Earrings Sun and Moon

74 items

The Village Council

Your answers straight from the village experts

+ - Are there any earring designs or symbols that have a particular meaning?

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.

+ - Are there any eco-friendly women’s earrings?

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.

+ - What materials are best for women’s earrings?

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.

+ - 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

Amethyst hoop earrings, 'Sleeping Moons'

Autumn Aura

May 30, 2020

Very Pretty!

I’m loving these. I will note that you see the moon on one side, silver anchoring on back. Depending on how your ears are pierced or naturally angled, they may lay differently than expected. Medium-weight. Very striking when worn with hair up, I’ve had many compliments on them already!

A Crescent Moon Jewelry

Bali

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Silver Jewelry

Earrings

Garnet dangle earrings, 'Love in the Moonlight'

Autumn Aura

Mar 25, 2022

Radiant and reflective!

I’m definelty a collector of Made Wardika’s beautiful work, as I own many pieces of his wearable art. These are on a whole different level. Made my heart skip a beat when I saw them in person. Light-weight, Dainy yet medium-size earring, and high-quality. They really catch the light! 10/10 would recommend. Really love this style! Just a suggestion: I’m really hoping for a matching necklace in this particular style, and for matching rings to the moon series!

Moon Themed Gifts

Dangle Jewelry

Bone Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Peridot dangle earrings, 'Cheek to Cheek'

Brigida

Jan 30, 2022

INTERESTING!

I love these romantic earrings. I purchased the matching pendant and I will feel so feminine wearing these pieces. I love the romantic image of the couple on each earring. JUST AMAZING ART!!! I am more than delighted, more than happy. I cannot express how happy I feel just looking at these earrings. SO INSPIRATIONAL!

Crescent Moon Earring

Crescent Moon Jewelry!

Moon Face Jewelry

Star And Moon Jewelry

Dangle Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Featured Artist

Made Wardika Carved bone and leather jewelry

(1081)

"My designs are inspired by the rich cultures and art of Bali traditions."

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