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.
This is my third pair of this earring style, I have two other pairs because I just love how dainty they are while making a big impact. The soft color of this pair matches so many of my clothes. They're very well-crafted and won't break the bank!
Just gorgeous! The stones shimmer and sparkle; the earrings have movement which shows off their beauty. Even better in person. They look just as good with jeans and t-shirts and they do with more formal attire. I love everything about them. High recommended.
These are much bigger than I thought they would be, they are the perfect hoop size and are absolutely beautiful. The color of the stone is gorgeous. I just received them today and love them so much I just ordered another pair in case anything happens to these. Absolutely beautiful craftwork. Highly recommend!
"What I like best about this craft is how it takes my mind in different directions to come up with new designs. I hope to keep going until I touch the sky!"
"I come from a beautiful city in Gujarat, where I was born in 1984. As a child, I was mesmerised by our beautiful and intricate silver jewellery.... read more
The Holiday Catalog
Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.