Over $136.5 million USD sent to artisans so far!

Artisan Subscription Box

Earrings Dance and Music

20 items

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

Product picture

Sterling silver dangle earrings, 'Melody in Me'

Angela

Aug 6, 2020

So unique and pretty.

Product picture

These beautiful earrings are dainty and classy with a touch of personality. I have never seen anything like them. I absolutely love them.

Delicate Earrings

Gift For Musician

Music Themed Jewelry

Dangle Jewellery

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Dance and Music Jewellery

Product picture

Sterling silver button earrings, 'Sol Key'

Aegina

Jul 18, 2021

My daughter loved these!

Product picture

They are small enough to be delicate, but they make a statement and also just look very pretty on her ears. A great pair for everyday wear and for pairing with others (she has multiple ear piercings.)

Earrings For Jeans

Gift For Musician

Girly Earrings!

Music Themed Jewelry

Second Hole Earrings

Button Jewellery

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Featured Artist

Kadek Aridyah Sterling silver and gemstone jewelry

(33)

"Always be happy, no matter the situation. Because that's life--sometimes up, sometimes down. Always be grateful in any situation."

“I was born in Denpasar. My parents used to work as silversmiths, and my mother supported us from creating designs and shaping them into crafts. They... read more

The Holiday Catalog

Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.

SHOP THE CATALOG

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Cover Image