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've had these for some time and was not sure how to leave feedback but, I have figured it out. The colors of the stones used in these earring are very complimentary to each other and give me a warm feeling when I wear them. So glad I purchased they go with a lot of clothes I wear.
I love these little earrings. They are great with jeans and tee shirts or dresses. I bought them hoping they matched a tiger's eye necklace I bought in China 30 years ago...and they do! I wear them with and without the necklace. The craftsmanship is exquisite as always with creations by Nareerat.
My aunt was so happy to wear these earrings! As she commented about herself, she said that they made her look young again! Also, it's difficult to find clip-on earrings that are suitable for varied occasions. These were, and still are, ideal!
"To create my jewelry, I like to sit in the middle of the materials ā colorful stones and pearls in many shapes. Nature is a reference for my designs."
Update (August 2021)"Working with you has made me realize that my inner passion is in creatively crafting jewelry. I enjoy creating new designs.... read more
The Catalogue Collection
Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.