Opuntia Medium Hoop Cactus Earrings with Gemstones

These handmade earrings are inspired by the desert and cast from actual skeletons of Prickly Pear cacti (skeleton closeup shown). Using the lost wax casting process, each piece starts with a carefully selected section of Prickly Pear skeleton, which is then hand cast using recycled sterling silver. The cast piece is then framed with sterling silver wire. 14k gold settings hold Moissanite gemstones. Moissanite is a lab created gemstone that is comparable to a diamond in clarity, color and hardness, but has little environmental impact. The Moissanite gems in these earrings are 2mm in diameter. The lily hook earring focals measure 3/4" wide and 1.5" long; 1.25" wide including hook wire.The earrings are oxidized, or blackened. The result is a gunmetal look. Materials: Sterling Silver Method: Lost Wax Casting Finish: Oxidized (Blackened) Sterling Silver