Over $140.2 million USD sent to artisans so far!

Artisan Subscription Box

Balinese Earrings

4,228 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, 'Mythical Bird'

Aissa2

Jun 1, 2021

Reborn and beautiful

Product picture

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.

Dangle Jewellery

Sterling Silver Jewellery

Silver Jewellery

No Stone Jewellery

Animal Themed Jewellery

Product picture

Amethyst dangle earrings, 'Sparkling Dew'

Karen

Dec 16, 2020

A favorite!

Product picture

I love the depth of color of these amethysts, and the filigree sterling silver setting allows light to shine through, adding to the beauty of these earrings

Earrings For Jeans

Gift For Myself

Intricate Design

Lavender Earrings

Sparkle Jewelry

Dangle Jewellery

Product picture

Sterling silver dangle earrings, 'Dragon Splendor'

Amy C.

Mar 5, 2018

Perfect dragons!

Product picture

Nyoman Rena has done a superlative job. Both the attention to detail and the craftsmanship are outstanding. They are even more beautiful than pictured. Take note of the right/left pairing and the fact that the dragons are subtly different. I will definitely look for work by this artist in the future!

All Purpose Dangle Earrings

Fantasy Earrings

Jewelry For Dresses

Naga Dragon Jewelry

Wire Earrings<3

Featured Artist

Nyoman Rena Sterling silver jewelry

(2218)

"I give thanks to God because, after having children, there was somehow always extra income to be found. I expect that my children can continue this workshop someday. "

Latest Update"After learning to craft silver jewelry, I borrowed capital from my parents to start my own workshop. Things weren't as easy as I... 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.

SHOP THE CATALOGUE

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Product Image

Catalog Cover Image