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 a talker like me who loves the meanings of the chakras. I appreciate the intricate detail, and that they are well-made by Bhavya.
This lovely floral design’s centre is accentuated by an om symbol, that is thought by many to have a strong meditative vibe. Everyone comments on their unique artistic design of high polish that is accentuated by the dark oxidation contrast. They make a big statement but are small enough to be so comfortable that you’ll forget you’re wearing them until someone compliments their beauty! This artistry is truly “heavenly inspired”
What a great buy! The earrings are lovely, a good size and at a good price! They are much nicer than I expected. They came well packaged, enclosed in a natural fabric pouch and arrived quickly!! I loved the earrings so much I already ordered another pair as a gift!
Unfortunately , I was not able to upload a picture nor a video. But trust the earring are a great buy!! Very happy with this purchase!??
"Initially, I was considered a girl who was designing just for fun. But when I gave the artisans my designs and ideas to create the items, they started to take me seriously."
I'm Bhavya Jain, daughter of Alok Jain, who has been featured artisan for a long time now. I was born in 1997 in New Delhi.As a child, I loved... read more
The Holiday Catalog
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