US Patent 7343729 Simulated chains with flexible sections

Methods and apparatus are provided for cost effectively forming jewelry chains that simulate the appearance of particular types of conventional chain using substantially rigid sections. The rigid sections are interconnected by conventionally formed flexible sections of conventional chain. The result is that the overall jewelry chain appears as an integral and homogenous chain having a consistent aesthetic appearance. The resulting chains also provide flexibility through the use of the one or more flexible sections of conventionally formed chains. The rigid sections may be formed by cutting lengths of material upon which chain simulation patterns have been formed.