Star-shaped gemstone jewelry arrangements with settings

Abstract

A star-shaped multi-stone setting for receiving five substantially rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in the star-shaped setting. The star-shaped multi-stone setting includes a prong assembly having at least five prong members; ten side rail members connected to the five prong members to form a star-shaped setting; and a central support member having five radially-extending crossbar members attached at a center connecting point. Each of the radially-extending crossbar members having a pair of retaining insert edge members formed thereon; and the radially-extending crossbar members are connected to the side rail members for forming five seating areas within the star-shaped setting. Each of the five seating areas are used for receiving one of the five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein. The five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds have two adjacent side walls with grooves formed therein for engaging each of two adjacent retaining insert edge members of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members for seating each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in each of the five seating areas of the star-shaped setting. Further, each of the five prong members are used for engaging the gemstones or diamonds to keep the gemstones or diamonds seated within each of the five seating areas of the star-shaped setting.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-stone star-shaped setting for holding therein five (5) substantially marquise-shaped gemstones or diamonds to produce the appearance of a five pointed star or a five petal flower. More particularly, this multi-stone star-shaped setting having five gemstones or diamonds therein also gives the appearance that the setting is substantially invisible.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Invisible gemstone settings are well known in the art and refers to a setting for gemstones in which the setting lies beneath the visible surface of the gemstones. Typically, to invisibly set a large number of gemstones, the approach of the prior art has been to notch the gemstones and to mount them in a setting having two or more parallel walls, with metallic projections, for example, prongs or the like, protruding from these walls for engaging the notches. Generally, these walls define channels in which the gemstones are set abutting one another in accordance with the invisible mounting method.

[0003] Invisible gemstone settings for jewelry products suffer from a number of disadvantages. First, casting of a jewelry item with a gemstone region including a recess and walls and preparing T-shaped cross bars are difficult for the jeweler and therefore a costly process. Second, the assembly of the jewelry item requires considerable time of a skilled worker which adds greatly to the overall cost of the jewelry item. And third, the finished jewelry item cannot be readily downsized without disturbing the invisible gemstone setting.

[0004] Therefore, there remains a need for a novel invisible and multiple gemstone star-shaped setting for jewelry ornaments which overcomes the disadvantages of conventional multi-stone and invisible gemstone settings for jewelry items. The multi-stone star-shaped setting would include a star-shaped metal setting for holding five marquise-shaped gemstones in which the combined gemstone aggregate gives an appearance of a five pointed star or a five petal orchid flower. Additionally, the multi-stone star-shaped setting would give the appearance that the round setting (metal) is essentially invisible to the eye of the wearer.

DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART

[0005] Invisible gemstone settings, multi-gemstone settings,jewelry settings, multi-gemstone arrangements and the like having various designs, structures, configurations and functions have been disclosed in the prior art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,539 to OUZOUNIAN discloses an invisible, multiple precious stone setting for mounting two or more rows of round-shaped precious stones. This prior art patent does not disclose the structure and configuration of the star-shaped multi-stone jewelry setting of the present invention.

[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,622,063 to SLOWINSKI discloses a star-shaped precious stone mounting for five (5) gemstones. The mounting is multi-pointed and star-shaped, where each of the precious stones substantially fill the entire star-shaped mounting. This appearance of the stones within the mounting depicts an integral, single stone which is star-shaped. This prior art patent does not teach or disclose the design, configuration and structure of the star-shaped multi-stone jewelry setting having each of the gemstones with grooved side edges for mounting within the star-shaped setting of the present invention.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,017 to VIVAT discloses jewelry items with invisible gemstone settings, wherein the gemstone setting includes at least two walls so as to provide at least one groove. The groove slidably receives one or more rectangularly-shaped precious stones therein. This prior art patent does not disclose the structure and configuration of the star-shaped multi-stone jewelry setting of the present invention.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,123,265 to RAMOT discloses an invisible gemstone setting, wherein the gemstone setting assembly includes one or more gemstones and a setting having a base formed with a plurality of ribs defining one or more sockets of polygonal configuration for receiving the gemstones. This prior art patent does not disclose the structure and configuration of the star-shaped multi-stone jewelry setting of the present invention.

[0009] U.S. Design Pat. No. DES. 389,087 to KATTAN discloses an oval gemstone arrangement in a pave setting. This oval gemstone arrangement includes nine (9) segmented sections for forming this oval-shaped gemstone. This prior art design patent does not disclose or teach the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the present invention using a marquise-cut diamond for each segmented section.

[0010] U. S. Design Pat. No. DES. 392,588 to BACHAR discloses an elliptical gemstone arrangement. This elliptical gemstone arrangement includes four (4) segmented marquise-cut gemstone sections for forming this elliptical-shaped gemstone. This prior art design patent does not disclose or teach the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the present invention using a marquise-cut diamond for each segmented sections.

[0011] U.S. Design Pat. No. DES. 392,589 to BACHAR discloses an oval gemstone arrangement. This oval gemstone arrangement includes four (4) segmented oval-cut gemstone sections for forming this oval-shaped gemstone. This prior art design does not disclose or teach the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the present invention using a marquise-cut diamond for each segmented section.

[0012] U.S. Design Pat. No. DES. 415,062 to WOLF discloses an oval/rectangular-shaped gemstone/jewelry arrangement. This jewelry arrangement includes twelve (12) gemstones for forming this oval/rectangular shaped arrangement. This prior art design patent does not disclose or teach the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the present invention using a marquise diamond for each segmented section.

[0013] U.S. Design Pat. Nos. D 129,185; D 161,730; D 168,620 and D 245,489 all disclose star-shaped jewelry items in the form of a brooch, a pin, earrings and a ring, respectively. None of the above mentioned prior art design patents teach or disclose the design and configuration of the star-shaped multi-stone jewelry item of the present invention.

[0014] None of the aforementioned prior art patents disclose or teach the star-shaped multi-stone setting member of the present invention for receiving therein five (5) marquise cut gemstones or diamonds which gives the appearance of a single star-shaped or a petaled flower gemstone with the setting having an invisible profile.

[0015] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member for holding therein five (5) marquise-cut gemstones or diamonds in which the combined aggregate of the five gemstones or diamonds gives the appearance of a five pointed star or a five petal orchid flower.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member having five marquise-cut gemstones therein which gives the appearance that the setting is substantially invisible at distances greater than 12 inches from the jewelry product.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be varied in size depending upon the total combined carat weight of the five marquise-cut gemstones or diamonds within the setting member.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be made from precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum or palladium for setting precious gemstones including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and the like.

[0019] Another object of the present invention is to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be attached to various jewelry products such as rings, pins, pendants and the like.

[0020] A further object of the present invention is to provide a star-shaped multi-stone setting member having five gemstones or diamonds, thereon that can be produced in an economical manner and is readily affordable by the jewelry consumer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0021] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a star-shaped multi-stone setting for receiving five substantially rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in the star-shaped setting. The star-shaped multi-stone setting includes a prong assembly have at least five prong members; ten side rail members connected to the five prong members to form a star-shaped setting; and a central support member having five radially-extending crossbar members attached at a center connecting point. Each of the radially-extending crossbar members having a pair of retaining insert edge members formed thereon. Also, the radially-extending crossbar members are connected to the side rail members for forming five seating areas within the star-shaped setting. Each of the five seating areas are used for receiving one of five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein. The five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds each having four side walls and four corners, respectively; and each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds having two adjacent side walls with grooves formed therein for engaging each of two adjacent insert retaining edge members of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members for seating each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in each of the five seating areas of the star-shaped setting. Further, each of the five prong members are used for engaging the gemstones or diamonds to keep the gemstones or diamonds seated within each of the five seating areas of the star-shaped setting.

[0022] In an alternate embodiment, the present invention includes a flower-shaped multi-stone setting for receiving five substantially rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in the flower-shaped setting. The flower-shaped multi-stone setting includes a prong assembly having at least five prong members; ten curved side rail members connected to the five prong members to form a flower-shaped setting; and a central support member having five radially-extending crossbar members attached at a center connecting point. Each of the radially-extending crossbar members having a pair of retaining insert edge members formed thereon; and the radially-extending crossbar members are connected to the side rail members for forming five seating areas within to flower-shaped setting. Each of the five seating areas are used for receiving one of the five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein. The five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds each include two side walls, two curved side walls and four corners respectively; and each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds have two adjacent side walls with grooves formed therein for engaging each of two adjacent retaining insert edge members of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members for seating each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in each of the five seating areas of the flower-shaped setting. Further, each of the five prong members are used for engaging the gemstones or diamonds to keep the gemstones or diamonds seated within each of the five seating areas of the flower-shaped setting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon the consideration of the following detailed description of the presently-preferred embodiment when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0024] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstones forming a single star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstones forming a single star-shaped gemstone arrangement within a star-shaped multi-stone setting member;

[0025] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstones formed in a single star-shaped gemstone arrangement;

[0026] FIG. 3 is an exploded top plan view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the cutting angles (&agr;) and (&bgr;) on each of the five marquise-cut gemstones for forming the single star-shaped gemstone arrangement;

[0027] FIG. 3A is a top plan view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement of the first embodiment showing the laser cutting along lines a-a, a′-a′, b-b and b′-b′ at cut angles alpha (&agr;) and beta (&bgr;) of a marquise-cut gemstone to form a rhomboidal-shaped gemstone having four straight-edged side walls thereon;

[0028] FIG. 4 is an exploded top perspective view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstone sections being placed on the plurality of crossbar members of the star-shaped multi-stone setting member;

[0029] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the star-shaped multi-stone setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the plurality of the holding prong members, the frame assembly and the center support assembly having a plurality of radially-extending crossbar members thereon;

[0030] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the star-shaped multi-stone setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the setting connecting bar member, the frame assembly, the center support frame assembly and the prong assembly;

[0031] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the star-shaped multi-stone setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the holding prong members, the frame assembly, and the setting connecting bar member;

[0032] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the star-shaped multi-stone setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the holding prong members, the frame assembly, and the setting connecting bar member;

[0033] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise cut gemstone sections being slidably connected with each of the radially-extending crossbar members of the center support assembly;

[0034] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the first embodiment of the present invention taken along lines 10-10 of FIG. 1 showing one of the crossbar members within the cut grooves of two adjacent marquise-cut gemstone sections;

[0035] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the star-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the first embodiment of the present invention showing the star-shaped multi-stone setting in use as a pendant;

[0036] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing five marquise-cut gemstones forming a single flower-shaped gemstone arrangement within a first alternate flower-shaped multi-stone setting member;

[0037] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstones formed in a single flower-shaped gemstone arrangement;

[0038] FIG. 14 is an exploded top plan view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the cutting angles (&ggr;) on each of the five marquise-cut gemstone sections for forming the single flower-shaped gemstone arrangement;

[0039] FIG. 14A is a top plan view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement of the second embodiment showing the laser cutting along lines c-c and c′-c′ at a cut angle gamma (&ggr;) of a marquise-cut gemstone to form a rhomboidal-shaped gemstone having two straight-edge side walls thereon;

[0040] FIG. 15 is an exploded top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstone sections being placed on the plurality of crossbar members of the first alternate flower-shaped multi-stone setting member;

[0041] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the plurality of the holding prong members, the frame assembly and the center support assembly having a plurality of radially-extending crossbar members thereon;

[0042] FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the setting connecting bar member, the frame assembly, the center support assembly and the prong assembly;

[0043] FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the holding prong members, the frame assembly and the setting connecting bar member;

[0044] FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the holding prong members, the frame assembly, and the setting connecting bar member;

[0045] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the five marquise-cut gemstone sections being sidably connected with each of the radially-extending crossbar members of the center support frame assembly;

[0046] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention taken along lines 21-21 of FIG. 12 showing the center crossbar member within the cut grooves of the two gemstone sections;

[0047] FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the flower-shaped multi-stone setting in use as a pin or brooch; and

[0048] FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of the flower-shaped gemstone arrangement and setting of the second embodiment of the present invention showing the flower-shaped multi-stone setting in use as an earring.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OVERVIEW

[0049] The multi-stone star-shaped settings 10 and 200 and their component parts of the first and second embodiments of the present invention for forming gemstone or diamond arrangements 20 and 220 within each of those star-shaped and flower-shaped settings, are represented in detail by FIGS. 1 through 23 of the patent drawings. The multi-stone star-shaped setting 10 of the first embodiment are used for holding five substantially rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 within the star-shaped setting 10, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 of the drawings. The multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 of the second embodiment are used for holding five substantially rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 within the flower-shaped setting 200, as shown in FIGS. 12, 14 and 16 of the drawings.

[0050] Each of the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 for the first embodiment 10 include four side walls 22a and 22d, 24a to 24d, 26a to 26d, 28a to 28d and 30a to 30d, respectively. Also, each of the gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 include an outer apex corner 22e, 24e, 26e, 28e and 30e; an inner apex corner 22f, 24f, 26f, 28f and 30f; an third outer corner 22g, 24g, 26g, 28g and 30g; and a fourth outer corner 22h, 24h, 26h, 28h and 30h, respectively, as shown in FIG. 3 of the drawings. Each of the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 started as marquise-shaped gemstones or diamonds prior to the laser cutting of each curved outer wall. For example, gemstone or diamond 22 M having four curved outer walls 22w, 22x, 22y and 22z, as shown in FIG. 3A, are cut along a specific angle alpha (&agr;) and specific angle (&bgr;) by a laser apparatus (not shown) to form straight-edged outer side walls 22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d, respectively. Straight-edged outer side walls 22a and 22b represent an angle alpha (&agr;) cut of 36° degrees along lines a-a and a′-a′, and straight-edged outer side walls 22c and 22d represent an angle beta (&bgr;) cut of 72° degrees along lines b-b and b′-b′, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 3A of the drawings. Further, each of the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 include grooved slots 22j and 22k, 24j and 24k, 26j and 26k, 28j and 28k, and 30j and 30k within adjacent side walls 22c and 22d, 24c and 24d, 26c and 26d, 28c and 28d, and 30c and 30d, respectively, such that the grooved slots 22j, 22k, 24j, 24k, 26j, 26k, 28j, 28k, and 30j and 30k are used to receive the first and second insert means 86, 88, 96, 98, 106, 108, 116, 118, 126 and 128 of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth radially-extending crossbar members 82, 93, 102, 112 and 122 for nesting and seating within the seating areas 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65 of gemstones 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30, respectively, of the multi-stone star-shaped setting 10 of the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 9 of the drawings.

[0051] Each of the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 for the second embodiment 200 include two curved side walls 222a and 222b, 224a and 224b, 226a and 226b, 228a and 228b, and 230a and 230b, respectively; and two straight-edged side walls 222c and 222d, 224c and 224d, 226c and 226d, 228c and 228d, and 230c and 230d, respectively. Also, each of the gemstones or diamonds 222,224,226,228 and 230 include an outer apex corner 222e, 224e, 226e, 228e and 230e; an inner apex corner 222f, 224f, 226f, 228f and 230f; a third outer corner 222g, 224g, 226g, 228g and 230g; and a fourth outer corner 222h, 224h, 226h, 228h and 230h, respectively, as shown in FIG. 14 of the drawings. Each of the gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 started as marquise-shaped gemstones or diamonds prior to the laser cutting of two curved outer walls. For example, gemstone or diamond 222M having four curved outer walls 222a, 222b, 222y, 222z, as shown in FIG. 14A, are cut along a specific angle gamma (&ggr;) by a laser apparatus (not shown) to form two adjacent straight-edged side walls 222c and 222d from the curved outer walls 222y and 222z, respectively, of marquise-cut gemstone or diamond 222M. Straight-edged outer side walls 222c and 222d represent an angle gamma (&ggr;) cut of 72° degrees along lines c-c and c′-c′, as depicted in FIGS. 14 and 14A of the drawings. Further, each of the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 include grooved slots 222j and 222k, 224j and 224k, and 226j and 226k, 228j and 228k, and 230j and 230k within adjacent side walls 222c and 222d, 224c and 224d, 226c and 226d, 228c and 228d, and 230c and 230d, respectively, such that the grooved slots 222j, 222k, 224j, 224k, 226j, 226k, 228j, 228k, 230j and 230k are used to receive the first and second insert means 86, 88, 96, 98, 106, 108, 116, 118, 126 and 128 of the first, second, third fourth and fifth radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 for the nesting and seating within the seating areas 261, 262, 263, 264 and 265, respectively, of the multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 of the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 20 of the drawings.

[0052] The second embodiment 200 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting is similar to the first embodiment of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10 as the prong assembly 70, the center support member assembly 80 having five radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 thereon and the setting connecting bar member 132 are exactly the same. The configuration and design of the frame assembly 240, as well as the design and configuration of the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 are different (gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 are cut differently than the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30, as depicted in FIGS. 3A and 14A of the drawings). Additionally, the design and configuration of the seating areas 261, 262, 263, 264 and 265 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200 are different than the seating areas 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10, for nesting and receiving gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230, versus for nesting and receiving gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 within the corresponding seating areas 261 to 265 and 61 to 65, respectively, therein, as depicted in FIGS. 4, 5, 15 and 16 of the drawings.

[0053] The multi-stone star shaped setting 10 of the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 11 of the patent drawings, includes a frame assembly 40 having a plurality of (ten) side rail members 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49 and 50 thereon, a prong assembly 70 having five prong holding members 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 attached thereto, a center support member assembly 80 having five radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130, and a setting connecting bar member 132.

[0054] The multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 of the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 12 through 22 of the patent drawings, include a frame assembly 240 having a plurality of (ten) curved side rail members 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 248, 249 and 250 thereon, a prong assembly 70 having five prong holding members 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 attached thereto, a center support member assembly 80 having five radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130 and a setting connecting bar member 132.

[0055] These multi-stone settings 10 and 200 having gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 therein or gemstones or diamonds 222 and 230 therein can be used in making of such jewelry products like rings, pendants 12, brooches, pins 14 and necklaces, etc, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 22 of the drawings. Also, the multi-stone settings 10 and 200 can be made of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, or other precious metals. The multi-stone settings 10 and 200 can also be made into different size settings depending upon the size (carat weight) of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 being mounted therein, or the gemstones or diamonds 222 and 230 being mounted therein. The total carat weight for the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 and gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 typically are in the range of 0.36 carats to 4.0 carats per multi-stone setting 10 or 200. Additionally, other types of gemstones or such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires can be used for the multi-stone settings 10 or 200 of the present invention.

First Embodiment 10

[0056] The multi-stone star-shaped setting 10 and its component parts of the first embodiment of the present invention are represented in detail by FIGS. 1 through 11 of the patent drawings. The multi-stone star-shaped setting 10, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, is used for holding in place five (5) substantially rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 in which to form a star-shaped jewelry arrangement 20. The multi-stone star-shaped setting 10 includes a frame assembly 40 having ten (10) straight-edged side rail members 41 to 50 attached thereto, a prong assembly 70 having five (5) prong holding members 71 to 75 attached thereto, a center support member assembly 80 having five (5) radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130, and a setting connecting bar member 132.

[0057] The frame assembly 40, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 8 of the drawings includes a first side rail member 41, a second side rail member 42, a third side rail member 43, a fourth side rail member 44, a fifth side rail member 45, a sixth side rail member 46, a seventh side rail member 47, an eighth side rail member 48, and ninth side rail member 49 and a tenth side rail member 50. The frame assembly 40 also includes outer apex corners 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55 formed by the straight-edged side rail members 41 and 42, 43 and 44, 45 and 46, 47 and 48, and 49 and 50, respectively. These outer apex corners 51 to 55 represent the outer tips of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10, as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 6 of the drawings. The frame assembly 40 further includes inner V-shaped corners 56, 57, 58, 59 and 60 formed by the straight-edged side rail members 42 and 43, 44 and 45, 46 and 47, 48 and 49, and 50 and 41, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 of the drawings.

[0058] The prong assembly 70, as shown in FIGS. 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8 of the drawings, includes a first prong holding member 71, a second prong holding member 72, a third prong holding member 73, a fourth prong holding member 74 and a fifth prong holding member 75. Prong holding members 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 include upper and lower ends 71a, 71b, 72a, 72b, 73a, 73b, 74a, 74b, 75a and 75b, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 of the drawings. Each of the prong holding members 71 to 75 at their respective lower ends 71b to 75b of prong assembly 70 are integrally connected to each of the outer apex corners 51 to 55 of frame assembly 40, respectively, as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 6 of the drawings. Upper end 71a of prong holding member 71 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 22e of gemstone or diamond 22. Upper end 72a of prong holding member 72 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 24e of gemstone or diamond 24. Upper end 73a of prong holding member 73 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 26e of gemstone or diamond 26. Upper end 74a of prong holding member 74 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 28e of gemstone or diamond 28. Upper end 75a of prong holding member 75 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 30e of gemstone or diamond 30. Thereby, securing all of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 within each of the seating areas 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65, respectively, of the multi-stone star-shaped setting 10 of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4 of the drawings.

[0059] The center support member assembly 80, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 9 of the drawings, includes five (5) radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130, respectively, and being attached at their respective outer ends 84, 94, 104, 114 and 124 to each of the inner V-shaped corners 56, 57, 58, 59 and 60 for forming the gemstone or diamond seating areas 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65, respectively. Seating areas 61 to 65 are used to retain and hold in place the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30, respectively, therein. The first radially-extending crossbar member 82 includes a first wall surface 85 having a first retaining insert edge member 86 thereon, a second wall surface 87 having a second retaining insert edge member 88 thereon. The second radially-extending crossbar member 92 includes a first wall surface 95 having a first retaining insert edge member 96, a second wall surface 97 having a second retaining insert edge member 98 thereon. The third radially-extending crossbar member 102 includes a first wall surface 105 having a first retaining insert edge member 106 thereon, and a second wall surface 107 having a second retaining insert edge member 108 thereon. The fourth radially-extending crossbar member 112 includes a first wall surface 115 having a first retaining insert edge member 116 thereon, and a second wall surface 117 having a second retaining insert edge member 118 thereon. The fifth radially-extending crossbar member 122 includes a first wall surface 125 having a first retaining insert edge member 126 thereon, and a second retaining insert edge member 128 thereon. As shown in FIG. 9, gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 are engaged in the following manner. Gemstone or diamond 22 include two adjacent side walls 22c and 22d having grooved slots 22j and 22k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 22j and 22k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 86 and 128 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 82 and 22, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 22 within seating area 61 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10. Gemstone or diamond 24 include two adjacent side walls 24c and 24d having grooved slots 24j and 24k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 24j and 24k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 96 and 88 of the two adjacent radially extending crossbar members 92 and 82, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 24 within seating area 62 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10. Gemstone or diamond 26 include two adjacent side walls 26c and 26d having grooved slots 26j and 26k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 26j and 26k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 106 and 98 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 102 and 92, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 26 within seating area 63 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10. Gemstone or diamond 28 include two adjacent side walls 28c and 28d having grooved slots 28j and 28k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 28j and 28k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 116 and 108 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 112 and 102, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 28 within seating area 64 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10. Gemstone or diamond 30 include two adjacent side walls 30c and 30d having grooved slots 30j and 30k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 30j and 30k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 126 and 118 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 122 and 112, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 30 within seating area 65 of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10.

[0060] The setting connecting bar member 132 includes a first end 134 and a second end 136, such that the first end 134 of the connecting bar member 132 is integrally attached to a centrally located point 130 on the bottom wall surface 81 of the center support member assembly 80. The connecting bar member 132 is used to attach to a jewelry holding member 18 in forming a ring member or other jewelry products such as pendants 12 pins/brooches 14, clasps, necklaces, anklets and earrings, as shown in FIG. 11 of the drawings. The setting connecting bar member 132 is an optional component part depending upon the type of jewelry being made.

Second Embodiment 2O0

[0061] The multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 and its component parts of the second embodiment of the present invention are represented in detail by FIGS. 12 through 22 of the patent drawings. The multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, is used for holding in place five (5) substantially rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 in which to form a flower-shaped jewelry arrangement 220. The multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 includes a frame assembly 240 having ten (10) curved side rail members 241 to 250 thereto, a prong assembly 70 having five (5) prong holding members 71 to 75 attached thereto, a center support member assembly 80 having five (5) radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130, and a setting connecting bar member 132.

[0062] The frame assembly 240, as shown in FIGS. 15 to 19 of the drawings, includes ten (10) curved side rail members 241 to 250. The frame assembly 240 also includes outer apex corners 251, 252, 253, 254 and 255 formed by the curved side rail members 241 and 242, 243 and 244, 245 and 246, 247 and 248, and 249 and 250, respectively. These outer apex corners 251 and 255 represent the outer flower tips of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200, as depicted in FIGS. 12 and 17 of the drawings. The frame assembly 240 further includes inner V-shaped corners 256, 257, 258, 259 and 260 formed by the curved side rail members 242 and 243, 244 and 245, 246 and 247, 248 and 249, and 250 and 241, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 of the drawings.

[0063] The prong assembly 70 and shown in FIGS. 12, 15, 16, 18 and 19 of the drawings, includes prong holding members 71 to 75. Prong holding members 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 include upper and lower ends 71a, 71b, 72a, 72b, 73a, 73b, 74a, 74b, 75a and 75b, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 of the drawings. Each of the prong holding members 71 to 75 at their respective lower ends 71a to 75a of prong assembly 70 are integrally connected to each of the outer apex corners 251 to 255 of frame assembly 240, respectively, as depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16 of the drawings. Upper end 71a of prong holding member 71 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 222e of gemstone or diamond 222. Upper end 72a of prong holding member 72 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 224e of gemstone or diamond 224. Upper end 73a of prong holding member 73 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 226e of gemstone or diamond 226. Upper end 74a of prong holding member 74 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 228e of gemstone or diamond 228. Upper end 75a of prong holding member 75 is used for engaging and holding the outer apex corner 230e of gemstone or diamond 230. Thereby, securing all of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 within each of the seating areas 261, 262, 263, 264 and 265, respectively, of the multi-stone flower-shaped setting 200 of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 15 of the drawings.

[0064] The center support member assembly 80, as shown in FIGS. 15, 16, and 20 of the drawings, includes five (5) radially-extending crossbar members 82, 92, 102, 112 and 122 being attached at their respective inner ends 83, 93, 103, 113 and 123 to a center connecting point 130, respectively, and being attached at their respective outer ends 84, 94, 104, 114 and 124 to each of the inner V-shaped corners 256, 257, 258, 259 and 260 for forming the gemstone or diamond seating areas 261, 262, 263, 264 and 265, respectively. Seating areas 261 to 265 are used to retain and hold in place the rhomboidal-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230, respectively, therein. The first radially-extending crossbar member 82 includes a first wall surface 85 having a first retaining insert edge member 86 thereon, and a second wall surface 87 having a second retaining insert edge member 88 thereon. The second radially-extending crossbar member 92 includes a first wall surface 95 having a first retaining insert edge member 96 thereon, a second wall surface 97 having a second retaining insert edge member 98 thereon. The third radially-extending crossbar member 102 includes a first wall surface 105 having a first retaining insert edge member 106 thereon, and a second wall surface 107 having a second retaining insert edge member 108 thereon. The fourth radially-extending crossbar member 112 includes a first wall surface 115 having a first retaining insert edge member 116 thereon, and a second wall surface 117 having a second retaining insert edge member 118 thereon. The fifth radially-extending crossbar member 122 includes a first wall surface 125 having a first retaining insert edge member 126 thereon, a second retaining insert edge member 128 thereon. As shown in FIG. 20, gemstone or diamonds 222 to 230 are engaged in the following manner. Gemstone or diamond 222 include two adjacent side walls 222c and 222d having grooved slots 222j and 222k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 222j and 222k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 86 and 128 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 82 and 122, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 222 within seating area 261 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200. Gemstone or diamond 224 include two adjacent side walls 224c and 224d having grooved slots 224j and 224k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 224j and 224k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 96 and 88 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 92 and 82, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 224 within seating area 262 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200. Gemstone or diamond 226 include two adjacent side walls 226c and 226d having grooved slots 226j and 226k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 226j and 226k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 106 and 98 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 102 and 92, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 226 within seating area 263 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200. Gemstone or diamond 228 include two adjacent side walls 228c and 228d having grooved slots 228j and 228k, respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 228j and 228k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 116 and 108 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 112 and 102, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 228 within seating area 264 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200. Gemstone or diamond 230 include two adjacent side walls 230c and 230d having grooved slots 230j and 230k , respectively, therein; wherein grooved slots 230j and 230k engage two adjacent retaining insert edge members 126 and 118 of the two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 122 and 112, respectively, for seating the rhomboid-shaped gemstone or diamond 230 within seating area 265 of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200.

[0065] The setting connecting bar member 132 includes a first end 134 and a second end 136 such that the first end 134 of the connecting bar member 132 is integrally attached to a centrally located point 130 on the bottom wall surface 81 of the center support member assembly 80. The connecting bar member 132 is used to attach to a jewelry holding member 18 in forming a ring member or other jewelry products such as pendants 12, pins/brooches 14, clasps, necklaces, anklets and earrings, as shown in FIG. 22 of the drawings. The setting connecting bar member 132 is an optional component part depending upon the type of jewelry being made.

Operation of the Present Invention

[0066] The operation of the star-shaped and the flower-shaped multi-stone settings 10 and 200 of the first and second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. 4, 9, 15 and 20 of the patent drawings, are assembled in a similar manner. The assembly operation starts with the jeweler mounting one of the side rail members 41 or 241 of the frame assembly 40 or 240 to a jewelry vise (not shown) for the convenient assembly of each ify of the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 or gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 within seating areas 61 to 65 or seating areas 261 to 265, respectively, of the multi-stone settings 10 and 200 by the jeweler.

[0067] The jeweler's initial steps for assembling the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10 are to slidably mount each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 within seating areas 61 to 65, respectively. Such that each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 having two adjacent side walls 22c and 22d, 24c and 24d, 26c and 26d, 28c and 28d, and 30c and 30d with grooves 22j and 22k, 24j and 24k, 26j and 26k, 28j and 28k, and 30j and 30k formed, respectively, therein, are used for engaging each of two adjacent retaining insert edge members 86 and 128, 96 and 88, 106 and 98, 116 and 108, and 126 and 118 of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 82 and 122, 92 and 82, 102 and 92, 112 and 102, and 122 and 112, respectively, thereon, for seating and nesting each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 within each of the five seating areas 61, 62, 63, 64 and 65, respectively, of the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10 of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] The jeweler's next step is securing each of the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 within each of the seating areas 61 to 65, respectively, therein, via the prong holding members 71 to 75 of the prong assembly 70, as depicted in FIGS. 4, 7 and 8 of the drawings. The jeweler now engages the upper ends 71a, 72a, 73a, 74a and 75a of the prong holding member 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 with each of the outer apex corners 22e, 24e, 26e, 28e and 30e of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30 respectively, in which to hold each of the gemstones or diamonds 22 to 30 in place and in a secure fashion in forming the star-shaped multi-stone setting 10 of the first embodiment.

[0069] The jeweler's final step is to attach the second end 136 of the setting connecting bar member 132 to a jewelry holding member 18 in forming a jewelry product such as a pendant 12, or other jewelry items as rings, brooches, pins, earrings and the like, as shown in FIG. 11 of the drawings.

[0070] The jeweler's initial steps for assembling the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200 are to slidably mount each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 within seating areas 261 to 265, respectively. Such that each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 having two adjacent side walls 222c and 222d, 224c and 224d, 226c and 226d, 228c and 228d, and 230c and 230d with grooves 222j and 222k, 224j and 224k, 226j and 226k, 228j and 222k, and 230j and 230k formed, respectively, therein, are used for engaging each of two adjacent retaining insert edge members 86 and 128, 96 and 88, 106 and 98, 116 and 108, and 126 and 118 of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members 82 and 122, 92 and 82, 102 and 92, 112 and 102, and 122 and 112, respectively, thereon, for seating and nesting each of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 within each of the five seating areas 261, 262, 263, 264 and 265, respectively, of the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200 of the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] The jeweler's next step is securing each of the gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 within each of the seating areas 261 to 265, respectively, therein, via the prong holding members 71 to 75 of the prong assembly 70, as depicted in FIGS. 15, 18 and 19 of the drawings. The jeweler now engages the upper ends 71a, 72a, 73a, 74a and 75a of the prong holding members 71, 72, 73, 74 and 75 with each of the outer apex corners 222e, 224e, 226e, 228e and 230e of the rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230, respectively, in which to hold each of the gemstones or diamonds 222 to 230 in place and in a secure fashion in forming the flower-shaped multi-stone setting 200 of the second embodiment.

[0072] The jeweler's final step is to attach the second end 136 of the setting connecting bar member 132 to a jewelry holding member 18 in forming jewelry products such as a pin 14 and an earring 16 or other jewelry items as rings, brooches, pendants and the like, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 of the drawings.

Advantages of the Present Invention

[0073] Accordingly, an advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member for holding therein five (5) marquise-cut gemstones or diamonds in which the combined aggregate of the five gemstones or diamonds gives the appearance of a five pointed star or a five petal orchid flower.

[0074] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member having five marquise-cut gemstones therein which gives the appearance that the setting is substantially invisible at distances greater than 12 inches from the jewelry product.

[0075] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be varied in size depending upon the total combined carat weight of the five marquise-cut gemstones or diamonds within the setting member.

[0076] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be made from precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum or palladium for setting precious gemstones including diamonds, riubies, sapphires, emeralds and the like.

[0077] Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member that can be attached to various jewelry products such as rings, pins, pendants and the like.

[0078] A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides for a star-shaped multi-stone setting member having five gemstones or diamonds, thereon that can be produced in an economical manner and is readily affordable by the jewelry consumer.

[0079] A latitude of modification, change, and substitution is intended in the foregoing disclosure, and in some instances, some features of the invention will be employed without a corresponding use of other features. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the spirit and scope of the invention herein.

Claims

1. A star-shaped multi-stone setting for receiving five substantially rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in said setting, comprising:

a) a prong assembly having at least five prong members;

b) ten side rail members connected to said five prong members to form a star-shaped setting;

c) a central support member having five radially-extending crossbar members attached at a center connecting point;

d) each of said radially-extending crossbar members having insert means formed thereon;

e) said radially-extending crossbar members being connected to said side rail members for forming five seating areas within said star-shaped setting;

f) each of said five seating areas for receiving one of five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein;

g) said five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds each having four side walls and four corners, respectively;

h) each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds having two adjacent side walls with grooves formed therein for engaging each of two adjacent insert means of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members for seating each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in each of said five seating areas of said star-shaped setting; and

i) each of said five prong members for engaging said gemstones or diamonds to keep said gemstones or diamonds seated within each of said five seating areas of said star-shaped setting.

2. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein each of said five prong holding members are used for engaging and securing an outer apex corner of said corners of each of said gemstones or diamonds in order to keep said five gemstones or diamonds seated within each of said five seating areas of said star-shaped multi-stone setting.

3. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein each of said seating areas each have a rhomboidal shape for receiving each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein.

4. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said insert means of each of said five radially-extending crossbar members include first and second retaining insert edge members thereon.

5. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said outer apex corner of each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds includes a cut arc angle alpha (&agr;) of 36° degrees.

6. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein one of said corners of each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds includes an inner apex corner.

7. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 6, wherein said inner apex corner of each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds includes a cut arc angle beta (&bgr;) of 72° degrees.

8. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said center connecting point of said center support member includes an integrally attached setting connecting bar member for attachment to a jewelry holding member for forming a piece of jewelry.

9. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 8, wherein said setting connecting bar member is attached to a jewelry holding member to form a ring, a pin, a brooch, a pendant, a clasp, a necklace, a bracelet, an anklet or earrings.

10. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said star-shaped multi-stone setting is made from gold, silver, platinum, palladium, or other precious metals.

11. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said star-shaped multi-stone setting is made into different size settings based upon the weight of said five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds, said total weight being in the range of 0.36 to 4.0 carats.

12. A star-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 1, wherein said gemstones are selected from the group consisting of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and combinations thereof.

13. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting for receiving five substantially rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in said setting, comprising:

a) a prong assembly having at least five prong members;

b) ten curved side rail members connected to said five prong members to form a flower-shaped setting;

c) a central support member having five radially-extending crossbar members attached at a center connecting point;

d) each of said radially-extending crossbar members having inset means formed thereon;

e) said radially-extending crossbar members being connected to said curved side rail members for forming five seating areas within said flower-shaped setting;

f) each of said five seating areas for receiving one of five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein;

g) said five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds each having two side walls, two curved side walls and four corners, respectively;

h) each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds having two adjacent side walls with grooves formed therein for engaging each of two adjacent insert means of two adjacent radially-extending crossbar members for seating each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds in each of said five seating areas of said flower-shaped setting; and

i) each of said five prong members for engaging said gemstones or diamonds to keep said gemstones or diamonds seated within each of said five seating areas of said flower-shaped setting.

14. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein each of said five prong holding members are used for engaging and securing an outer apex corner of said corners of each of said gemstones or diamonds in order to keep said five gemstones or diamonds seated within each of said five seating areas of said flower-shaped multi-stone setting.

15. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein each of said seating areas each have a rhomboidal shape for receiving each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds therein.

16. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein said insert means of each of said five radially-extending crossbar members include first and second retaining insert edge members thereon.

17. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein one of said corners of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds includes an inner apex corner.

18. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 17, wherein said inner apex corner of each of said rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds includes a cut arc angle gamma (&ggr;) of 72° degrees.

19. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein said center connecting point of said center support member includes an integrally attached setting connecting bar member for attachment to a jewelry holding member for forming a piece of jewelry.

20. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 19, wherein said setting connecting bar member is attached to a jewelry holding member to form a ring, a pin, a brooch, a pendant, a clasp, a necklace, a bracelet, an anklet or earrings.

21. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein said flower-shaped multi-stone setting is made from gold, silver, platinum, palladium, or other precious metals.

22. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein said flower-shaped multi-stone setting is made into different size settings based upon the weight of said five rhomboid-shaped gemstones or diamonds, said total weight being in the range of 0.36 to 4.0 carats.

23. A flower-shaped multi-stone setting in accordance with claim 13, wherein said gemstones are selected from the group consisting of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds and combinations thereof.