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.
Neeru Goel never fails to amaze. Her sense of design and color is extraordinary. These earrings are a piece of art. The interesting shapes and embellishments, and the wonderful use of color via the stones chosen, create something very special indeed.
The earrings are absolutely beautiful. Made very well. Not heavy at all. Iāve been looking at other earrings and bracelets. Will be buying more soon.
I started by buying the blue chalcedony ones, then added these pink ones, and next the other colors. They are so great, they go with every style and are wonderful to match to your pink clothes. They are dainty but sturdy. They are light and easy to wear. I think they are just ageless and if I had nieces I would purchase for them as well as my older friends. So many women love pink, they will come in handy with a lot of pink outfits or just plain all white! The stones match perfectly and are very smooth and well polished. The sterling is bright and shinny. Don't be afraid to buy a few more and in other colors for the price, they are great for self giving or for gifting for your friends and relatives! Thank you for making such a simple dangling pair of earrings that I will be worn over and over! Thanks to the artisan who did beautiful workmanship and chose wonderful stones!
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 mesmerized by our beautiful and intricate silver jewelry. I... read more
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