Our Tofu Skin Hoops are the first in our Water Banquet series of jewelry inspired by Chinese culinary delicacies. The ropey texture and rounded cinches of these earrings mimic tofu skin, which is made from boiling soy milk and collecting and drying the film that forms on its surface.
Credited as having started during Empress Wu Zetian’s rule during the 7th century AD, the Water Banquet—with its cold and warm dishes cooked in various broths and sauces and presented in a sequence that flows like water—is a culinary tradition tied to Luoyang, a city in Henan province suited to such fare with its dry and cold winter climate. It’s also known as one of the cradles of Chinese civilization: After becoming ruler of China in 690, Empress Wu moved the capital to Luoyang from Xi’an.
To celebrate the Lunar New Year and Year of the Metal Ox, the Tofu Skin Hoops symbolize the ceremoniousness of fresh beginnings and all of the associated hopes and intentions, as well as reunion with loved ones, particularly poignant during this time of rising anti-Asian hate. And more literally, jewelry that’s fit for an empress.
- Available in ultra-shiny recycled brass or sterling silver
- 14k gold-filled or sterling silver earring posts and backings
- Measures 1.3" long and 1" wide
- Hollowed back for extremely lightweight wear
Handcrafted in New York with love, the Tofu Skin Hoops were originally carved in wax, then cast in metal and polished by hand.
Each piece is handmade to order and will take an average 7-14 business days to arrive to you.
