"Duha Bituon" Star and Mother of Pearl Agong Diamond Earrings
The "Duha Bituon" Star and Mother of Pearl Agong Diamond Earrings pay homage to the celestial bodies that guide us to our ancestors. The mother of pearl above and below the star symbolizes our ties to the ocean and the waters our forefathers and foremothers sailed. The brass agong pieces, shaped like diamonds and hand-crafted, represent the balangay, a vessel that leads us to the ancestral world and safeguards us from malevolent entities.
A balangay (or balanghai) is an ancient wooden boat used by early Austronesian peoples, particularly in the Philippines. These boats were crafted by hand, with wooden planks expertly joined together and secured with wooden dowels. The balangay was mainly used for trade, transportation, and exploration, playing a crucial role in the maritime culture of early Filipino societies.
The balangay is significant not just as a mode of transport but also as a symbol of community and leadership, often associated with the earliest recorded groups of people who lived in organized settlements, called barangays (from the same root word). These boats are known for their durability, and several archaeological finds of balangays dating back to the 4th century CE have been discovered in the Philippines, particularly in Butuan City.
The balangay exemplifies the deep connection between Filipino culture and seafaring, symbolizing exploration, unity, and ancestral heritage.
Wearing these earrings is considered auspicious as they improve our ability to communicate with and heed the wisdom of our ancestors.
How to Care for Brass:
To maintain the beauty of your brass jewelry, regularly clean it with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or oils. Over time, brass may naturally develop a patina. If you prefer a polished look, gently buff with a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely, or use a reputable metal polish. Store your earrings in a cool, dry place to prevent tarnishing.
Designed and blessed in ritual by Katuuran Lyn Pacificar
Earrings length: 4 inches