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.
Love these earrings. I've already worn them three times. Such a lovely and versatile design. The quality of the stones as well as the quality of the workmanship is beyond impressive. So glad I bought them. Also, this is the third piece of jewelry I've ordered from Novica, and it won't be the last.
These earrings are a cut above what I was expecting and I had already made plans to return them as I bought another set of Novica earrings. Well, they are so beautiful I may just have to keep them! The Peridot stones are absolutely breathtaking and of course the setting is perfectly executed. I give credit fully to Buana for the masterful presentation. Simply gorgeous! Worth 6 stars.
"Many of my designs are inspired by traditional Balinese arts and crafts combined with the current jewelry trends."
"I'm Ketut Sulastri and I make jewelry. I'm a married woman who is known to be a hard worker, and a diligent and happy woman. I was born to... 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.