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 are a beautiful pair of earrings and very well crafted. They look just like the pictures. I just received them yesterday and they came neatly packaged with a personal handwritten note.
I bought these for myself, but they were a little bit bigger than I was expecting. I gave them to a friend who is very glamorous, and they look like they were made for her!
They are so beautiful. I feel lucky to have them. I bought them as an Epiphany gift for myself in celebration of the 3 kings arrival in Bethlehem. I also bought other Novica gifts for my children in celebration of this day for that is what Christmas is all about the birth of Jesus . I feel blessed to have these. Every year my children raise caterpillars to butterflies. I thank the artist so much for this beautiful creation.
"My mom and my dad have been good teachers in crafting jewellery. They taught me how to make it, to be patient. to feel the passion, feel the satisfaction, to do it with my heart."
My jewellery reflects me in life – it's simple, minimalist and natural. I put that character into every piece of jewellery that I create. My... 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.