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.

Earrings Statement at NOVICA Canada

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$181.99CAD

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~~$178.99CAD~~ $160.88CAD

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Gold vermeil hoop earrings, 'Garden of Eden' - Ornate 22k Gold Vermeil Hoop Earrings from Indonesia

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Lapis lazuli dangle earrings, 'Lapis Mirrors' - Square Lapis Lazuli Dangle Earrings from Mexico

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(359)

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Gold plated sterling silver chandelier earrings, 'Simply Glamorous' - Handmade Gold Plated Sterling Silver Chandelier Earrings

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Simply Glamorous, Handmade Gold Plated Sterling Silver Chandelier Earrings

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Contemporary Spirit, Sterling Silver Modern Drop Earrings from Bali

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$111.99CAD

Carnelian dangle earrings, 'Colorful Kites' - Carnelian and Composite Turquoise Sterling Silver Earrings

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Colorful Kites, Carnelian and Composite Turquoise Sterling Silver Earrings

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Prasiolite and amethyst dangle earrings, 'Paradise of Thoughts' (set of 2) - Polished Prasiolite and Amethyst Dangle Earrings (Set of 2)

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Jade and quartz waterfall earrings, 'Earthy Blend' - Multicolored Quartz and Jade Waterfall Earrings

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Multi-gemstone dangle earrings, 'Harmonious Paradise' (set of 2) - Polished Multi-Gemstone Dangle Earrings (Set of 2)

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Harmonious Paradise, Polished Multi-Gemstone Dangle Earrings (Set of 2)

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Gold plated sterling silver earrings, 'Peacock Plumes' - 18k Gold Plated Sterling Silver Chandelier Earrings

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