The Duomo di Monreale Earrings
Limited edition (just 2 pairs for now) pink and red handmade Sicilian ceramic crosses on hypoallergenic zamak rose studs custom made in Milan, electroplated in matte 18k rose gold. They have a stud system for pierced ears only, measure 7cm in length and each earring weighs 1.5 grams. They may take up to 1 week for delivery or you´re welcome to pick up in Bardon if you´re in Brisbane.
These gorgeous ceramics are handmade by a family business from Cantania in Sicily which the young sons have started taken over with lots of fresh, fun ideas. When I went to visit them the whole family was there, their son´s dog, their cousins and papá. Their mum ran out to get gelato for everyone, it reminded me of my similarly sweaty India days when I would drink 10 Chai Teas a day visiting craftsmen and suppliers. I love how welcome they made me feel.
These earrings are inspired by the Cathedral in Monreale - built between 1170 and 1189 it is UNESCO World Heritage listed. Situated in Palermo, it is regarded as the most beautiful of the Norman churches in Sicily. The mosaics were made with 2200 kg of pure gold, experts have estimated. Its Byzantine mosaics are among the most magnificent in the world.
Zamak is an alloy blend of zinc, aluminium, magnesium and copper which makes it suitable for sensitive skin types, very durable and great for silver and gold plating. These earring bases were made to order on the beautiful Belearic Island of Menorca by a family run studio that started back in 1945. I like to keep my designs as Spanish and local as possible.
Photography: Santi G Barros | Models: Sara Madoz & Silvia | MUAH: Raquel Bueno & Vanessa
