Your answers straight from the village experts
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.
By Briagh
These earrings were ordered as a birthday present for my neighbour and let me say, she will be lucky to get them!They arrived yesterday, earlier than the expected delivery time and were packaged extremely well for their long journey. Not only are they equisitely made, but the design of the earrings are unigue yet stay true to the om design.Im very, very happy with this purchase and wholeheartedly thank Lalana and Novica!
By Marianne
I just received my Peaceful Hamsa earrings & I am thrilled with the beautiful simplicity created by Lalana in Thailand! This is my first experience with NOVICA: I shall return & will share your positive story of empowering artisans & preserving global culture. You all spread great karma!! :)
By Bender
Even more beautiful than you can see in the photos, these virtually talismanic earrings never fail to get compliments. The workmanship is excellent and the finish flawless.They are the perfect size. Great for any ocassion.
"I currently work with more than 100 families, including Karen silversmiths, who help me to create handcrafted jewelry."
"My name is Lalana Thawiaphiradimani and I was born Northern Thailand to a big family with ten brothers and sisters. My family was poor, but my... read more
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