Apparatus and related systems and methods for organizing, transporting, and using earrings, jewelry, and similar objects

Abstract

In at least some embodiments, the system can be used with a wide variety of types of earrings. Examples include, without limitation, pierced, french wires, hoops, and clip-ons. Preferably, one or more mounting trays are provided with means for readily holding those items at a selected position on the tray. Also preferably, the trays are sufficiently large to each hold a plurality of earrings. Among many alternatives, a perforated “mesh” or pegboard-type tray can be used, with each such tray having a plurality of holes, slots, or other openings formed in it. The specific size, shape, relative position, spacing, and other aspects of the openings can be selected when designing any particular embodiment of the invention, based on (among other things) the application for which the embodiment is intended. Different patterns and mixes of holes/slots/etc. can be provided, based on functional and/or aesthetic considerations.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . Apparatus for storing and facilitating use of jewelry, including:
 at least one container element;   at least one tray element, said tray element having means for holding at least one jewelry item; and   engagement means acting between said tray element and said container element to selectively hold said tray in a selectably movable position with respect to the container.   
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further including:
 a plurality of such tray elements being of at least generally similar size and shape.   
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , further including:
 a plurality of such container elements each configured to selectively receive and engage at least one such tray element.   
     
     
         4 . A method of storing and using jewelry, including:
 providing the apparatus of  claim 1 ;   engaging at least one piece of jewelry with said tray element;   storing said at least one piece of jewelry in said engaged relationship; and   displaying said at least one piece of jewelry in its engaged relationship.