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 
       [0001]    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 
       [0002]    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. 
         [0003]    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. 
         [0004]    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 
       [0005]    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. 
         [0006]    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. 
         [0007]    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. 
         [0008]    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. 
         [0009]    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. 
         [0010]    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. 
         [0011]    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. 
         [0012]    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. 
         [0013]    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. 
         [0014]    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 
         [0015]    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: 
           [0016]      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. 
           [0017]      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. 
           [0018]      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. 
           [0019]      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. 
           [0020]      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. 
           [0021]      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. 
           [0022]      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. 
           [0023]      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. 
           [0024]      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. 
           [0025]      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. 
           [0026]      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. 
           [0027]      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. 
           [0028]      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. 
           [0029]      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; 
           [0030]      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. 
           [0031]      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. 
           [0032]      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. 
           [0033]      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. 
           [0034]      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. 
           [0035]      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. 
           [0036]      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. 
           [0037]      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. 
           [0038]      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. 
           [0039]      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. 
           [0040]      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. 
           [0041]      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. 
           [0042]      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. 
           [0043]      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. 
           [0044]      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. 
           [0045]      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. 
           [0046]      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. 
           [0047]      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. 
           [0048]      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. 
           [0049]      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. 
           [0050]      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. 
           [0051]      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. 
           [0052]      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. 
           [0053]      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. 
           [0054]      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. 
           [0055]      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. 
           [0056]      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. 
           [0057]      FIG. 42  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the ornamentation mechanism, demonstrating that elongate portion may extend perpendicularly from the mechanism body. 
           [0058]      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. 
           [0059]      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. 
           [0060]      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. 
           [0061]      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. 
           [0062]      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. 
           [0063]      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. 
           [0064]      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. 
           [0065]      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. 
           [0066]      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 
       [0067]    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. 
         [0068]    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. 
         [0069]    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  56   a  and a detachable fastener  58  affixed at a second end  56   b . 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  56   b , 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 . 
         [0070]    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  64   e , 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  64   a , with this proportion holding true for passageways  64   b ,  64   c , and  64   d  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 . 
         [0071]    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  62   a  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  62   a  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  62   a  of the mechanism body  60 ) to be seen around the stud  54 . 
         [0072]    Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the second side  62   b  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. 
         [0073]    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. 
         [0074]    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. 
         [0075]    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. 
         [0076]    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. 
         [0077]    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  70   a  may be secured to a first hole  76   a , and a second charm  70   b  may be secured to a second hole  76   b . If three holes  76  are present, three charms  70  may be detachably secured to the mechanism body  60 , such that a first charm  70   a  may be secured to a first hole  76   a , a second charm  70   b  may be secured to a second hole  76   b , and a third charm  70   c  may be secured to a third hole  76   c.    
         [0078]    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. 
         [0079]    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 . 
         [0080]      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. 
         [0081]    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 . 
         [0082]    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 . 
         [0083]    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  100   a  comprises the earring ornamentation mechanism  50  being located between the stud  54  and the fastener  58 . The earring in second presentation mode  100   b  comprises the earring ornamentation mechanism  50  being separate from the post  53 , stud  54 , and fastener  58 . 
         [0084]    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. 
         [0085]    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  56   a , and a fastener  58  affixed to the second end  56   b . 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. 
         [0086]    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. 
         [0087]    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. 
         [0088]    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  56   a , and a fastener  58  affixed to the second end  56   b . 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  62   a  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  62   a  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. 
         [0089]    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.