"Priestess" Onyx and Sterling Silver Earrings

Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

Priestess Jewelry – Minoan Crete Black Mussel Hinge Earrings

The hieroglyphic influenced text depicted on our Priestess jewelry earrings dates back to 1450-1375 B.C. in Minoan Crete where an early civilization lived on the largest of the Greek islands. The Minoans were influenced by nearby Egypt—particularly their fresco and goldsmith arts—and as a culture enjoyed a particular reverence for their women and a woman's place in society.

The Minoan culture was all but unknown until the early 1900's, though it served as an important bedrock for Greek cultures that followed. The vertical script on this priestess jewelry is known as Iereia, which means priestess. The Minoans worshipped a female nature goddess, and their art reflects this in its feminine depictions. We now know that priestesses were particularly important figureheads in Minoan culture.

This pair of unique silver jewelry earrings was designed around the Minoan script in Zealandia's signature moveable hinge setting that highlights the script as a tablet. The polished black mussel offers striking contrast to the sterling silver setting and also helps bring out the intricate script. Black mussel shell offers a unique connection to the sea where it grows, lending this pair a coastal influence.