Abstract: A method for predicting a future value or direction of a first numerical time series comprising the steps of: forming an non-numerical time series; optimizing the non-numerical time series; converting at least a portion of the optimized non-numerical time series into a second numerical time series; and using the second numerical time series to predict the future value of the first numerical time series.

Abstract: An earring is provided and includes a basket including a circular member having a center. Also included is a curved member having a first end and a second end wherein the first end of the curved member is connected to the circular member. A post is included and has a first end and a second end. The first end of the post is affixed to a wearer's ear lobe and the second end of the post is connected to the second end of the curved member. The curved member is dimensioned and shaped so that the post is axially aligned with the center of the circular member. An ornament having a loop member is dimensioned and shaped to slideably receive the post and the curved member. When the post is inserted through the loop member, the ornament is suspended from the curved member adjacent said circular member.