through the loop when the toggle is in its natural or stable position. For example, the toggle may be a disc, a lozenge, or an annulus, or a rod. The toggle may have a length or diameter greater than the maximum width or length of the loop. The angle at which the toggle must be inclined to fit through the loop will depend on the shape and dimensions of both the toggle and the loops of the links.

The natural or stable positon of the toggle may be the position at which the connecting link is aligned with the other links in the chain so that the links, in use, against the wearer’s skin. This may be the position at which the links lie substantially flat against the wearer’s skin, or in the most comfortable position. In the natural positon of the links the buttons (or charms) may face outwards from the wearer’s skin.

Advantageously, the connecting link of the present invention may comprise no moving or pivoting mechanisms. Therefore, the present invention may provide a more comfortable item of jewellery, since it does not comprise a chain clasp that could pinch a wearer’s skin or hair. Another advantage is that the connecting link may be particularly reliable, since it may have no moving components, which may be prone to fatigue or breakage.

In other embodiments, the two ends of the chain of the present invention may be connected by a different type of clasp or fastening means, such as a clip, a snap-fit attachment, a barrel clasp, or a hook.

Optionally, each of the loops of the links may be curved so that, when viewed from the side, each loop is substantially s-shaped or c-shaped in profile. A button may be provided on each loop, e.g. at an end of the loop.

In some embodiments, the loops of the links may be curved such that the links, when in the natural or stable orientation, do not lie flat on an even surface. This shape may be advantageous as, when the chain formed by the links is bent or curved around a wearer’s wrist, or neck or ankle, the links may lie flat on the wearer’s skin. This may be more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

When viewed from above, the loops may have an elongate shape. The loops may have an elongate, curved or curvilinear shape. For instance, the loops may be substantially elliptical, or oval, or teardrop in shape when viewed from above.

The shape of the loops may ensure that the links can be aligned in parallel when connected and/or may minimise the risk of the links getting stuck or jammed when being connected by the user. The shape of the loops may also ensure that the links lie comfortably against a wearer’s skin when the chain is in use (e g. when the chain is curved around a wearer’s wrist, or neck or ankle).

Optionally, one or more of the links may comprise two or more loops. Each loop may be configured to be connected to a separate chain formed by the plurality of links. The two or more loops may be joined by a neck extending upwards from the loops. A button may be coupled to the neck.

Optionally, the chain may comprise a connecting link comprising two or more toggles coupled to the loop of the connecting link. Each toggle may be configured to connect or disconnect two ends of a chain formed by the plurality of links.

The loop of the connecting link may comprise two or more necks extending generally upwards from the loop, wherein a toggle is attached to each neck. Alternatively, a first toggle may be connected to the loop by a neck extending generally upwards from the loop and at least a second toggle may be connected to the neck of the first toggle. Optionally, a second toggle may be connected to the neck of the first toggle by an elongate connecting member. Optionally, three or more toggles may be connected in series, such that each toggle may be connected to the adjacent toggle by an elongate connecting member.

In another embodiment, the chain may comprise a connecting link comprising two or more loops. Each loop may be joined by a neck extending generally upwards from the loops. Optionally, one or two or more toggles may be coupled to the neck.

For example, the chain of the present invention may comprise a link comprising two loops, which may be used to join two strands or chains formed using the links of the present invention. A connecting link comprising two toggles may be coupled at the start of the chain which includes the link comprising two loops. Each toggle of the connecting link may he threaded through the last loop in each of the stands or chains extending from the link comprising two loops to form a continuous chain.

In some emhodiments, a link comprising two loops may he disposed at the centre of a chain formed hy the plurality of links. The two loops of the link disposed at the centre of the chain may he separated hy an angle of up to or more than 45 degrees, up to or more than 90 degrees, and/or up to or more than 180 degrees.

Optionally, a link comprising three loops may he disposed at the centre of a chain formed hy the plurality of links. Each of the three loops of the link disposed at the centre of the chain may he separated hy an angle of up to or more than 20 degrees, up to or more than 45 degrees, up to or more than 90 degrees, and/or up to or more than 180 degrees.

Optionally, one or more of the loops of the link disposed at the centre of the chain may be connected to a chain formed by the plurality of links that is not configured to be connected to a toggle of a connecting link.

For example, the chain of the present invention may have a link comprising two loops disposed at the centre of the chain, each loop being separated by an angle of around 90 degrees. One of the loops of the link disposed at the centre of the chain may be connected to a strand or chain formed by the plurality of links that is not configured to be connected to a toggle of a connecting link. This may allow a chain of links to be suspended from the middle of a main chain of links, e.g. at around 90 degrees to the main chain, when the main chain is connected by one or more toggles to form a continuous chain (e.g. forming a drop necklace).

In other embodiments, one or more chains or strands of links may be suspended from a main chain of links at an off-centre position. Optionally, one or more chains or strands of links may be suspended from at least one of two or more main chains of links. Eor example, the necklace, or bracelet, or anklet may comprise two or more chains of links which are connected by two or more toggles to form continuous chains, wherein one or more of these chains may comprise at least one strand or chain of links suspended therefrom.

Optionally, a connecting link may comprise the first link in a chain suspended from a main chain of links. This may he advantageous as the user could easily attach or detach the suspended chain (i.e. the drop section) from the main chain using the toggle of the connecting link. This may also form a more secure connection between the suspended chain and the main chain, thereby preventing the suspended chain from unintentionally disconnecting from the main chain.

For example, a connecting link may be connected to one of the loops of a link comprising two or more loops. One or more links may then be connected to the connecting link (in the manner described previously) such that the connecting link and the one or more links are suspended from the main chain of links. Optionally, the connecting link may comprise two or more loops, such that two or more chains are suspended from the connecting link.

Optionally, one or more of the links may comprise an aperture extending at least partially through a portion of the link, e.g. a body of the loop of the link. The aperture may be configured to receive a pin or hook suitable for inserting through a body piercing, such as an earring attachment mechanism. This type of link may be referred to as an earring link.

The aperture may extend at least partially through the loop of the link.

The pin or hook suitable for use as an earring attachment mechanism may be permanently or non-removably attached to the link. In some embodiments, the pin or hook may be integral to the link, or integral to the loop of the link, for example, the loop or the link as a whole may be cast or otherwise formed in a single mould.

Optionally, the pin or hook may be removably connected to the link. Thus, one or more of the links may be convertible into an earring by inserting a removable pin or hook into the aperture, wherein the pin or hook may be configured to be inserted through a user’s pierced ear. Optionally, the pin or hook may be removably secured in the aperture of the loop by a snap-fit engagement or by a screw fitting.

The pin or hook (removable or non-removable) may extend from the loop of the link in an opposite direction to the neck of the link (e.g. downwards), wherein the button is joined to the neck. Optionally, the pin or hook may extend from the reverse side of the loop of the link compared to the neck, thus when the pin or hook is inserted through a user’s ear, the button will face outwards from the user’s ear.

Optionally, one or more of the plurality of links may be connected to the earring link to form a chain of links suspended from the earring link (i.e. forming a drop earring), in the same manner as for other jewellery chains. No connecting links may be required in the chain.

Advantageously, the shape of the loop of the links may also ensure that, when a link is converted into an earring, it lies comfortably against a wearer’s skin and/or any connecting links are suspended in parallel from the first link.

Similarly, the link(s) may be converted into jewellery for adorning any other pierced body part, e.g. a nose ring or a belly button ring.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a chain, e.g. a jewellery chain, comprising: a first link comprising a loop; and a second link comprising a loop and a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop; wherein, in use, the button of the second link is configured such that the button of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are both oriented in their stable or natural orientation (e.g. when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other), and such that the button of the second link can pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link is rotated, and/or oriented at an angle to, the loop of the first link, and wherein the loop of the second link is configured such that the loop of the second link cannot pass completely through the loop of the first link irrespective of the orientation of the loop of the second link relative to the loop of the first link, wherein, is use, when the second link is engaged with the first link, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation (e.g. the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other), the neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link.

In the second aspect of the invention it is the button of a link which is configured to be threaded through the loop of the next link in the chain to secure the links together, instead of the loop being threaded through. Therefore, the procedures for connecting and disconnecting a pair of adjacent links are similar to the procedures described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention, but with the button being threaded instead of the loop.

Any optional embodiment of the first aspect of the invention may be equally applicable to the second aspect of the invention, as long as the optional embodiment is technically compatible with the second aspect of the invention.

In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a functional, decorative or ornamental item comprising a chain according to any embodiment of the first or second aspects of the present invention. The item may comprise an item of jewellery such as a necklace, a bracelet, an anklet or an earring.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit of parts comprising one or more links configured to be connected together to form at least a portion of a chain according to any embodiment of the first or second aspect of the invention.

For example, the links of the present invention may be sold as individual items. A customer could then purchase a link having a particular button (or charm) to insert onto an existing jewellery chain.

In another example, a customer may purchase one or more links comprising two or more loops. This would allow the configuration of an existing chain to be altered, such as to comprise multiple strands of chains or one or more suspended chains.

Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise one or more connecting links. For example, the kit of parts may comprise or more connecting links having different shapes or styles of toggle. The different shapes or styles of toggle may be used when converting the chain to a necklace or a bracelet or an anklet. Optionally, the kit may comprise one or more connecting links having different numbers of loops and/or toggles.

In some embodiments, the kit of parts may eomprise one or more pins or hooks suitable for converting one or more of the links into an earring or other item of jewellery to be worn as a piercing.

Optionally, the kit of parts may comprise one or more links (e.g. earring links) comprising a permanent or non-removable pin or hook suitable for inserting through a body piercing.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a link for use in a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2a is an illustration of a perspective view of a connecting link for use in a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2b is an illustration of a side view of the connecting link of Figure 2a;

Figure 2c is an illustration of a top view of the connecting link of Figure 2a;

Figures 3a and 3b show perspective views of a link for use in a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4a shows a perspective view of a section of a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4b shows a side view of the section of the jewellery chain in Figure 4a;

Figure 4c shows a top view of the section of the jewellery chain in Figure 4a;

Figure 5a shows a perspective view of an earring formed from a link of a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5b shows a front view of the earring in Figure 5a; and

Figure 5c shows a side view of the earring in Figure 5a;

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of another emhodiment of an earring formed from a link of a jewellery chain according to the invention;

Figure 7a shows a side view of a section of a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7b shows a perspective view of the section of jewellery chain in Figure 7a;

Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of a top view of a connecting link according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of a top view of a connecting link according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10a is a schematic illustration of a top view of a connecting link according to a further embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 11b is a schematic illustration of a top view of a connecting link according to a further embodiment of the invention.

Figure 1 shows a schematic illustration of a link 10 for use in a jewellery chain according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The link 10 comprises a loop 11 and a button (or charm) 14 joined to the loop 11 by a neck extending upwards from an end of the loop 11.

The button 14 is rigidly coupled to the loop 11 such that it cannot be removed by the user and it does not pivot or move with respect to the loop 11. In some embodiments, the button 14 may be integral to the loop 11, for example the link 10 may be cast in a single mould.

In the example shown in Figure 1, the button 14 is shaped like a flower, however other shapes of button may be provided. Optionally, the button 14 may be comprised of a different material or materials from the loop 11. In some embodiments, the centre of the flower 14 may comprise a gemstone.

The loop 11 has an elongate shape. The loop 11 is curved such that, when viewed from the side, the loop 11 is substantially s-shaped in profile.

Figure 2 shows a schematic illustration of a connecting link 20 according to an embodiment of the invention. The connecting link 20 comprises a loop 21' and a toggle 24' joined to the loop 21' by a neck 22' extending upwards from an end of the loop 21'.

The loop 21' of the connecting link 20 may be substantially similar to the loop used in the other links that form the chain of the invention (e.g. the loop 11 of Figure 1). The connecting link 20 is configured to form the first link in a chain of links according to the present invention, such that the toggle 24' is operable to connect or disconnect the two ends of the chain to form a continuous chain.

For example, if the link 10 in Figure 1 was the last link in the chain attached to the connecting link 20, the toggle 24' is configured such that, when the connecting link 20 is inclined at an angle to the link 10, the toggle 24' may be inserted up through the loop 11. Once the toggle 24' has been inserted up through the loop 11, the connecting link 20 may be twisted and/or rotated such that it returns to its natural position. When the connecting link 20 is in its natural position, the toggle 24' cannot pass through the loop 11. Thus, the toggle 24' may be threaded through the loop 11 to connect the two ends of the chain. The reverse method may be used to disconnect the two ends of a chain.

In this example, toggle 24' is shaped like a disc. However, the toggle may be any shape such that it is configured such that it cannot pass through the loop of an adjacent link in the chain when the connecting link is in its natural position relative to the adjacent link of the chain. The connecting link may be configured such that the toggle can pass through the loop of a link only when the connecting link is rotated and oriented (e.g. inclined) at an angle to the link, e.g. at one or more specific, predetermined angles or at or within a range of angles.

In other embodiments, more than one toggle may be provided on the same loop of the conneeting link (see Figures 8 and 9). The toggle(s) may be integral to the loop, for example the link may be made as a single piece such as by being cast or otherwise formed in a single mould.

Figures 3a and 3b shows a link 30 comprising a first loop 31 and a second loop 33. The first 31 and second 33 loops are connected at a single connection point 32. A button (or charm) 34 is coupled to the first 31 and second 33 loops by a neck 32 extending upwardly from a connection point between the first loop 31 and the second loop 32. In other embodiments, more than two loops may be connected to each other at the connection point from which the neck 32 extends upwardly. Optionally, the button 34 may be replaced by a toggle to form a connecting link having two loops.

The angle of separation A between the first loop 31 and the second loop 33 may be up to or more than 45 degrees, up to or at least 90 degrees, and/or less than or at least 180 degrees. Each of the loops 31, 33 may be connected to a separate chain of links according to the present invention. The link 30 may be disposed at any position in a chain of links. In some embodiments, the link 30 may be disposed at the centre of the chain.

For example, the first loop 31 may be connected to a main chain of links that is connected by a toggle 24' to form a continuous chain. The second loop 33 may be connected to a chain of links that suspends from loop 33 but is not connected by a toggle 24'. In another example, both loops 31 and 33 may be connected to a chain of links wherein each chain may be connected by a toggle 24', such that the continuous chain comprises two strands of links.

Figures 4a to 4c show a section of a jewellery chain 100 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The chain 100 may form part of a necklace, or a bracelet or an anklet.

The chain 100 comprises a plurality of links 40, each link 40 comprising a substantially similar loop 41 and a button 44 coupled to a neck 42 extending upwardly from the loop 41. In Figures 4a to 4c the buttons 44 are integral to the links 40.

Link 40' is a connecting link comprising a toggle 44' joined to the loop 41' of the connecting link 40' by a neck 42'extending upwards from the loop 41'. A free link 40 is connected to the last link 40 in the chain by rotating the free link such that it is rotated and oriented (e.g. inclined) at an angle to the last link in the chain and inserting the loop 41 through the identical loop of the last link. In the example shown in Figures 4a to 4c a link 40 must be rotated to a relative angle of about 90 degrees before it will fit through the loop of another link, however, this is determined by the shape of the loops. After the loop 41 has been inserted, the link 40 is rotated such the link 40 is substantially parallel to the other links in the chain (e.g. the link is rotated back to its natural position).

The buttons 44 of the links 40 are too big to fit through the loops 41 of the links even when the links 40 are rotated and oriented (e.g. inclined) at an angle. Therefore, the button 44 of a given link 40 prevents the given link 40 from passing completely through the preceding link in the chain 100, thereby securing the links 40 together in the chain 100. As such, the links 40 act like hooks, wherein the button, neck and loop together form the hook.

As shown in Figures 4a to 4c the buttons 44 can have different shapes and sizes, so long as the buttons 44 do not pass through the loops 41.

Figures 4a to 4c illustrate how the connecting link 40'couples to an end of a chain formed by the links 40 of the present invention. As shown, the toggle 44' hooks through the last look 40 in a chain of links.

In practice, connecting link 40' could form the first link in a chain of links 40 (see Figures 7a and 7b), such that when toggle 44' is hooked or threaded through the last link 40 in the chain, the chain is continuous.

Figures 5a to 5c show an earring formed from a link 50 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The link 50 comprises a loop 51, wherein loop 51 may be substantially similar to the loop 41 of link 40, and a button 54 coupled to the loop 51 by a neck 52 extending upwardly from the loop 51. Link 50 comprises a pin 56 permanently or non-removably attached to loop 51, wherein pin 56 is suitable to he inserted through a pierced ear (or other body piercing). In other examples, pin 56 may be an earring hook.

In other embodiments, pin 56 may be removably inserted into an aperture in loop 51. For example, pin 56 may be secured in an aperture of loop 51 (not shown) via a snap-fit engagement or via a screw fitting. Consequently, in this embodiment, the user may remove pin 56 from the aperture (e.g. by pulling or unclipping the pin 56) and the link 50 may then be used in a jewellery chain suitable for use in a necklace, or bracelet or anklet, such as the section of chain shown in Figure 4a. The link 50 is then equivalent to link 11, or links 40.

In other embodiments, the pin 56 may be attached (either removably or non-removably) at the end 52 of the loop 51 to which the button 54 is coupled.

Optionally, link 50 may be connected to one or more links, such as link 10 or links 40, using the method described previously before pin 56 is inserted into a user’s ear (or other piercing). Accordingly, link 50 may form part of a drop earring having a chain of links suspended therefrom.

Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of an earring link 60 according to the present invention. Link 60 comprises a loop 61 having a substantially s-shaped profile. A stud 67 is inserted through an aperture extending through the body of the loop 61, wherein a pin 66 suitable for inserting through a body piercing is attached to the stud 67. In the example shown in Figure 6, the head of the stud 67 forms the centre of a first button (or charm) 64, such that the stud 67 secures the first button 64 to the loop 61. In other embodiments, the head of the stud 67 may form the first button 64. A second button 65 is joined to loop 61 by a neck 62 extending from loop 61, such that the first and second buttons 64, 65 extend from the loop 61 in generally the same direction. The second button 65 may be a different shape, and/or size compared to the first button 64.

Optionally, link 60 may be connected to one or more links, such as link 10 or links 40, using the method described previously before pin 66 is inserted into a user’s ear (or other piercing). Accordingly, link 60 may form part of a drop earring having a chain of links suspended therefrom.

Figures 7a and 7h show a section of a jewellery chain 200 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The chain 200 may form part of a necklace, or a bracelet or an anklet.

The buttons (or charms) in Figure 7 include different styles of flowers, butterflies and dragonflies. Other shapes or types of charms may also be used. A connecting link forms the first link in the chain 200 (i.e. the left-most link in Figure 7a). The connecting link comprises a loop 7Γ and a toggle 74' joined to the loop 71' by a neck 72' extending generally upwards from the loop 71'. The remaining links 70 that form the body of the chain each comprise a loop 71, a neck 72 and a button 74 (similar to the links 40 in Figure 4a). Each of the links 70 are connected to the adjacent link as described in connection with Figures 4a to 4c.

To connect the chain 200 around a wearer’s wrist, or neck or ankle (or other body part) the wearer (or assisting person) holds the last link 70 and the connecting link. The toggle 74' is then inclined at an angle (e.g. 90 degrees) to the loop 71 of the last link 70 and the toggle 74' is inserted through the loop 71. The toggle 74' is then twisted or rotated such that it the connecting link returns to its natural or stable position. In this position the toggle 74' does not fit through the loop 71, thus the two ends of the chain 200 are connected.

Figure 8 shows a schematic illustration of a connecting link comprising a first loop 81 and a second loop 83 joined by a first toggle 84. The first toggle may be attached to the loops 81, 83 by a neck extending generally upwards. The angle of separation of the first 81 and second loops 83 may be up to or more than 20 degrees, up to or more than 45 degrees, up to or more than 90 degrees, and/or up to or more than 180 degrees. A second toggle 85 is connected either to the first toggle 84 or to the first and/or second loops 81, 83 by an elongate connecting member 82.

Figure 9 shows a schematic illustration of a connecting link comprising a first loop 91 and a second loop 93. A toggle 95 is joined to the first and second loops 91, 93 hy an elongate connecting memher 92.

The elongate connecting memher 82, 92 may comprise a neck extending generally upwards from the loops. Different lengths and/or shapes of the elongate connecting memher 82, 92 are within the scope of the present invention.

Figure 10a shows a schematic illustration of a connecting link comprising a first loop 101 and a second loop 103, separated hy an angle or around 180 degrees. A toggle 104 is joined to the first and second loops 101, 103 hy a neck (not shown) extending generally upwards from the loops.

In Figure 10b, the first and second loops 101, 103 are separated by an angle of less than 180 degrees. Any angle of separation of the loops is within the scope of the present invention.

While embodiments of the invention have been described in relation to jewellery, it will be appreciated that the invention may also have utility in many functional, decorative or ornamental items other than items of jewellery.

Claims

1. A chain comprising: a first link comprising a loop; and a second link comprising a loop and a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop; wherein, in use, the loop of the second link is configured such that the loop of the second link can pass at least partially through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link is oriented at an angle to, and rotated about an axis relative to, the orientation of the loop of the first link and such that the loop of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation, and wherein the button of the second link is configured such that the button of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link irrespective of the orientation of the loop of the second link relative to the loop of the first link, wherein, is use, when the second link is engaged with the first link, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation, the neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link.

2. A chain according to claim 1, wherein the first link further comprises a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop.

3. A chain according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the loop of the second link has substantially the same shape and dimensions as the loop of the first link.

4. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chain comprises more than two links.

5. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or each button is decorative and/or comprises additional ornamentation.

6. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the buttons is removably coupled to its respective link.

7. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the buttons is movable relative to the link to which it/they is connected.

8. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising a connecting link, the connecting link comprising a loop and a toggle coupled to the loop, wherein the toggle is configured to be insertable through a loop of a link in the chain when the toggle is inclined at an angle to the link, and wherein the toggle is configured such that it cannot pass through the loop of the last link in the chain when the toggle is in its natural or stable position.

9. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the links and/or connecting links comprises two or more loops.

10. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more of the links and/or connecting links comprises a pin or hook suitable for use as an earring attachment mechanism.

11. A chain, e.g. a jewellery chain, comprising: a first link comprising a loop; and a second link comprising a loop and a button joined to the loop by a neck extending upwards from the loop; wherein, in use, the button of the second link is configured such that the button of the second link cannot pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are both oriented in their stable or natural orientation,and such that the button of the second link can pass through the loop of the first link when the loop of the second link is rotated, and/or oriented at an angle to, the loop of the first link, and wherein the loop of the second link is configured such that the loop of the second link cannot pass completely through the loop of the first link irrespective of the orientation of the loop of the second link relative to the loop of the first link, wherein, is use, when the second link is engaged with the first link, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation, the neck of the second link extends through the loop of the first link, and the loop of the first link passes around the neck of the second link between the loop of the second link and the button of the second link.

12. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are each disposed in a stable or natural orientation, the loop of the second link and the loop of the first link are disposed in substantially the same orientation as each other.

13. A chain according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chain is a jewellery chain.

14. A functional, decorative or ornamental item comprising a chain according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. An item according to claim 14, wherein the item is an item of jewellery such as a necklace, a bracelet, an anklet or an earring.

16. A kit of parts comprising one or more links and/or connecting links configured to be connected together to form at least a portion of a chain according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

17. A kit of parts according to claim 16 further comprising one or more pins or hooks suitable for converting one or more of the links into an earring or other item of jewellery to be worn as a piercing.

18. A chain substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings

19. A link for a chain substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

20. An earring substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.