Japanese Kinshi Earrings with Turquoise and Padparadscha Sapphires

The 24k gold thread used to make this pair of earrings is known as Kinshi in Japan. The process involves pounding the gold and applying it to a thin paper which is wound around a core of silk.

The factories that made pure gold embroidery threads closed in the late 20th century and the remaining skeins were sold to textile dealers and collectors. 

This pair of earrings is made with rose kinshi, Kingman turquoise nuggets and polished Padparadscha sapphires. The precious minerals and rare kinshi are captivating in their simplicity.

The oval ear wires are from Jaipur and are hand-made from copper plated in 18k gold. The earrings measure 90mm x 12mm