Turquoise Thread Crescent Hoop Earrings

• Thread-wrapped hoop construction
• Antique-finish metal accents
• Dangling brass bead charms
• Lobster-clasp hoop closure
• Hand-threaded, no two pairs identical

Each pair is individually hand-threaded, so thread tension, coil spacing and bead placement shift slightly from one pair to the next.

The crescent hoop is a familiar Indian jewelry silhouette, sometimes called chand bali — moon earring — for the way the wire base flares into a half-moon before dropping into fringe.

Thread wrapping turns plain wire into a colored, textured surface without casting or stone-setting. Black and turquoise cotton coils are pulled tight over a brass and copper base, catching on the ridges of the wire to create the ribbed pattern visible along the curve.

The fringe of small brass beads is linked one at a time along the base with jump rings before the earwire is closed. Each pair is wrapped and beaded by hand by women artisans in India, which is why thread tension and bead spacing shift slightly from piece to piece.

• Technique: Thread-wrapped hoop

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth and keep away from water, perfume and lotion to protect the thread and antique finish. Store flat or hanging so the beads and thread do not tangle.