traditional ornaments

Perfection resides in the sharp forms that compose these dangle earrings, each making a statement of glamour. Armenia's Mariam Hakobyan crafts these exquisite pieces from sterling silver, decorating the triangle pendants with the region's traditional ornaments. To make the design unique, one earring dangles from a refined chain, allowing a captivating illusion.

Decorated with diamonds of ornately embossed aluminum, an owo (snake) gives shape to an extraordinary staff. Eva Asantewa Amakye carves the piece by hand of seasoned sese wood.

Many African societies regard a person with a staff with respect and dignity. Usually associated with age, an elderly person using a staff is believed to have accumulated vast knowledge and wisdom through the years. Traditionally, the design on a staff tells the societal status and political inclination of the person using it.

Masterfully carving Balinese suar wood, Seji Taram recalls the legend of the dragon, Baru Klinthing. He was born to a concubine of Ki Ageng Mangir II, a rebel, who would never accept a dragon as his son unless the creature could wrap its entire body around Mount Merapi. To accomplish this, Baru Klinthing had to use his tongue to reach his tail. The angry father cut off the dragon's tongue, which became a powerful spear and source of power.

Artist Armine Hovsepyan's sun-themed chandelier earrings reflect the grandeur of Armenia's past through their intricate details. Sterling silver elements in oxidized finishes embellish this majestic pair, whose classic motifs symbolize power and eternity.

Capturing the beauty of the Indian nights, these dangle earrings come to life thanks to Shubhra Singh's luxurious vision. Each pendant boasts sterling silver leaves that grace the ears with sylvan enchantment. To crown the pair, long drops of black onyx dance below—symbolizing power.

Jaifah Aksornsri invokes the presence of Huang, the mythological bird of east Asia that reigns over all other birds. Originally there was a male version too, Feng which later was fused with Huang and therefore became known as Fenghuang, a female entity to be paired with the Chinese dragon. Together they augur a blissful marriage as they represent husband and wife. Fenghuang is known in the West as the Chinese phoenix and she symbolizes the concept of yin and yang, as well as high virtue and grace. Fenghuang's beauty is captured with magnificent artistry in this hand-carved rain tree wood sculpture. Includes an iron stand.