Artist and REZILIENCE founder Warren Montoya was struck by the sheer amount of turquoise worn by patrons of SWAIA’s Indian market. Several of these collectors were wearing pieces (some would say small boulders) of turquoise so large that there was no room for thoughtful design.
For many Indigenous peoples in the southwest, Turquoise is considered to be a sacred material, yet it’s popularity is driving overconsumption and continual extraction, and many supplies are dwindling. This series of hand painted wood earrings are Warren's response and aim to provide a sustainable alternative and comparable design! The use of wood hand painted with the same hue of this valuable mineral offers the collector of Indigenous made jewelry a way to tread lighter on the earth.
Dimensions: 1.25” W x 2.75’ T each side.
Materials: Oak wood & Acrylic Paint, Sterling Silver Plated Ear Wires