Pre-Columbian Poporo Earrings

A Gourd of Memory in Gold: Poporo Earrings

A tiny rounded vessel with a slim neck hangs from each ear in gold plate. These Poporo earrings measure 0.4 in by 0.8 in.

These Colombian gold earrings reinterpret one of the best known objects of ancient Colombia.

Product Details

• Material: 24 Karat gold plate over pewter
• Posts: Sterling silver
• Dimensions: 0.4 in x 0.8 in each
• Product number: 7955
• Style: Quimbaya gourd earrings, lime container earrings
• Origin: Made in USA

What a Poporo Is

A poporo is a container for lime powder, used with chewed coca leaves. The metal neck was usually joined to a gourd body.

A dipper passed through the neck to scoop the lime. Lime container earrings shrink that tool to wearable size.

Quimbaya Poporos

Early Quimbaya poporos, made in Colombia's Cauca Valley between about 300 BC and 700 AD, often show realistic figures. Scholars link some of them to fertility.

In some communities men receive a poporo when they reach adulthood. Quimbaya gourd earrings nod to that rite.

Wearing and Display

The sterling silver posts suit most ears. Wear them with hair back. Wipe with a soft cloth.

Colombian gold earrings are light for daily wear. See more in our Museum Jewelry Earrings.

About the Poporo

The poporo is a national image in Colombia, shown on currency. It reminds people of food, partnership, memory and meditation. They keep that meaning small and close. Lime container earrings tell an Andean story at the ear. Quimbaya gourd earrings and Colombian gold earrings alike keep it vivid.

For More Reading from the Web

• See the gold neck of an early Quimbaya poporo. Poporo earrings take their shape from vessels like this. Neck of Poporo (Lime Container) - The Metropolitan Museum of Art