Monarch Keum-boo Earrings - 24K Gold on Oxidized Silver

Pair of monarch butterfly-wing shaped earrings in keum-boo on a white background

Monarch Keum-boo Earrings - 24K Gold on Oxidized Silver | Small

Keum-boo with 14k Gold Filled Ear Wires

$170.00

Monarch Keum-boo Earrings - 24K Gold on Oxidized Silver | Small

$170.00

Made to Order: 2 - 4 weeks lead time

Complimentary shipping on orders over $150

$170.00

These petite Monarch earrings elevate the iconic butterfly through the ancient art of Keum-boo - intricate wing patterns rendered at a delicate 1.25-inch scale with 24K gold meticulously hand-applied to oxidized sterling silver. The dramatic contrast between bright gold accents and deep black silver creates dimensional depth that catches light beautifully, while the smaller proportions make them ideal everyday companions. Substantial enough to feel like wearable art yet refined enough to become a daily favorite, these honor transformation through centuries-old craftsmanship. For those who carry change quietly, with intention and elegance.

SEE PRODUCT DETAILS BELOW

Return Policy and FAQ

1.25 inches in length

Keum-boo - Each earring is gilded in 24k gold by hand. The earrings are created in pairs, making each set distinct.

Customization available in 4 to 6 weeks

Hand-formed with hypoallergenic ear wires

Ear wire options - 14k gold or 14k gold-filled

Keum-boo is an ancient Korean gilding technique dating back 3,000 years. Each design uses pure 24K gold carefully applied to the silver surface, then heated and burnished until the molecules permanently fuse - creating a bond that won't flake or wear away. I source my gold specifically from suppliers who specialize in Keum-boo sheet, ensuring the highest quality and lasting brilliance. Because of this monarch design's intricate details, every piece is a true labor of love requiring patience and precision. The result is remarkably resilient and maintains its warm luster permanently with proper care. Shadow meets radiance with oxidized silver and brilliant 24K gold edges.

Earwire Options:
14K gold-filled ear wires - Gold-filled is 14K gold permanently bonded to a base metal - not plated. The thick gold layer won't wear off and is hypoallergenic, offering lasting beauty at an accessible price.

14K gold ear wire - 14K gold is a solid gold alloyed with other metals for added durability, 58.3% pure gold. It's hypoallergenic, won't tarnish, and maintains its warm luster permanently—the gold standard for fine jewelry that lasts generations.

BRIGHT STERLING SILVER
Your piece is sealed to prevent natural oxidation, but sterling silver will eventually develop some tarnish over time - it's just what silver does. The good news? It's easy to restore.

Daily Wear:
Silver is durable and meant to be worn. In fact, wearing it regularly helps prevent tarnish.

Cleaning:
When you notice any tarnish, simply polish with a soft silver polishing cloth to restore the shine. For textured areas, a soft brush with warm soapy water works well. Dry thoroughly.

OXIDIZED STERLING SILVER
Your piece features a dramatic black oxidized finish that's been sealed to preserve the rich, dark patina. This finish is durable but needs gentler handling than bright silver.

Cleaning:
Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use silver polish - it will remove the black finish. For deeper cleaning, use only warm water with mild soap and a very soft cloth. Pat dry immediately.

Diamonds: Carefully clean with rubbing alcohol

BOTH, BRIGHT AND OXIDIZED SILVER

Remove Before Sleep
Taking your jewelry on and off becomes a sweet daily ritual - a moment to honor both the piece and yourself.

Water & Moisture:
Remove before swimming (chlorine accelerates tarnish), bathing, applying make-up or lotion.

What to Skip:
Take off before applying lotions, perfumes, hairspray, or household cleaning products. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

Storage:
Keep in a soft pouch provided with your jewelry or a lined jewelry box.

Water & Moisture:
Fine for occasional hand-washing - just gently pat dry. Remove before swimming, bathing, or prolonged water exposure to preserve the sealed finish.
What to Skip:
Avoid silver polishing cloths, harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and ultrasonic cleaners - these can damage the oxidized surface. Remove before lotions, perfumes, or household cleaning.
Storage:
Store in a soft pouch away from other jewelry to prevent scratches.

That's it. Wear your silver, enjoy it, and it'll stay beautiful.

Camille with long hair and butterfly cocoon chandelier earrings standing outdoors

Artist's Statement

The Imaginal Cell Butterfly Collection

When a caterpillar experiences metamorphosis, it must first come to terms with its mortality. Amorphous cells, known as Imaginal Cells, multiply within the chrysalis, impervious to the caterpillar’s immune system. When the Imaginal Cells finally reach critical mass, the defeated caterpillar accepts its mortal fate, and metamorphosis begins. At this point, the newly awakened cells band together, transform, and become the mysterious creature that we know as “butterfly.”

The Imaginal Cell Collection honors the transformative, creative process of not knowing. Sometimes we must let go of the traditional constructs we “understand” to discover something new and beautiful within ourselves. This body of work deconstructs the geometric forms of the iconic monarch wing, transforming them into unexpected patterns and celebrating nature’s symmetry.

We are the sum of our own imaginations. Letting go is the seed to metamorphosis.