Pre-Columbian Inspired Earrings: Valdivia Stone and Tolima Roller Seal Design

A Spectacled Idol in Gold: Valdivia Stone Earrings

A narrow abstract figure with round, spectacle-like eyes hangs from each post, ending in a bead. These Valdivia stone earrings are 1.75 in long and 0.6 in wide.

Choose black onyx, red carnelian or blue lapis for the bead. The Tolima roller seal earrings pair a stone with gold.

Product Details

• Material: 24 Karat gold plate over pewter
• Posts: Sterling silver
• Bead choices: Black onyx, red carnelian or blue lapis
• Dimensions: 0.6 in W x 1.75 in L
• Style: Pre-Columbian figure earrings, Cycladic style earrings
• Origin: Made in USA

The Valdivia Stone Figure

The Valdivia culture lived on the coast and lowlands of Ecuador. Its stone figures, mostly made around 2300 to 2000 BC, are highly stylized.

They blend human and animal features. Pre-Columbian figure earrings borrow that bold simplicity.

Echoes of Tolima and the Cyclades

The design also recalls a Tolima roller seal, used to print patterns. Its spectacle eyes are the key feature.

The clean lines resemble Cycladic idols of ancient Greece. Cycladic style earrings tie two far-apart worlds together. Tolima roller seal earrings do the same.

Wearing and Display

The sterling silver posts suit most ears. Wear the Valdivia stone earrings with hair up. Wipe with a soft cloth.

Tolima roller seal earrings suit dark clothes. See more in our Museum Jewelry Earrings.

About Valdivia Art

Few Valdivia figures come from excavations, and forgeries are common. That makes careful tributes useful. These Valdivia stone earrings honor the style without claiming to be ancient. They bring a rare, abstract look to a modern wardrobe.

For More Reading from the Web

• Read about the Valdivia figurines of Ecuador and why their study is so tricky. Pre-Columbian figure earrings echo their look. Valdivia Figurines - Trafficking Culture