Mall-based teen accessories retailer Claire’s, known for helping to usher in millions of teens into an important rite of passage — ear piercing — but

Claire's, an accessory and ear piercing shop that was once a staple in malls, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection this week.

Claire’s, a mall staple that attracts pre-teens for its bargain jewelry and accessories, has filed for its second bankruptcy in less than a decade.