Over $135.3 million USD sent to artisans so far!

Artisan Subscription Box

Earrings

11,845 items

The Village Council

Your answers straight from the village experts

+ - What is the history of women’s earrings?

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.

+ - Are there any traditional methods for making women’s earrings?

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.

Featured Reviews

Product picture

Sterling silver hoop earrings, 'Brightly Shining'

Nadine

Jun 13, 2023

My go-to pair of earrings

Product picture

I've found myself reaching for these earring so often. They look nice whether I'm dressing casually or going out to something special. I like them because they are textured, the perfect size for me (not too small or large), and striking enough without looking cluttered if wearing a necklace.

Round Hoop Earrings

Small Silver Hoop Earrings

Small Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings

Sterling Silver Hoops Small

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Product picture

Silver filigree half-hoop earrings, 'Sparkling Crescents'

Joyce

May 27, 2018

Wonderful special gift

Product picture

The light dances around the outside edges of the earring while the sun highlights the high quality of the silver metal work. My sister was thrilled with her gift. She also enjoyed the picture of Peru that was enclosed with the earrings. Thank you Joyce McG

Crescent Moon Earring

Good Gift For Women

Wedding Earrings

Filigree Jewellery

Half Hoop Jewellery

Fine Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Product picture

Sterling silver dangle earrings, 'Hummingbird Secrets'

Midge

Aug 9, 2021

Beautiful and detailed

Product picture

I had a major birthday during a pandemic so I decided to celebrate with a tattoo done by my nephew. It is a hummingbird and these lovely earrings make a perfect companion to it. I love those birds and I especially love this version of them done by a talented artist. They are larger than I expected and appear to be kissing my cheeks when I wear them!

Just Because Dangle Earrings

Just Because...

Native Silver Jewelry

Shiny And Beautifully Made

Unique Earrings

Uniquely Beautiful

Featured Artist

Alon Diller Sterling silver jewellery

(455)

"They say 'there's nothing new under the sun,' but there are always thousands of ways to create a piece to renew it."

"For as long as I can remember, I have always been keen on handicrafts, especially jewellery, which I started making when I was a teen. I was... read more

The Fall Catalog

Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.

SHOP THE CATALOG

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Cover Image