Abstract: According to one embodiment, a method can comprise: providing a tool that has a first portion that comprises a first material and a second portion that comprises a second material, wherein the second material differs from the first material and the tool is subject to a magnetic field, and wherein the first material and the second material are provided such that the magnetic field is relatively stronger at and adjacent the first portion relative to the magnetic field at and adjacent the second portion; positioning a surface adjacent to the tool so as to be subject to the magnetic field; and disposing magnetizable abrasive particles on the surface, wherein the magnetizable abrasive particles are attracted to an area on the surface adjacent the first portion where the magnetic field is relatively stronger so as to provide for at least one of a desired orientation, placement and alignment of a majority of the magnetizable abrasive particles on the surface.

Abstract: A process for producing gold-based, heterogeneous catalyst systems comprises depositing fine-nanoscale gold onto a nanoparticulate support medium by physical vapor deposition in an oxidizing atmosphere.

Abstract: A process for producing gold-based, heterogeneous catalyst systems comprises depositing fine-nanoscale gold onto a nanoparticulate support medium by physical vapor deposition in an oxidizing atmosphere.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in connecting and protecting first and second ends of an article of jewelry, wherein the apparatus comprises a cylindrical body having a longitudinal bore extending therethrough for passage of a clasp comprised of a loop and a ring member having a latching mechanism slidably fitted thereto to engage a portion of the loop. The cylindrical body is fitted to and tighteningly stretched over and about the clasp to prevent unintentional twisting of the two ends within and about the clasp insofar to alleviate the occurrence of breakage thereat and to prevent entanglement of the clasp with the wearer's hair. The cylindrical body is generally made from a pliable, translucent material to retain the overall aesthetic qualities and appearance of the article of jewelry as it is positioned over and about the clasp.

Abstract: A device for protecting a jewelry clasp generally made part of an article of jewelry, wherein the device comprises a cylindrical body having a longitudinal bore extending therethrough for passage of the clasp generally comprised of a ring member, a latching mechanism and a loop. The cylindrical body is substantially fitted over and about the clasp to prevent unintentional twisting of the jewelry ends within and about the clasp and to prevent entanglement of the clasp with the wearer's hair. The cylindrical body is generally made from a pliable, translucent material to retain the overall aesthetic qualities and appearance of the article of jewelry as it is positioned over and about the clasp.