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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

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Lapis lazuli and garnet dangle earrings, 'Being Bold'

Joyce

Jan 10, 2018

Unique & Bold

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I like to wear the earrings with the stone in a position that appears to be backward when looking at it in the hand because when on the ear it was possible to see the design from a front view and was flattering to my face. The design of the earrings are too bold and outstanding to be worn with the 'Dove of Love' necklace and the lapis lazuli stone on the necklace is very dark compared the color of lapis lazuli on the necklace. No need to wear a necklace because these beautifully designed earrings can standout on their own.

Dangle Earrings With Posts

Elegant Statement

Lapis Lazuli Fine Jewelry

Statement Piece

Stylish Earrings

Unique Earrings

Dangle Jewellery

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Citrine dangle earrings, 'Sunny Bloom'

Melissa

Jan 19, 2024

Citrine Pawprint

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Interestingly, these fabulous citrine earrings remind me of a dog paw print. They are STUNNING! A large number of carats is usually what I look for in my jewelry pieces as the weight seems to make them stand out more, I also love the black accents circling the stones as it draws the eye. Clever. I applaud your artistry and skill. An absolutely favorite pair. In gratitude, Dr. Melissa

Stylish Earrings

Dangle Jewellery

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

Citrine Jewellery

Gemstone Jewellery

Birthstone Jewellery

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Gold-plated cultured pearl dangle earrings, 'Bearing Fruit'

Anne

May 12, 2022

Elegant and wearable daily!

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These earrings are exquisite! Beautifully proportioned, light in weight, and elegant! I will wear them often, and feel wonderful wearing them!!

Delicate Earrings

Fashionable Earrings

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.

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