US 5,515,157 A · Gem viewing and manipulation apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved apparatus for viewing gems that provides a magnified image simultaneously viewable by several individuals, and which allows a customer to manipulate the gem while restricting the customer's access to the gem and without any physical contact with the gem by the customer. The apparatus is comprised of a video image generator including a magnifying lens unit provides a viewing region for placement of a gem. A gem holder comprised of a pair of opposing grasping members pivotally and slidably mounted on a post extending from support structure. The opposing members are configured to grasp a gem, manipulate and reposition the gem in the viewing region as desired for viewing of the gem. A television monitor displays the magnified image of the gem. The device is particularly applicable in the retail sales of jewelry.

Claims5

Dependent claims

A viewing and manipulation apparatus for gems, the apparatus comprising:

a) a support structure with a horizontal base;
b) an electronic video image generator comprised of a image sensor device and a magnifying lens unit, the image generator supported by the support structure and having a viewing region adjacent the lens unit;
c) a gem holder comprised of a grasping means for grasping a gem and a manipulation means, the gem holder connected to the support structure and extending to the viewing region;
d) an image display unit with connection means connecting the unit to the image generator;
and
e) a light source mounted to the base, the light source positioned to direct light at an oblique angle toward the viewing region with respect to the image generator.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Gem viewing and manipulation apparatus

Life of this patent

Gem viewing and manipulation apparatus

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims5