MSI393

SILVER CONE WEIGHT HOOK EARRINGS – GOLDEN TRIANGLE (BURMA / THAILAND)

Elegant in their simplicity, this pair of traditional cone weight earrings embodies the functional beauty of highland adornment from the Golden Triangle region. Worn by groups such as the Wa, Bwe (Bre), and Kayah, these earrings were designed not only as decoration but as markers of identity—often worn in multiples to gradually stretch the earlobes, a long-standing cultural aesthetic.

The tapered cone form with curved hook is characteristic of regional craftsmanship, typically made from medium-grade silver alloys rather than high-purity silver. The soft, aged patina and smooth surface wear suggest late 20th to early 21st century production, following traditional forms that have remained largely unchanged for generations.

Well-balanced and fully intact, this pair offers both wearable appeal and ethnographic interest—an authentic expression of living tribal tradition from mainland Southeast Asia.

Details:

Origin: Golden Triangle (Burma / Thailand)

Culture: Wa / Bwe (Bre) / Kayah (attributed)

Material: Silver alloy (Tested medium silver content, typical for region)

Period: Late 20th – early 21st century

Condition: Very good, nice natural patina, fully intact

Measurements: Length 42 mm | Width 15 mm

Earlobe opening: approx. 3 mm

Total weight: 17.52 grams (pair)

Reference:
*- A WORLD OF EARRINGS AFRICA – ASIA – AMERICA – PAGE: 222 - BY ANN VAN CUTSEM – SKIRA
*- FROM THE HANDS OF THE HILLS - PAGES: 66, 22, 170 - MARGARET CAMPBELL - THE THAI HILLCRAFT FOUNDATION - MEDIA TRANSASIA
*- THE VANISHING TRIBES OF BURMA - PAGES: 130 - 132 - RICHARD K. DIRAN - AMPHOTO ART AND IMPRINT OF WATSON - GUPTILL - PUBLICATIONS / NEW YORK

Sold as a pair