Entwined
New earrings inspired by the Japanese art of knot-tying
A nod to the Japanese art of knot-tying, the Entwined Hoop Earrings are my take on classic hoops.
Japan has a long tradition of knots and ropes as art. Ranging in use from practical to decorative and even erotic, Japanese knots capture the balance between function and beauty.
Examples of knotted decorations and traditions can be found with a visit to almost any temple, but two specific and well-known forms include Mizuhiki and Shibari.
Mizuhiki (水引) is the ancient craft of tying cords and sashes for formal gifts. If you have visited Japan, you’ve probably seen ornate knots sealing envelopes or even hanging from tourist shops.
Shibari (縛り) originated as a method of restraining captives but evolved and is now best known in the context of erotic rope bondage.
I really love how these earrings turned out. I can see myself wearing them everyday and also to complement occasion looks. I plan to incorporate knots in other pieces and experiment with more complicated knotted designs as well.
The making of the Entwined Hoop Earrings
Like with all my pieces, I used Mitsuro (the traditional Japanese wax) to create the ribboned knot. I wanted movement in the earring, so I decided to hang the knot as a charm off of a hoop so that it swings as the wearer walks.
I tried a lot of different shapes in wax before finding the right one. I then tested it in silver before bringing it to 18 karat gold. From idea to final piece, the entire process took around two months.
Near-final designs
I have two new ring designs that I am really excited about: the Fallen Sakura Petal Ring and the Ribbon Ring.
I made them both combining different techniques including wax work (with Mitsuro and other waxes) and fabrication. The bands of both rings are simple and clean which I think make the whimsical central designs pop.
After I resize them a bit to fit my fingers (the current silver models are large for me!) I will bring them to gold. I lean toward 18k yellow gold for the Ribbon Ring and 18k pink/rose gold for the Fallen Sakura Petal Ring.
Hoop in-progress
These silver hoop earrings made using Mitsuro have been in my earlobes non-stop this past week! They are very comfortable and a great size.
I want to try a version of them with a pearl dangling beneath - pearls would go really well with the liquid, twisting pattern of the hoop.
It’s very fulfilling to see my little collection coming together. I’ve been working on a number of pieces for the past few months that in the next several weeks should reach their final versions!