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Earrings Leaf and Tree

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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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Sterling silver flower earrings, 'Thai Flora'

Cindy

Sep 28, 2017

Beautifully Detailed

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This is the second pair of earrings I have purchased from Jantana. They are truly a work of art and very unique and original. They are delicate but sturdy and very well made. Love her work!!!

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Leaf and Tree Jewellery

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Sterling silver ear cuff earrings, 'Foliage and Flowers' (pair)

Patricia

Jul 30, 2018

Beautiful and Unique

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These ear cuffs are just lovely! They are certainly created by a very talented artist. Beautiful and light weight and comfortable to wear.

Excellent Value

Excellent Value Ear-Cuffs

Native Silver Jewelry

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Sterling silver dangle earrings, 'Living Forest'

Alison

Mar 9, 2021

Pretty

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These earrings are well made. They are about 1" long, so they are good for people who like to wear smaller-sized earrings.

Beautiful Craftsmanship.

Silver Forest Earrings

Sterling Forest Earrings

Dangle Jewellery

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Leaf and Tree Jewellery

Featured Artist

Panapai Handblown glass figurines and jewelry

(35)

We are grateful for the journey we have undertaken, driven by our love for this art form.

"Hello! My name is Panapai, and I specialize in creating blown glass products, particularly in various animal shapes and earrings. My wife... read more

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