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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.

Six Cool Facts About Handmade Earrings

Sterling Silver Vine Half-Hoop Earrings "Garden Waves" Earrings are one of our oldest forms of jewelry, used to signal status, rank, and function, as well as for ornamentation. Today, we may forget the rich history and meaning behind some of... read more

VILLAGE COUNCIL -Six Cool Facts About Handmade Earrings

VILLAGE COUNCIL -WOMENS EARRINGS FAQ     Earrings are one of our oldest forms of jewelry, used to signal status, rank, function, as well as for ornamentation. Today, we may forget the rich history and meaning behind some of... read more

Featured Reviews

Amethyst dangle hoop earrings, 'Buddha's Curls'

Karen

Jan 23, 2023

Multiple purchases all WONDERFUL!

The quality of workmanship and design are exceptional! I love Zayd's stunning jewelry and continue to purchase his work.

Beautiful

Bold

Dangling Hoop Earrings

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Mom To Be Gift

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Special Occasions Earrings

Cultured pearl beaded earrings, 'Aurora Borealis'

B. Eng

Sep 8, 2021

Beautiful earrings!

These earrings are the perfect color. I bought them to wear with an outfit I had and I have found other items I own match with them! I'm very happy with these earrings. I love the artist's work and I'm sure I will purchase more.

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Silver Jewelry

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PEARL Freshwater Jewelry

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Earrings

Sterling silver dangle earrings, 'Mythical Bird'

Aissa2

Jun 1, 2021

Reborn and beautiful

These were purchased because I think the mythical bird they represent is the phoenix. It burns to ashes and is reborn. These are symbolic of that rebirth and on the ear, they definitely are those others will want to come closer to see. They are just the right length. They have enough presence to not get hidden or forgotten. They are special for wearing casually and for a night out on the town. Short hair or hair worn up will definitely draw attention, but they will not get forgotten in long hair either. They are a statement pair of earrings. Definitely detailed in silver of the mythical creature which is ultimately reborn again, and again.

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Featured Artist

Armine Harutyunyan Hand-crafted jewelry

"Hello, I'm Armine Harutyunyan, a passionate silversmith with a unique journey. Initially trained as an architect, I spent over a decade in that... read more

How one Balinese silversmith pours gratitude into his work.

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The All Kinds of Earrings Guide

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The Jalapa Girl Jewelsmiths Believe in Spreading the Love

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The Allure of Turquoise – December’s Birthstone

A gentle breeze caresses your face as your bare feet sink into the warm grains of the golden sand with each... read more

The 5 Pairs of Earrings Every Woman Should Own

If you've ever looked at the jewelry section of any store, you've probably been overwhelmed by the variety of... read more

Silver Earrings – Jewelry For Every Day

I think there are two categories of people--those who love gold jewelry and those who prefer silver. I've... read more

One Man’s Incredible Journey: The Life of Jewelry Artisan, Wilder Paredes

Great talent has always been something of a mystery. Mozart published his first piece of music when he was... read more

Why I’ll Have Good Luck This Holiday Season

Each year as the holidays draw near, I panic. Its not the time crunch or the stress of too many activities... read more

Hand Crafted Jewelry Makes a Stunning Gift!

NOVICA is one of those websites I go to browse and end up on for hours! There is just so much to look at, and... read more

How to Choose Bridal Earrings to Complement Your Style, Theme and Story

Your wedding photos will be with you for the duration of your marriage. When you look at those photos do you... read more

Buana: A Fathers Devotion Through Jewelry Craftsmanship

For decades, Buanas jewelry business has been challenged with survival. He has suffered both financially and... read more

The Secret Magic Behind Hoop Earrings and Their Unmistakable Allure

Have you ever put on a pair of hoop earrings and had them transform your outfit, your whole look?I know I... read more

Love Struck- A Story for Valentines Day.

We asked Zayd Makarim, the incredible sterling silver and gemstone jewelry designer from Bali and Java, what... read more

Ring in Spring: Blossom in this Jewelry Collection

And just like that, SPRING HAS SPRUNG! I don't know about you, but I have been so ready for these longer and... read more

Complete Fall fashion looks with Yellow Citrine Earrings!

I have always loved earrings. Ever since I was a kid. But what I love most are dangle earrings. I love the... read more

Thailand In Full Bloom Artisan Danai Creates Original

Discover the beautiful floral themes of Thailand through handmade jewelry, home dcor, apparel, and more. From... read more

Jewelry Artisan Matta Upholds the Traditions of Thailand

Stunning gemstones that refract the light, hill tribe silver forged to perfection, macram with its delicate... read more

Partnering with NOVICA is our Survival! The story of Jewelry artisan, Sareeyakarn

Sareeyakarn, with her children, Baibua, and Namdon For many Thai artisans, successful partnering with NOVICA... read more

Golden Amber – Drops of Sunlight from the Forest and the Sea

Drops of golden sunlight emerge from the sea and lay as gifts left upon the shore, a treasure for those who... read more

Bollywood Jewelry: Exotic and Beautiful

Bollywood has made a profound impact on cultures all over the world, mesmerizing viewers with dramatic love... read more

Topaz and Citrine: The Magic Behind November’s Shimmering Birthstones

Didn't this year just fly by? I can't believe it's already November. It's a great time to reflect on the... read more

Heartfelt Thanks From the Far Reaches of the World

The presents have been opened. The meal has been eaten. The sun has set on the holidays, and on a particularly... read more

Hope Shines Bright for the New Year

In a year filled with uncertainty, heartache, and change, we find reason to celebrate every small moment of... read more

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The Holiday Catalog

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

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Earrings : Novica Team Favorites

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