The Rat Jaw 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.
The design began with a real rat jaw, chosen for its fine bone structure, small teeth and delicate natural form. Through the moulding and casting process, these details are transformed into sterling silver, creating a lasting metal version of the original specimen.
The result is intimate, quietly unusual and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation. Worn as simple studs, they offer a subtle but distinctive way to carry the symbolism of bones, teeth and animal forms within contemporary jewellery.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. Slight differences in texture, shape and finish should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: 2.5 cm 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 earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth. Because these earrings have small sculptural details, a silver dip may be used occasionally if needed. Always follow the silver dip instructions carefully, rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
Q3: Are the Rat Jaw Studs suitable as a gift?
A: Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery velvet bag and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, natural detail and quiet symbolism.
The Rat Jaw 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.
The design began with a real rat jaw, chosen for its fine bone structure, small teeth and delicate natural form. Through the moulding and casting process, these details are transformed into sterling silver, creating a lasting metal version of the original specimen.
The result is intimate, quietly unusual and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation. Worn as simple studs, they offer a subtle but distinctive way to carry the symbolism of bones, teeth and animal forms within contemporary jewellery.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. Slight differences in texture, shape and finish should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: 2.5 cm 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 earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth. Because these earrings have small sculptural details, a silver dip may be used occasionally if needed. Always follow the silver dip instructions carefully, rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
Q3: Are the Rat Jaw Studs suitable as a gift?
A: Yes. Each piece is packaged in an Olivia Dryden Jewellery velvet bag and is suited to collectors who appreciate handmade jewellery with story, natural detail and quiet symbolism.
