Absolutely! Jewelry is an art form that allows makers to express their individuality and cultural influences, and certain designs are used to represent important symbols. For example, Central American artisans incorporate traditional figures, glyphs, and pre-Hispanic folklore. In Mexico, the famous work of artists Angel Ortiz, Maria Belen Nilson, and Rosa Rojo highlight the beauty of Aztec, Mayan and Teotihuacan civilizations. In Peru, powerful symbols, like the Andean chakana, are used to represent humanitys union with the cosmos. Indian artists are extremely tied to their faith and spirituality. Earring designs include chakra gemstones, motifs of Lord Ganesha, and other spiritual imagery. In Bali, the Om symbol is prevalent, as well as the mythological panther-like Barong image, which is seen as a protector spirit. Designs pulled from the natural world, like animal figures, feathers, plants, as well as stones, are used in almost every culture, which then infuses them with their own particular meanings.
Yes! We offer a wide selection of earrings that are made from eco-friendly materials. Cow bone, water buffalo horn, fabric, recycled paper, wood, palm leaf and coconut shells, just to name a few. Product descriptions always list materials used, so be sure to read about each product to discover how artisans are working to ensure sustainability and environmental consciousness.
There is no best when it comes to handmade earrings. However, certain materials lend themselves well to jewelry. Silver and gold, for example, are frequently used to make earrings because of their luster and shine. Each region puts its own unique touch on the art of earring-making. Most use some combination of silver, gold, gemstones, wooden or glass beads, and bones. Some regions, like West Africa, have found ways to introduce up-cycling into the jewelry-making process. Recycled plastic and paper beads, as well as coconut shells are commonly integrated into beautiful works of earring art. Whatever materials used, quality and safety are always our top priorities. Each pair of earrings is tested to ensure its safety. If you do have sensitive skin, you may consider rhodium plated earrings, as rhodium is completely hypoallergenic. You can always find all relevant information about materials in the product description.
While modern shapes and patterns may be new, earrings have actually been in existence for more than 7,000 years. In ancient cultures throughout Asia and Northern Africa, these pieces were traditionally worn by the wealthy elite who relied on accoutrements to communicate their status and position in society. In the Mesoamerican region of what is now Central America, earrings had religious significance and were worn by both men and women to honor pre-Hispanic deities. In ancient Peru, leaders adorned themselves in ceremonial garb, including earrings, which may have been used to indicate rank, function, religious codes, as well as emblems of power and prestige. Throughout history, earrings have been markers of social position and identity. While we may forget that this tremendous history lies behind a pair of modern earrings, global artisans work to keep ancient traditions alive.
Attention to detail, patience and expert craftsmanship are the essential ingredients that go into every pair of traditional earrings. Whether the style involves hand-beading, copal wood carving, metal work, fabric or filigree, processes often date back generations, and are handed down through families and artisan communities. One of the oldest methods of earring-making is jewelry casting. It is an art form that has been in existence for thousands of years. From the time that ancient civilizations learned to melt metal, they have been pouring molten gold and silver into cavities of stone, plaster, sand, and cuttlefish bone. Once hardened, castings were then broken free from their encasings and tooled into shape. While much has changed since these primitive forays, much remains the same. Around the world, artisans still use metal casting as an important process in jewelry making. Many cultures also make use of metal threads in their jewelry. Silver alloy, for example, is made in sheets or fine threads using a range of tools. Filigree, a delicate and beautiful art form, uses a process of weaving thin metal threads into a particular pattern or design. Regardless of the method of production, each pair of traditional earrings reflects the artisan's unique vision combined with processes passed down through generations.
These earrings are perfect for my needs. I have a large striking turquoise and spiny shell oyster dragonfly necklace I bought on a trip to Taos, New Mexico, made by a Navajo artisan. I tried to pair it with a number of different earrings, but was never satisfied with the look. These carnelian and turquoise earrings are perfect. From the abstract mix of colors to the beautiful silver settings to the length of the dangle, they are just right. Although worth the wait, be advised they did take a couple of weeks to arrive, so order early if you're shopping for Christmas.
My onyx and garnet earrings arrived yesterday. I am very pleased with the quality and the size. They are large and heavy enough to be dramatic but not overwhelming. They are very well made and the stones complement one another. Lovely earrings, Aparna. Thank you!
These earrings are very beautiful and made well! The color of the stone is gorgeous!
Everything I’ve ordered from Novica has been wonderful! This eclectic jewelry site is my favorite. I love the fact that each item I order comes from a country I’d love to visit someday. The artisans who make this beautiful jewelry take great care in their work and it shows!
One of the most wonderful things I love so much is the artist sends a personal note with their jewelry! So incredibly thoughtful and nice! I save every one of these notes.
I will order again and again!
"My journey into handicrafts has been great, yet the highlight came in 1995, when the Sultan of Brunei placed an order for my designs!"
Latest Update“I joined Novica way back in 2002 when the company was just a couple of years old. I owe a lot to Novica. It has helped me shape my... read more
Previously Viewed
{{#recentitems}}
{{/recentitems}}
The Spring Catalog
Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.