French Iris Silver Studs | Art Nouveau Earrings | Reclaimed Sterling Silver

Wisdom. Truth. The courage to speak.

The iris was the emblem of French royalty—the fleur-de-lis is a stylized iris. It represented faith, wisdom, and courage. In Greek mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow, a messenger between gods and mortals. A bridge between worlds.

Art Nouveau artists loved the iris for its dramatic, flowing lines and its association with transformation and communication. It appeared in the work of Alphonse Mucha, Émile Gallé, and René Lalique—masters of the era who understood that beauty could carry meaning.

When you wear these, you’re carrying that legacy. The die that pressed these irises was cut by hand in Villemin’s Paris workshop in the 1890s, during the height of Art Nouveau’s celebration of nature’s eloquence.

What makes these studs different:

Hand-pressed from reclaimed sterling silver using an antique French die from Villemin, Paris (1890s). One iris and two leaves rendered in flowing, organic lines—a composition that captures both grace and strength.

The patina finish adds depth and contrast, emphasizing the iris’s architectural beauty and symbolic weight.

Technical Details:

• 3/8" (9.5mm) round focal
• Reclaimed sterling silver with patina finish
• Sterling silver posts (8mm)
• Steel backs included
• Hand-pressed using antique French die
• Weight: 0.07 oz per pair

Symbolism:

• Wisdom. Hope. Eloquence.
• The iris reminds you: clarity and truth are acts of courage.

Care:

Sterling silver naturally oxidizes. That's what "tarnish" is. The face of the earring has been processed with a protective coating to preserve the finish. To maintain the protection and the patina, avoid harsh chemicals like hairspray, gel, sunscreen. To brighten, dip in a bowl of mild soapy water and rinse. Don't soak. Dry gently with a soft cloth or paper towel. Brighten the back as needed with a silver polishing cloth. The more they are worn, the less they tarnish. To deepen the patina, wear them often—your skin’s natural oils will enhance the finish.