Searching for a Desert Muse
The inspiration for these earrings comes from an area in Tolar Grande, Argentina. If you have ever googled images of the Ojos de Mar, (roughly translated: Eyes of the Ocean) usually what pops up are these incredible scenes of contrasting colours, of deep cerulean to zircon blue pools laid against the bright orange and tan landscape of South America. This geographic colour palette was primary in creating this design.
Red agate stones are at the centre, surrounded by golden tan and orange beads representing the earthy tones from Tolar. Meanwhile, blues representing the natural pools of water include what are called miracle beads, which have a lustre that reflect light, giving them a supernatural glow.
While writing this post, it reminded me of a previous research project which investigated a pigment of ancient Mesoamerica known as Azul Maya. It is a brilliant blue pigment that was widely used by the Mayas representing water and rain, a similar colour to these natural pools in Argentina. The personification of water came in the form of rain deities, whose representative blue colour was so vital to their belief system, because it meant continuation in growing crops and the survival of their civilization.
….And this could easily turn into a lengthy essay-research-discussion, but let’s wrap this post up. With the arid landscape of South America, it is not too difficult to understand why blue was a popular and sacred colour used. So, to whoever claims these blue and orange Ojos, good omens and blessings will follow – and perhaps some rain will follow too, bring your umbrella!
