Stone Earrings

Earrings were used throughout the history of Mesoamerica. There are some forms and materials that are very characteristic of a certain period. For example, jade earrings and other green stones with the form of a four petal flower (with filigree, frequently cast) are very typical in the Classic period, and especially in cities of great importance, such as Teotihuacan. In addition, the crystal rock or gold earrings with turquoise inlays are very typical of the Post-Classic.

These pieces are similar to others of the Classic period. Earrings in all Mesoamerican societies for which we have records were used to mark the status of a person. They were hierarchical jewelry. Wearing them or not marked a difference, but in addition to the size and type of earring, it expressed belonging to a social class, and the function and level of authority it exercised. In the case of the Mexica and other peoples of the Post-Classic, we know that only individuals belonging to the noble class could use earrings, and if a plebeian or commoner used them they could be condemned to death.

Earrings are reels that are threaded between the lobe and the cartilage of the ear, and therefore a considerable piercing is required. Normally an individual would not go from having no piercing to a very large one without a process that would give the ear a suitable shape. In the case of nobles, children received small piercings for equally small pieces given that their right to use the earrings was not in question: their status was guaranteed by heritage.

As regards to the status acquired which, notably, would include warriors, there was also a hierarchy of luck that might afford a brave warrior the prestige of the high rank of great captain or master of youth. The most expensive materials, the finest work and the largest dimensions corresponded to the highest rank.