EARRING ORNAMENTATION MECHANISM AND METHODS FOR USE

Abstract

A mechanism and/or method for embellishing an earring by way of the inclusion of a mechanism body which may be added over the earring post or connected to another portion of an earring. The method and mechanism may include one or more ornamental charms, may be adjustable, and may utilize magnets.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and benefit of the following patent applications: (1) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/467,481, filed Sep. 9, 2013; which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to jewelry and, more specifically, to a mechanism for embellishing earrings, including methods for the use of such a mechanism.

Earrings and general pieces of jewelry are often very expensive items, particularly when these accessories feature some form of valuable ornamentation, such as precious stones. Traditionally, if one desires an earring with a particular ornamentation, one would need to purchase a new set of earrings. If one wanted multiple, interchangeable ornamentations, then one would need multiple sets of earrings. Thus, it would be necessary to invest a large amount of money into earrings in order to have many desired ornamentations. Similarly, if one wished to produce similar earrings with different ornamentation designs, one would need to produce and sell completely different earrings, increasing the cost of production.

It may be advantageous, therefore, to provide an earring orientation mechanism and/or earrings which preferably: may be removably attached to pre-existing earrings by inserting the post of an earring through a passageway in the mechanism body; may include one or more removable charms; may allow a detachable charm to be positioned at different heights relative to the post; may include additional embellishments for pre-existing earrings; and/or methods for use of the earring ornamentation mechanism including methods for using the earring ornamentation mechanism to retrofit existing earrings such that the existing earrings have new ornamentation, or providing a plurality of attachments to allow customization by end consumers.

SUMMARY

Briefly speaking, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to an earring ornamentation mechanism configured to detachably, slidably engage a pre-existing earring to allow the pre-existing earring to receive additional ornamentation. The pre-existing earring may have a post having first and second ends. A stud may be affixed to the first end of the post. A fastener may be detachably affixed to the second end of the post. The earring ornamentation mechanism preferably includes a mechanism body having first and second sides. The mechanism body may define a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides. The passageway can be configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough. The mechanism body is preferably configured to be slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use. The mechanism body may be configured to engage with at least one charm to the pre-existing earring. The at least one charm is preferably, but not necessarily, not a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring such that the earring ornamentation mechanism facilitates providing additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring.

In another aspect one embodiment of the present invention is directed to an earring ornamentation mechanism configured to detachably, slidably engage a pre-existing earring. The mechanism body is preferably configured to be slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use. The mechanism body may be configured to engage with at least one charm to the pre-existing earring. The at least one charm is preferably, but not necessarily, not a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring such that the earring ornamentation mechanism facilitates providing additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring.

In another aspect one embodiment of the present invention is directed to an earring ornamentation mechanism configured to detachably engage a post of an earring. The mechanism body is preferably configured to be located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use. The mechanism body may be configured to detachably secure at least one charm to the earring. The earring ornamentation mechanism facilitates providing additional and/or interchangeable ornamentation and/or embellishment to the earring.

In another aspect one embodiment of the present invention is directed to an earring ornamentation mechanism configured to detachably engage a pre-existing earring. The mechanism body is preferably configured to be located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use. The earring ornamentation mechanism facilitates providing additional and/or interchangeable ornamentation and/or embellishment to the pre-existing earring.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements which may include the following steps; providing the pre-existing earring having a post having first and second ends, a stud being affixed to the first end of the post, and a fastener being detachably affixed to the second end of the post; providing an earring ornamentation mechanism comprising a mechanism body having first and second sides; the mechanism body defining a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides, the passageway being configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough, at least one charm being disposed on the earring ornamentation mechanism, the at least one charm not being a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring; and inserting the post of the pre-existing earring through the passageway of the mechanism body such that the earring ornamentation mechanism positions the at least one charm to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring, the mechanism body being slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements which may include the following steps; providing the pre-existing earring; providing an earring ornamentation mechanism including a mechanism body configured to detachably engage the pre-existing earring, at least one charm being disposed on the earring ornamentation mechanism or alternatively being provided by the mechanism body itself, the at least one charm preferably not being a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring; engaging the mechanism body to the earring to provide additional ornamentation to the earring.

In a separate embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements including the following steps: providing the pre-existing earring having a post having first and second ends, a stud being affixed to the first end of the post, and a fastener being detachably affixed to the second end of the post; providing an earring ornamentation mechanism comprising a mechanism body having first and second sides; the mechanism body defining a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides, the passageway being configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough, the first side of the mechanism body comprising an ornamental element; and inserting the post of the pre-existing earring through the passageway of the mechanism body such that the earring ornamentation mechanism positions the first side of the mechanism body to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring, the mechanism body being slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an attachment for earrings which may be detachably, slidably affixed to a pre-existing earring by a passageway into which an earring post may be inserted. The preferred embodiment may include a mechanism body for the attachment as well as at least one charm for ornamentation. This may include a plurality of passageways to allow the charm to be held at varying heights relative to the post depending upon which passageways the post has been inserted into. Alternatively, the mechanism body may comprise a rack such that the mechanism can be adjusted such that the charm to be held at varying heights relative to the post without removing the post from the passageway. The preferred embodiment may also include one or more embedded magnets such that one or more charms made of magnetic materials can be detachably affixed to the mechanism body. Alternatively, the preferred embodiment may define a hole in the elongate portion to allow charms to be affixed thereto. The elongate portion may include one or more openings, or may include a key way such that one or more flanges present on the charm may secure the charm thereto.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for retrofitting an existing earrings which involves the steps of providing an earring ornamentation mechanism comprising a mechanism body with a passageway which can be slidably affixed to an existing earring by sliding over the post, the step of affixing a charm to the mechanism body, and the step of inserting an earring post through the passageway in the plate of the attachment such that the plate is slidably affixed to the earring and the charm is visible around the original ornamentation of the earring.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for providing customizable ornamentation comprising the steps of providing an earring ornamentation mechanism comprising a mechanism body with a passageway which can be slidably affixed to an existing earring by sliding over the post, providing one or more charms which can be affixed to the earring ornamentation mechanism, selecting one of the charms provided, affixing the selected charm to the earring ornamentation mechanism, and affixing a charm to the earring ornamentation mechanism t, and the step of inserting an earring post through the passageway in the plate of the attachment such that the earring ornamentation mechanism is slidably affixed to the earring and the charm is visible around the original ornamentation of the earring. In some aspects, this preferred embodiment may include the step of providing a kit containing two or more charms and at least one mechanism body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that the passageway and hole in the elongate portion preferably extend fully extend from the first to the second side of the mechanism body.

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, demonstrating that in one embodiment, an elongate portion of the mechanism body extends farther from the passageway that the rest of the mechanism body, and that a hole may be present in the elongate portion.

FIG. 3 is a top elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, demonstrating that the first and second sides of the mechanism body are generally parallel planar, with the passageway fully passing through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 4 is a bottom elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, further demonstrating that the first and second sides of the mechanism body are generally parallel planar, with the hole in the elongate portion fully passing through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 5 is a left side elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, further demonstrating that the first and second sides of the mechanism body are generally parallel planar, and that both the passageway and the hole in the elongate portion fully pass through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, with a hole present in the elongate portion, and a charm affixed to said hole in the elongate portion.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, with the ornamentation mechanism having been affixed to a preexisting earring, demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, detachably affixed to the second end of the post.

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 1, demonstrating that when the ornamentation mechanism is affixed to a pre-existing earring, a charm affixed to the elongate portion will preferably be visible around the stud.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that a magnet may be embedded in the elongate portion of the mechanism body.

FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, further demonstrating that a magnet may be embedded in the elongate portion of the mechanism body.

FIG. 11 is a top elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, demonstrating that in this embodiment, the first and second sides of the mechanism body are also generally parallel planar, with the passageway also fully passing through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 12 is a bottom elevational, partial cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, demonstrating that the embedded magnet is preferably contained within the elongate portion of the mechanism body without abutting the first or second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 13 is a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, further demonstrating the embedded magnet may not abut the first and second sides of the mechanism body, and that the passageway fully passes through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body.

FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, with a charm magnetically affixed to the elongate portion due to the magnetic force of the embedded magnet;

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, with a charm magnetically affixed to the elongate portion due to the magnetic force of the embedded magnet, and with the ornamentation mechanism affixed to a preexisting earring, demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post. While it is preferred that the ornamentation mechanism is slidably attached to the post, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the ornamentation mechanism can be attached to any portion of the pre-existing earring without departing from the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 9, demonstrating that when a charm is magnetically affixed to the elongate portion due to the magnetic force of the embedded magnet, and when the ornamentation mechanism is affixed to a pre-existing earring, the charm will preferably be visible around the stud.

FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, wherein the mechanism body comprises a logo or design such that the mechanism body comprises the charm such that no additional charm or elongate portion is present.

FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 17, further demonstrating the mechanism body comprising a logo or design such that the mechanism body comprises the charm such that no additional charm or elongate portion is present.

FIG. 19 is a top elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 17, demonstrating that in this embodiment, the first and second sides of the mechanism body are also generally parallel planar, with the passageway also fully passing through the width between the first and second sides of the mechanism body. While the ornamentation mechanism is shown as a disk shaped portion of sheet material, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the mechanism can have an irregular shape when viewed in an orientation similar to FIG. 19 such that the entire mechanism body has an irregular crystal cluster or the like without departing from the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 17, with the ornamentation mechanism having been affixed to a preexisting earring, demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body, and held such that the ornamentation elements of the mechanism can be seen around the stud.

FIG. 21 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 17, further demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body, and held such that the ornamentation elements of the mechanism can be seen around the stud.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, with the ornamentation mechanism having been affixed to a preexisting earring, demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body. For the ornamentation elements of the mechanism body to be seen around the stud, the mechanism body may be configured such that its diameter is greater than the diameter of the stud at its largest point.

FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 22, further demonstrating that the mechanism body may be configured such that its diameter is greater than the diameter of the stud at its largest point, to ensure that the ornamentation elements of the mechanism body may be seen around the stud.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a kit comprising a plurality of mechanism bodies and existing earrings demonstrating that a kit may be provided to allow multiple mechanism bodies or charms to be provide to increase customization.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a person wearing an earring with the earring ornamentation mechanism attached. The earring ornamentation mechanism was selected to match the logo and/or style of the apparel being worn.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating use of one or more flanges and a circular hole in the elongate portion to hold a charm in place. In this embodiment, the flanges are preferably deformable and/or elastic to allow the flanges to be pushed through the elongated portion.

FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 26, demonstrating how the use of the one or more flanges in FIG. 26 may secure the charm to the mechanism body.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating use of one or more flanges and a keyway to hold a charm in place.

FIG. 29 is a cross sectional view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 28, further demonstrating how the one or more flanges and the keyway in FIG. 28 may secure the charm to the mechanism body, as the flanges would be inserted through the keyway and turned such that the flanges no longer align with the openings in the keyway.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that the elongate portion may include two or more holes and can allow two or more charms to be affixed thereto.

FIG. 31 is a front elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 30, further demonstrating the inclusion of two or more holes in the elongate portion, allowing for two or more charms to be affixed thereto.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that the elongate portion may include three or more holes and can allow three or more charms to be affixed thereto.

FIG. 33 is a front elevational view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 32, further demonstrating the inclusion of three or more holes in the elongate portion, allowing for three or more charms to be affixed thereto.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that the mechanism body may comprise a plurality of passageways such that the post of an existing earring may be inserted through any of the plurality of passageways, allowing the charm to be held at different heights relative to the stud.

FIG. 35 is a cross sectional view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 34, further demonstrating that the stud of an existing earring may pass fully through the mechanism body through each any of the plurality of passageways.

FIG. 36 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 34, with the ornamentation mechanism having been affixed to a preexisting earring and the earring stud inserted through a selected one of the plurality of passageways, illustrating that the charm could be held at different heights relative to the stud to changes the visibility of the charm dependent upon the size of the preexisting ornamentation.

FIG. 37 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 34, illustrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through one of the plurality of passageways in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body, and can be adjusted such that the ornamentation elements of the mechanism can be seen around the stud if the proper passageway is selected.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that passageway may be further comprised of rack, with several resting positions such that the earring post can be inserted into the passageway and can be adjusted to different resting location without removing the post from the passageway.

FIG. 39 is a cross sectional view of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 34, further demonstrating that the post may be moved to different resting places within the rack without being removed from the passageway.

FIG. 40 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 38 with a charm affixed to the mechanism body, the ornamentation mechanism can be affixed to a preexisting earring and the earring stud inserted through passageway and set into one of the resting places within the rack, demonstrating that the rack can allow the charm to be held at different heights relative to the stud to change the visibility of the charm dependent upon the size of the preexisting ornamentation.

FIG. 41 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 38 with a charm affixed to the mechanism body, further demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body, and held such that the post can be adjusted into different resting places within the rack to allow the charm to be held at different heights relative to the stud to change the visibility of the charm dependent upon the size of the preexisting ornamentation.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that elongate portion may extend perpendicularly from the mechanism body.

FIG. 43 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, demonstrating that hole in the elongate portion may extend fully through the elongate portion.

FIG. 44 is a top elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, demonstrating that the elongate portion may extend in only one direction away from the mechanism body in a perpendicular direction.

FIG. 45 is a bottom elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, further demonstrating that the hole in the elongate portion extends slightly under the mechanism body.

FIG. 46 is a left side elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, further demonstrating that the elongate portion may extend in only one direction away from the mechanism body in a perpendicular direction.

FIG. 47 is a rear elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42 with a charm attached to the elongate portion, further demonstrating that the elongate portion may extend perpendicularly in only one direction.

FIG. 48 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, with a charm affixed to the mechanism body, the ornamentation mechanism having been affixed to a preexisting earring and the earring stud inserted through passageway with a charm affixed to the elongate portion which extends forward from the mechanism body and rests below the stud.

FIG. 49 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism of FIG. 42, further demonstrating that the ornamentation mechanism can be slidably affixed to a preexisting earring when the post of the earring is inserted through the passageway in the mechanism body such that the mechanism body is held on the post between the stud, held at the first end of the post, and the fastener, held at the second end of the post body, and held forward and under the stud such that the ornamentation elements of the mechanism can be seen around the stud.

FIG. 50 is a front perspective view of the earring of one preferred embodiment wherein the earring comprises a first presentation mode and a second presentation mode, demonstrating the appearance of the earring in first presentation mode, in which the earring ornamentation mechanism is slidably engaged with the pre-existing earring.

FIG. 51 is a front perspective view of the earring of one preferred embodiment wherein the earring comprises a first presentation mode and a second presentation mode, demonstrating the appearance of the earring in second presentation mode, in which the earring ornamentation mechanism is provided separately from the pre-existing earring.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right”, “left”, “up”, and “down” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. When multiple drawings from different orientations are referenced, these words are used in reference to the directions in the front elevated view. The words “outer” and “inner” refer to directions away from and toward, respectively, the geometric center of ornamentation mechanism. The term “generally parallel” designates surfaces positioned within fifteen degrees (15°) of true mathematic parallel, which is to say that in reference to an imaginary stable line bisecting the surfaces, the surface extend away in an angle within fifteen degrees (15°) of the angle of the other surface. Term “generally perpendicular” designates surfaces positioned within fifteen degrees (15°) of true mathematic perpendicularity, which is to say that in reference to an imaginary stable line running parallel to the first surface, the second surface extend away in an angle within fifteen degrees (15°) of a right angle from the first surface. Additionally, the words “a” and “one” are defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

Referring to FIGS. 1-51 wherein like numeral indicate like elements throughout, there are shown preferred embodiments of an earring ornamentation mechanism 50. The present invention is directed at the embodiments disclosed herein, and methods of using the same both to retrofit an existing earring and to provide customizable earrings more affordably.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 is preferably configured to be detachably affixed to pre-existing earrings to provide pre-existing earrings with additional ornamentation. The earring ornamentation mechanism 50 is preferably directed toward existing earrings which comprise a post 52 having a stud 54, comprising a base 96 and an embellishment 98, affixed at a first end 56a and a detachable fastener 58 affixed at a second end 56b. The ornamentation mechanism 50 is preferably figured to comprise a mechanism body 60 having both first and second sides 62 and a passage way 64 which passes fully through both the first and second sides 62 of the mechanism body 60. The passageway 64 is preferably configured such that it can slidably engage the post 52 when the fastener 58 is removed, and may rest on the post between the stud 54 and fastener 58 when the fastener 58 is affixed to the second end 56b, such as when the earring is in use. The ornamentation mechanism 50 is configured such that the ornamentation mechanism 50 can add ornamentation to the existing earring in addition to the stud 54 which can be seen around the stud 54, this additional ornamentation element being referred to herein as a charm 70.

Referring to FIGS. 34-37, the mechanism body 60 may comprise a plurality of passageways 64 such that the post 52 can be inserted through any one of the plurality of passageways 64, changing the proportion of the mechanism body 60 which sits below the post 52. For example, a majority of the mechanism body 60 would be held above the post 52 if the post 52 were inserted through the fifth passageway 64e, labelled from top down, while conversely a majority of the mechanism body 60 would be held below the post 52 if the post 52 were inserted through the first passageway 64a, with this proportion holding true for passageways 64b, 64c, and 64d as well. This configuration may allow the mechanism body 60 to be held at different levels relative to the post 52, allowing the detachably secured charm 70 to be adjusted to be seen around a stud 54, depending on the size of the stud 54. Referring to FIGS. 38-41, in a separate embodiment the proportion of the mechanism body 60 held above the post 52 may be adjusted through the use of a rack, preferably formed of a semi-rigid material which may provide an outward flex, such as polymer or certain metals. This configuration comprises the passageway 64 being configured to comprise a rack shape, with a plurality of resting places 66 separated by a plurality of constricted regions 68. This would allow the post 52 to remain in place once inserted into the passageway 64, as the post 52 would be held in the selected resting 66. The application of upward or downward force upon the post 52 could allow the post 52 to exert outward force on the passageway 64, causing the post 52 to push through one of the constricted regions 68 and come to rest in a second resting place 66. This may allow proportion of the mechanism body 60 held above the post 52 to be adjusted without removing the post 52 from the passageway 64.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the ornamentation mechanism 50 is preferably configured to allow for at least one charm 70 to be detachably secured to a pre-existing earring, the term charm 70 being defined herein as an element included to provide additional ornamentation. This ornamentation may include college or sports team logos, colors, geometric designs, and the like. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any additional ornamentation may be provided without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. Thus, referring to FIGS. 17-23, in some embodiments the first side 62a of the mechanism body 60 may be comprised of the charm 70. In such embodiments, it is preferable that the charm 70, and necessarily the first side 62a of the mechanism body 60, be seen around the stud 54. In some embodiments, it is preferred that the elongate portion 74 and the at least one charm 70 are configured such that the at least one charm 70 is detachably secured to the elongate portion 74 via a magnetic connection. In one such embodiment, the mechanism body 60 may further comprise at least one magnet 61, preferably embedded in the elongate portion 74, and the charm 70 may be comprised of magnetic material, thus allowing the charm 70 to be magnetically detachably secured to the mechanism body 60. In this embodiment, the mechanism body 60 may be comprised of or covered in a rubber or polymer layer which may embed the magnet 61 without impeding its magnetic force. In another such embodiment, the charm 70 may further comprise a magnet 61 and the mechanism body 60 may be comprised of magnetic material, thus allowing the charm 70 to be magnetically detachably secured to the mechanism body 60. In this embodiment, the charm 70 may be comprised of or covered in a rubber or polymer layer which may embed the magnet 61 in the at least one charm 70 without impeding its magnetic force. Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that other materials and processes for embedding the embedded magnet 61 may be used without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. In these embodiments, it is therefore preferable that the mechanism body 60 be configured such that the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the mechanism body 86 is larger than the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the stud 88, as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post 52. In other words, the diameter of the mechanism body 60 is preferably greater than the greatest diameter of any portion of the stud 54, allowing the charm 70 (or the first side 62a of the mechanism body 60) to be seen around the stud 54.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the second side 62b of the mechanism body may include an additional layer of material to prevent any abrasion between the mechanism body 60 and the ear of a wearer. For example the additional layer may be a felt layer, a rubber layer, a polymer layer, or the like. When a rubber material or suitable elastomer is used to form the additional layer of material it is preferable, but not necessary, that the compression of the additional layer against the ear of a wearer prevents rotation of the mechanism body 60 while the earring and the mechanism body are worn.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, the charm 70 is preferably a separate element from the mechanism body 60, formed of metal or plastic. However, those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any other suitably hard, lightweight material can be provided without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. The charm 70 provides additional ornamentation to the earring and preferably, but not necessarily, includes additional ornamentation elements such as a design, logo, or ornate shape. Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the addition of a charm 70 can include the provision of a simple ornamentation element and not exceed the scope of this disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 1-16, the mechanism body 60 preferably further comprises an upper portion 72 and an elongate portion 74, with the upper portion 72 comprised to include one or more passageways 64 and the elongate portion 74 being configured to have at least one charm 70 detachably secured thereto.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8 and 30-33, the elongate portion 74 preferably comprises at least one hole 76. Although the hole 76 and the upper portion 72 are each preferably formed in an oval or circular shape, those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the hole 76 and/or upper portion 72 may take other shapes, such as triangular, octagonal, or the like, without exceeding the scope of this disclosure.

The at least one hole 76 and the charm 70 are preferably configured such that the at least one charm 70 is engaged with the elongate portion 74 such that the charm is held at a distance from an outer surface of the post 90 larger than the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the stud 88 as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post 52. In other words, this embodiment is configured such that the charm 70 is held far enough from the post 52 that is can be seen around the stud 54. In the preferred embodiment, the charm 70 is secured to the elongate portion 74 by a ring 84 inserted though both the charm 70 and the hole 76. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that other securing means, including detachably securing means such as hook-and-loop fasteners, magnets, buttons, or clasps, and permanent affixing means such as spot welding, may be used without exceeding the scope of this disclosure.

In certain embodiments, which include more than one charm 70 and more than one hole 76, the number of charms 70 may correspond to the number of holes. Thus if two holes 76 are present, two charms 70 may be detachably secured to the mechanism body 60, such that a first charm 70a may be secured to a first hole 76a, and a second charm 70b may be secured to a second hole 76b. If three holes 76 are present, three charms 70 may be detachably secured to the mechanism body 60, such that a first charm 70a may be secured to a first hole 76a, a second charm 70b may be secured to a second hole 76b, and a third charm 70c may be secured to a third hole 76c.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the number of charms 70 need not be equal to the number of holes 76 in the elongate portion 72, and that the number of charms 70 or holes 76 may exceed three, without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. In the preferred embodiments which comprise more than one hole 76 in the elongate portion 74, it is preferred that the width of the elongate portion 74 exceed the width of the upper portion 72. However, those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the width of the elongate portion 74 may be less than or equal to the width of the upper portion 72 without exceeding the scope of this disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 26-29, the at least one charm 70 which may be detachably secured to the hole 76 in the elongate portion 74 may be further configured to comprise at least one flange 78, configured to hold the at least one charm with the at least one hole 76. In some embodiments, a single flange 78 may run the entire circumference of the affixing peg 80 to secure to charm 70 in place. In other embodiments, additional flanges 78 may be affixed to the affixing peg 80 to secure the charm 70 in place. In another embodiment, the hole 76 further comprises a keyway 82, and the flanges 78 affixed to the affixing peg 80 may be configured to match the keyway 82 such that the affixing peg 80 may be inserted into the keyway 82 and turned several degrees to lock the affixing peg 82 into the hole 76, such that the charm 70 is detachably secured to the elongate portion 74.

FIGS. 9-16, the elongate portion 74 and the charms 70 may be configured such that the charm 70 may be detachably secured to the elongate portion 74 via a magnetic connection. In a preferred embodiment, the mechanism body 60 may further comprise at least one magnet 61, preferably embedded in the mechanism body 60, and the charm 70 may be comprised of magnetic material, thus allowing the charm 70 to be magnetically detachably secured to the mechanism body 60. In this embodiment, the mechanism body 60 may be comprised of or covered in a rubber or polymer layer which may embed the magnet 61 without impeding its magnetic force.

In another preferred embodiment, the charm 70 may comprise a magnet 61 and the elongate portion 74 may be comprised of magnetic material, thus allowing the charms 70 to be magnetically detachably secured to the mechanism body 60. In this embodiment, the charm 60 may be comprised of or covered in a rubber or polymer layer which may embed and/or affix the magnet 61 without impeding its magnetic force. Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that other materials and processes for embedding the embedded magnet 61 may be used without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that other means for detachably securing the charms 70 to the elongate portion 74, such as hook-and-loop, snapping buttons, and the like may be used without exceeding the scope of this disclosure. In these embodiments, it is therefore preferable that the mechanism body 60 be configured such that the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the mechanism body 86 is larger than the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the stud 88 as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post 90.

Referring to FIGS. 42-49, the elongate portion 74 discussed above is preferably held on the same plane as the upper portion 72 of the mechanism body 60. However, in some embodiments, the upper portion 72 may generally define a first plane and the elongate portion 74 may generally define a second plane that is oriented generally perpendicular to the first plane, such that the elongate portion 74 may be configured in a perpendicular orientation to the upper portion 72. In this orientation, it is preferred that the elongate portion 74 extend outward in only one perpendicular direction, preferably extending toward the stud 54. However, those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the elongate portion 74 may extend in each perpendicular direction and not exceed the scope of this disclosure. Those with ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate from this disclosure that the second plane on which the elongate portion 74 is oriented need not be of a true mathematic perpendicular to the first plane on which the upper portion 72 is oriented to remain within the scope of this disclosure. The elongate portion 74 may configured such that it has a perpendicular orientation and may be configured to include the same methods for detachably securing a charm 70, such as the use of one or more embedded magnet 61, as discussed above such that that the charm is held at a distance from an outer surface of the post 90 larger than the distance from an outer surface of the post 90 to an outer surface of the stud 88 as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post 52.

Referring to FIGS. 50-51, the present invention is further directed to an earring with two presentation modes, comprising the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 and an earring comprising a post 53, a stud 54, and a fastener 58. The earring in first presentation mode 100a comprises the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 being located between the stud 54 and the fastener 58. The earring in second presentation mode 100b comprises the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 being separate from the post 53, stud 54, and fastener 58.

A preferred implementation of the preferred methods of the present invention will be described below (alone or in combination with various embodiments of the earring ornamentation mechanism 50). The steps of the method of the present invention can be performed in any order, omitted, or combined without departing from the scope of the present invention. As such, optional or required steps described in conjunction with one implementation of the method can also be used with another implementation or omitted altogether. Additionally, unless otherwise stated, similar structure or functions described in conjunction with the below method preferably, but not necessarily, operate in a generally similar manner to that described elsewhere in this application.

One method according to the present invention is directed to a method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements, comprising the first step preferably including providing a pre-existing earrings having post 52 with first and second ends 56, a stud 54, comprising a base 96 and an embellishment 98, affixed to the first end 56a, and a fastener 58 affixed to the second end 56b. The second step preferably includes providing the earring ornamentation mechanism 50, the many embodiments of which are detailed above, generally comprising a mechanism body 60 comprising first and second sides 62 and a defining a passageway 64 therethrough configured for the post 52 to be inserted therethrough, and at least one charm 70 being disposed on the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 while not being a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring. The third step preferably comprises inserting the post 52 through the passageway 64 such that the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 positions the at least one charm 70 to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring and, such that the mechanism body 60 is slidably located on the post between the stud 54 and fastener 58 when the earring is in use.

Referring to FIG. 25, this method may include the additional step of providing a kit to allow for increased customizability of ornamentation. In one embodiment of the method, the step of providing a kit comprises providing a plurality of different charms 70 to allow retrofitting of the pre-existing earrings to coordinate with an item of apparel. This step would allow for a coordinated charm 92 to be used in connection with coordinated apparel 94. In another preferred embodiment, the step of providing a kit may further comprise the additional steps of providing a plurality of different charms 70 and the step of selecting one of the plurality of different charms 70 to detachably secure to the earring attachment 50, accessorizing the pre-existing earring. These additional steps thus include the steps of selecting one of a variety of charms 70 to accessorize the pre-existing earring as desired. In another preferred embodiment, the step of providing the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 may further comprise at least one charm 70 being detachably engaged with the earring ornamentation mechanism 50, as through the detachable affixing methods discussed previously, rather than permanently affixed to it. In another preferred embodiment, the method may further comprise the steps of providing a kit comprising a plurality of different mechanism bodies 60, and the step of selecting one of the plurality of different mechanism bodies 60 to detachably secure to and to embellish the pre-existing earring.

Referring to FIG. 24, the kit described in the preferred embodiment may preferably comprise a kit 104, itself comprising a top clamshell 106 and a bottom clamshell 108 conjoined at a hinge 110, allowing the top clamshell 106 and bottom clamshell 108 to open outward about the hinge, opening to reveal a foam insert 112, and the contents of the kit, preferably a plurality of mechanism bodies 60, and a plurality of pre-existing earrings 51. The elements of this preferred kit 104 are disclosed for clarity sake, and those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the provision of a kit need not include any or all of these elements to remain within the scope of this disclosure.

A second method according to the present invention is directed to a method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements, comprising the first step of preferably including providing a pre-existing earrings having post 52 with first and second ends 56, a stud 54, comprising a base 96 and an embellishment 98, affixed to the first end 56a, and a fastener 58 affixed to the second end 56b. The second step preferably includes providing the earring ornamentation mechanism 50, the many embodiments of which are detailed above, generally comprising a mechanism body 60 comprising first and second sides 62 and a defining a passageway 64 therethrough configured for the post 52 to be inserted therethrough, and the first side 62a of the mechanism body 60 comprising an ornamental element. The third step preferably comprises inserting the post 52 through the passageway 64 such that the earring ornamentation mechanism 50 positions the first side 62a of the mechanism body 60 to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring and, such that the mechanism body 60 is slidably located on the post between the stud 54 and fastener 58 when the earring is in use.

It is recognized by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the above described methods, earring, and/or earring ornamentation mechanism without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended cover all modifications which are within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the above specification, the appended claims and/or shown in the attached drawings.

Claims

1. An earring ornamentation mechanism configured to detachably, slidably engage a pre-existing earring to allow the pre-existing earring to receive additional ornamentation, the pre-existing earring having a post having first and second ends, a stud is affixed to the first end of the post, and a fastener is detachably affixed to the second end of the post, the earring ornamentation mechanism comprising:

a mechanism body having first and second sides;

the mechanism body defining a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides, the passageway is configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough, the mechanism body being further configured to be slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use; and

the mechanism body being configured to detachably secure at least one charm to the pre-existing earring, the at least one charm not being a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring such that the earring ornamentation mechanism facilitates providing additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring.

2. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mechanism body further comprises an upper portion and an elongate portion, wherein the at least one charm and the elongate portion are configured such that the at least one charm is engaged with the elongate portion.

3. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the elongate portion defines at least one hole and wherein the at least one charm is engaged with the at least one hole such that a distance from a post outer surface to the charm is greater than the distance from the post outer surface to a stud outer surface, as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post.

4. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the elongate portion defines at least one hole and wherein the at least one charm is further configured to be detachably affixed to the at least one hole such that a distance from a post outer surface to the charm is greater than the distance from the post outer surface to a stud outer surface, as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post, the at least one charm further comprises at least one flange configured to hold the at least one charm within the at least one hole.

5. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 4, wherein the at least one hole further comprises a keyway and the at least one flange is configured to lock into the key way such that the at least one charm is detachably secured within the at least one hole.

6. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the elongate portion and the at least one charm are configured such that the at least one charm can be magnetically engaged with the elongate portion.

7. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the passageway comprises a rack formed by a plurality of resting places and a plurality of constricted regions, such that the post can be inserted through the passageway and can be adjusted to different heights relative to the post without removing the post from the passageway, at least part of the upper portion of the mechanism body proximate the rack being elastic to facilitate adjustment of the post therein.

8. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the upper portion generally defines a first plane and the elongate portion generally defines a second plane that is oriented generally perpendicular to the first plane, the elongate portion further comprises at least one hole and wherein the at least one charm is further configured to be detachably affixed to the at least one hole such that a distance from a post outer surface to the charm is greater than the distance from the post outer surface to a stud outer surface, as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post.

9. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the upper portion generally defines a first plane and the elongate portion generally defines a second plane that is oriented generally perpendicular to the first plane, the elongate portion and the at least one charm being configured such that the at least one charm is detachably secured to the elongate portion via a magnetic connection.

10. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the upper portion of the mechanism body comprises a plurality of passageways such that the post can be inserted through any one of the plurality of passageways, allowing the mechanism body to be held at different heights relative to the post.

11. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 2, wherein the passageway comprises a rack formed by a plurality of resting places and a plurality of constricted regions, such that the post can be inserted through the passageway and can be adjusted to different heights relative to the post without removing the post from the passageway.

12. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 1, wherein the mechanism body is configured such that the distance from a post outer surface to an outer surface of the ornamentation mechanism is larger than the distance from the post outer surface to a stud, as measured radially relative to an elongated axis defined by the post.

13. The earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 12, wherein the mechanism body comprises at least one magnet and wherein the at least one charm is further comprised of magnetic materials such that the at least one charm may be magnetically affixed to the mechanism body.

14. An earring comprising

the earring ornamentation mechanism of claim 1;

the earring having a first presentation mode and a second presentation mode, wherein the first presentation mode comprises the earring ornamentation mechanism being located between the stud and the fastener, and wherein the second presentation mode comprises the earring only comprising the post, the stud, and the fastener, such that the earring ornamentation mechanism is separate from the earring.

15. A method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements comprising the following steps;

providing the pre-existing earring, having a post having first and second ends, a stud is affixed to the first end of the post, and a fastener is detachably affixed to the second end of the post;

providing an earring ornamentation mechanism, comprising a mechanism body having first and second sides; the mechanism body defining a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides, the passageway is configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough, at least one charm is disposed on the earring ornamentation mechanism, the at least one charm not being a fixed portion of the pre-existing earring; and

inserting the post of the pre-existing earring through the passageway of the mechanism body such that the earring ornamentation mechanism positions the at least one charm to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring, the mechanism body being slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use.

16. The method of claim 15 further comprising providing a kit comprising a plurality of different charms to allow retrofitting of the pre-existing earrings to coordinate with an item of apparel apparel.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

providing a kit comprising a plurality of different charms; and

selecting one of the plurality of different charms to detachably secure to the earring attachment mechanism to accessorize the pre-existing earring.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the step of providing an earring ornamentation mechanism further comprises the at least one charm being detachably engaged with the mechanism.

19. A method of retrofitting a pre-existing earring to include additional design elements comprising the following steps;

providing the pre-existing earring, having a post having first and second ends, a stud is affixed to the first end of the post, and a fastener is detachably affixed to the second end of the post;

providing an earring ornamentation mechanism, comprising a mechanism body having first and second sides; the mechanism body defining a passageway therethrough between the first and second sides, the passageway is configured for the post of the pre-existing earring to be inserted therethrough, the first side of the mechanism body comprising an ornamental element; and

inserting the post of the pre-existing earring through the passageway of the mechanism body such that the earring ornamentation mechanism positions the first side of the mechanism body to provide additional ornamentation to the pre-existing earring, the mechanism body being slidably located on the post between the stud and fastener when the earring is in use.

20. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

providing a kit comprising a plurality of different mechanism bodies; and

selecting one of the plurality of different mechanism bodies to detachably secure to and to embellish the pre-existing earring.