VORTEX Hanayama is a cast metal brain teaser puzzle from Hanayama Puzzles of Japan and distributed under license in USA by University Games / bePuzzled. Objective is to completely separate all 3 pieces and then rejoin. When assembled the puzzle has a gorgeous swirl shape (similar to a mobius band) . The designer, Akio Yamamoto, hint on solving the puzzle is to think "crest". This brain teaser is a great challenge for anyone who enjoys mechanical style take-apart challenges. Recommended for ages 12 to 105 years. Some bright 8 to 11 years olds may also find this a fascinating challenge. Requires clever movements. NO force is ever required. Some may solve initially but not know (remember) exactly how the pieces came apart. Re-assembly is also a fun challenge. Rated by the manufacturer as a level 5 difficulty (on a scale of 1 to 6 where 6 is the most challenging). Your experience could differ. Measure slightly under 2 inches across. VORTEX is one of 60 plus cast metal, pocket-size puzzles produced by the Hanayama Puzzle Company of Japan.