Abstract: Apparatus for automatically applying a decorative element to a workpiece comprises an element applicator configured to apply the decorative element in an application direction at an application location, a moveable support for supporting the workpiece, the support being moveable by translation and/or rotation along and/or about an axis transverse to the application direction, and a control arrangement. The control arrangement is configured to determine, or receive information relating to, an element location at which the decorative element is to be applied to the workpiece, cause relative translation and/or rotation between the support and the decorative element applicator along and/or about an axis transverse to the application direction to align and/or orient the application location with the element location, and cause the decorative element applicator to apply the decorative element at the element location of the workpiece.

Abstract: The invention relates to a decorative element comprising an elongate support body and a multitude of, in particular faceted, gemstones on an adhesive layer on the support body, wherein a minimum position and a maximum position exist for each of the gemstones.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for partially coating a surface of an object, comprising the following steps: (a) optional hydrophobization of the surface of the object; (b) partial application of (b1) a liquid and subsequent application of a powderous or granular substance or (b2) a solution or suspension of said powderous or granular substance in a liquid; (c) drying the surface to form spatially-delimited salt or powder crusts; (d) coating the surface with at least one layer of a metal or a metal compound; and (e) removing the salt or powder crusts that have been produced. The invention also relates to products that have been produced according to the claimed method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a decorative element comprising an elongate support body and a multitude of, in particular faceted, gemstones on an adhesive layer on the support body, wherein a minimum position and a maximum position exist for each of the gemstones.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for partially coating a surface of an object, comprising the following steps: (a) optional hydrophobization of the surface of the object; (b) partial application of (b1) a liquid and subsequent application of a powderous or granular substance or (b2) a solution or suspension of said powderous or granular substance in a liquid; (c) drying the surface to form spatially-delimited salt or powder crusts; (d) coating the surface with at least one layer of a metal or a metal compound; and (e) removing the salt or powder crusts that have been produced. The invention also relates to products that have been produced according to the claimed method.