The Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings 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 spine, chosen for its fine vertebral structure and delicate linear form. Through the moulding and casting process, the spine has been recreated in sterling silver, transforming the original specimen into a lasting wearable object.
Worn as straight studs, these earrings are subtle but distinctive, sitting close to the ear while carrying the quiet detail and symbolism of the Curios Collection. The result is refined, slightly gothic and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original rat spine was carefully moulded before being cast in sterling silver. Slight differences in texture, shape and finish should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: Length: 3 cm
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more earrings.
FAQ
Q1: Are the Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings made from a real rat spine?
A: The finished earrings are made from sterling silver, not bone. The design began with a real rat spine, which was carefully moulded so its fine vertebral structure and natural surface detail could be preserved before being cast in sterling silver.
Q2: 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 created with respect for the original specimen.
Q3: How do I clean the Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish the sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth. Because the spine form has fine, hard-to-reach details, a silver dip may be used occasionally if needed. Always follow the silver dip instructions carefully, rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
The Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings 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 spine, chosen for its fine vertebral structure and delicate linear form. Through the moulding and casting process, the spine has been recreated in sterling silver, transforming the original specimen into a lasting wearable object.
Worn as straight studs, these earrings are subtle but distinctive, sitting close to the ear while carrying the quiet detail and symbolism of the Curios Collection. The result is refined, slightly gothic and connected to my ongoing interest in natural history, ethical specimen work, memory and preservation.
Materials: Sterling silver.
Process: Each pair is handmade in small quantities using traditional silversmithing and casting techniques. The original rat spine was carefully moulded before being cast in sterling silver. Slight differences in texture, shape and finish should be expected as part of the handmade process.
Dimensions: Length: 3 cm
Explore more: View the Curios Collection or browse more earrings.
FAQ
Q1: Are the Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings made from a real rat spine?
A: The finished earrings are made from sterling silver, not bone. The design began with a real rat spine, which was carefully moulded so its fine vertebral structure and natural surface detail could be preserved before being cast in sterling silver.
Q2: 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 created with respect for the original specimen.
Q3: How do I clean the Straight Rat Spine Stud Earrings?
A: Avoid perfumes, lotions and harsh chemicals, and gently polish the sterling silver with a soft jewellery cloth. Because the spine form has fine, hard-to-reach details, a silver dip may be used occasionally if needed. Always follow the silver dip instructions carefully, rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
