The Mole Hand Studs are handcrafted sterling silver earrings made in Adelaide, South Australia by Olivia Dryden. They belong to the Curios Collection, where natural history, memento mori symbolism and careful craftsmanship meet.
During my Helpmann Academy Fellowship in 2018, while studying taxidermy in London, I had the rare opportunity to work with a deceased mole specimen. A mould was carefully created from the original mole hand to preserve its fine structure, tiny proportions and natural surface detail.
The original specimen was then recreated in sterling silver, transforming a delicate natural form into a lasting piece of wearable jewellery. The studs are available on their own, or with the option of a freshwater pearl drop beneath the mole hand, adding a soft organic contrast to the sculptural silver form.
The result is intimate, quietly unusual and deeply connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical taxidermy, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original mole hand was carefully moulded, allowing its small anatomical details to be captured before being cast in sterling silver. Natural variation is part of the handmade process, so slight differences in texture and finish should be expected.
Dimensions: 1.5cm length.
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more earrings.
FAQ
Q1: Are the animal specimens ethically sourced?
A: Yes. Animal specimens used in Olivia Dryden Jewellery are sourced from animals that have passed from unpreventable causes, and each piece is made with respect for the original specimen.
Q2: How do I clean the Mole Hand Stud Earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth.
Q3: Is the Mole Hand Stud Earrings suitable as a gift?
A: Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery branded velvet pouch and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, detail and meaning.
The Mole Hand Studs are handcrafted sterling silver earrings made in Adelaide, South Australia by Olivia Dryden. They belong to the Curios Collection, where natural history, memento mori symbolism and careful craftsmanship meet.
During my Helpmann Academy Fellowship in 2018, while studying taxidermy in London, I had the rare opportunity to work with a deceased mole specimen. A mould was carefully created from the original mole hand to preserve its fine structure, tiny proportions and natural surface detail.
The original specimen was then recreated in sterling silver, transforming a delicate natural form into a lasting piece of wearable jewellery. The studs are available on their own, or with the option of a freshwater pearl drop beneath the mole hand, adding a soft organic contrast to the sculptural silver form.
The result is intimate, quietly unusual and deeply connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical taxidermy, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original mole hand was carefully moulded, allowing its small anatomical details to be captured before being cast in sterling silver. Natural variation is part of the handmade process, so slight differences in texture and finish should be expected.
Dimensions: 1.5cm length.
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more earrings.
FAQ
Q1: Are the animal specimens ethically sourced?
A: Yes. Animal specimens used in Olivia Dryden Jewellery are sourced from animals that have passed from unpreventable causes, and each piece is made with respect for the original specimen.
Q2: How do I clean the Mole Hand Stud Earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth.
Q3: Is the Mole Hand Stud Earrings suitable as a gift?
A: Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery branded velvet pouch and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, detail and meaning.
