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.
I recently purchased a traditional Oaxacan embroidered dress for a festive gala and paired this with the Colorful Huichol Circles earrings. It was an incredible match and I received so many compliments. Adriana did an amazing job with the colors, the bead work, and the size and style. Even the chosen clasps were solid, allowing you to move them to more easily adjust or remove, without there being a concern of the earrings falling out.
I fully plan to purchase from Adriana again - she is fantastic!
My skin is in the Winter palette, and these white pearl earrings with silver-colored threads look great on me. I converted them for non-pierced ears, and they are still the right length. They can dress up a casual outfit. Very classy-looking. They seem like real pearls.
"I craft jewellery with tiny colourful seed beads we call 'chaquira.' I learned from my parents and they were taught by their grandparents; this family art has been handed down for generations."
Update (July, 2019)I am very grateful because you allow me to give work to members of my family and to continue supporting their growth. This is... read more
The Holiday Catalog
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