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.

Featured Reviews

Sterling silver ear cuffs, 'Frog and Turtle'

jam

Jul 11, 2019

Exquisite!

Delicate (but sturdy) and beautifully detailed, these silver frog & turtle ear cuffs are simply exquisite. Gift recipient is absolutely charmed and delighted with them. Thank you so much!!

Ear Cuffs Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Silver Jewelry

No Stone Jewelry

Animal Themed Jewelry

Jewelry

Peridot dangle earrings, 'Night Croakers'

May 23, 2019

ELEGANT/WHIMSICAL

These earrings can be used for "dress" as they are intricately crafted with bone carving and feature a delicate peridot. They can also be casual, displaying playful frogs coordinated with a matching green gemstone. (I love bone carved jewelry as it is used in place of ivory). They are 1.7 inches long to be used for multiple styles. I bought them for a "bohemian" style and they were smaller than expected. Because of the quality and beautiful packaging they can be easily gifted. Also peridot is the designated gem for august.

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Cultured pearl and garnet button earrings, 'Whimsical Frogs'

Stan

Nov 1, 2020

Fun look

This earring set is so fun to see on someone's ears! They truly are whimsical frogs. Be careful about how easily tiny frog feet can get caught up in hair or clothes. Fortunately, these are well made and solid along with their airy, organic look.

Exquisite Quality

Garnet And Pearl Earrings

To Me

Sterling Silver Jewelry

Earrings