Aten Ra Sun and Cowrie Earrings – 14K Gold-Filled Posts

In short: Aten Ra earrings, a radiant sun disk topped with a cowrie, in gilded zamak on 14K gold-filled posts. They are 4.5 cm (1.8 in) tall, stay lightweight and can be worn every day.

A piece of light: you choose it to brighten your face, and to wear two symbols that speak of life, prosperity and protection.

Aten Ra, the sun disk

In ancient Egypt, Aten Ra represents the sun disk, source of life, light and divine energy. The sun held a central place in Egyptian spirituality.

The cult of Aten reached its peak under the reign of Akhenaten, who made it the supreme deity. The disk was depicted with rays ending in hands, a symbol of the blessings it bestowed on humans. Even today, Aten Ra evokes enlightenment, rebirth and life force.

The cowrie, shell of prosperity

At the center of the disk, the cowrie recalls the shell long used as currency in Africa, and associated with prosperity and protection. To learn more, read The cowrie in Africa: from ancient currency to contemporary jewelry.

Details

What is gold-filled?

A layer of 14-karat gold alloy (585/1000) is bonded to brass by heat and pressure. It makes up at least one twentieth of the component's weight, according to the American 14/20 GF standard. It is not solid gold, nor “gold plating” as defined by French regulations (a layer of at least 3 microns deposited by electroplating): the gold layer is much thicker and does not flake like a gilt finish.

What is zamak?

Zamak is an alloy of zinc, aluminum, magnesium and copper, widely used in jewelry making. Its name comes from the German initials of these metals. It may oxidize slightly over time: cleaning it with a suitable product restores its shine.

How to wear them

With braided or pinned-up hair, the rays of the disk frame the face. With a black outfit, the gold stands out fully; with a gold necklace, they make a solar set. They go particularly well with the Aten Ra double-wear necklace.

Care

Avoid contact with water, perfume and chemicals. Take the earrings off before showering, swimming and exercising, and wipe them with a soft cloth after each wear.

Frequently asked questions

What does Aten Ra represent?

The sun disk of ancient Egypt, source of life and light, whose cult peaked under Akhenaten.

What are these earrings made of?

The disk and the cowrie are gilded zamak; the posts, which go through the ear, are 14K gold-filled.

How big are they?

4.5 cm (1.8 in) tall.

Are they heavy?

No, they are lightweight and comfortable for everyday wear.

What does the cowrie symbolize?

Once a currency in Africa, the cowrie is associated with prosperity and protection.

Can I return earrings?

Yes. Like all our creations, they come with 14 days to change your mind after delivery. Send them back unworn, in their original packaging.

Can I give them as a gift?

Yes. With no size to guess, they are a luminous, meaningful piece to give to a mother, a sister, a friend or a partner, for a birthday, Christmas or Mother's Day.

Can I see them before buying?

Yes, at our shop, Kama The Shop, 51 rue Vauvenargues, Paris 18th.

To go further

In the same spirit: the Djed or Shen earrings plated in fine gold, the gold-tone Ankh necklace and the Cowrie earrings. Browse the Ankh and Kemetic jewelry collection and all our African earrings.

Kaolack Créations

Kaolack Créations offers jewelry and clothing made in Africa, in direct contact with the artisans. We work with each of them over the long term, and we pay the price they set. Find us at kaolack-creations.com and at Kama The Shop, 51 rue Vauvenargues, Paris 18th.