Discover NOVICA's Onyx Earrings Collection, handcrafted by artisans from around the world. Ranging in color from white to black, onyx has long been held to have protective powers.
Absolutely! Jewelry is an art form that allows makers to express their individuality and cultural influences, and certain designs are used to represent important symbols. For example, Central American artisans incorporate traditional figures, glyphs, and pre-Hispanic folklore. In Mexico, the famous work of artists Angel Ortiz, Maria Belen Nilson, and Rosa Rojo highlight the beauty of Aztec, Mayan and Teotihuacan civilizations. In Peru, powerful symbols, like the Andean chakana, are used to represent humanitys union with the cosmos. Indian artists are extremely tied to their faith and spirituality. Earring designs include chakra gemstones, motifs of Lord Ganesha, and other spiritual imagery. In Bali, the Om symbol is prevalent, as well as the mythological panther-like Barong image, which is seen as a protector spirit. Designs pulled from the natural world, like animal figures, feathers, plants, as well as stones, are used in almost every culture, which then infuses them with their own particular meanings.
Yes! We offer a wide selection of earrings that are made from eco-friendly materials. Cow bone, water buffalo horn, fabric, recycled paper, wood, palm leaf and coconut shells, just to name a few. Product descriptions always list materials used, so be sure to read about each product to discover how artisans are working to ensure sustainability and environmental consciousness.
There is no best when it comes to handmade earrings. However, certain materials lend themselves well to jewelry. Silver and gold, for example, are frequently used to make earrings because of their luster and shine. Each region puts its own unique touch on the art of earring-making. Most use some combination of silver, gold, gemstones, wooden or glass beads, and bones. Some regions, like West Africa, have found ways to introduce up-cycling into the jewelry-making process. Recycled plastic and paper beads, as well as coconut shells are commonly integrated into beautiful works of earring art. Whatever materials used, quality and safety are always our top priorities. Each pair of earrings is tested to ensure its safety. If you do have sensitive skin, you may consider rhodium plated earrings, as rhodium is completely hypoallergenic. You can always find all relevant information about materials in the product description.
"My father was a craftsman of precious stones… [designing] was not difficult for me, since I knew a great deal about gems and their settings. I think it was in my blood."
Latest Update“When I started with NOVICA back in 2006, I used to have only five artisans working with me. Now I have around 35-40 artisans working for... read more
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Onyx Earrings
Known to the ancient Greeks and Romans, onyx was used in Egypt as early as the Second Dynasty for bowls and decorative items. You'll even find the stone in distinctive chess sets. It takes pride of place in Novica's Onyx Earrings Gallery.
Onyx is found abundantly in Chihuahua, Oaxaca and Puebla, providing Novica's Mexico artisans with sleek black onyx to combine with silver for maximum contrast. For a stylish ensemble, chic black handbags accentuate onyx earrings, bracelets or a handcrafted necklace.
Novica's onyx earrings reflect distinct, artistic styles by gifted designers and artisans worldwide. Our onyx earrings are generally made from sterling silver and many feature styles such as dangle, drop, chandelier, and floral. We hope you enjoy them!
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Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.