N°25 Statement Earrings

Fiery Elegance: Earrings Inspired by the Venomous Fireworm

As a marine biologist, I’m always drawn to the boldest, most striking creatures like this fireworm —a species of polychaete worm that’s as beautiful as it is dangerous.

The first thing that struck me about this fireworm was its bold colouration and distinctive bristles. Its segmented, flame-hued body is lined with sharp, hair-like bristles that expand outward in an undulating motion as it moves. I wanted to replicate both the color and the texture in my design. The Carnelian and Agate gemstones capture the fiery oranges and deep reds, while the silver fringe mimics the bristled tufts that give this worm both its visual appeal and its defensive capabilities.

• The fireworm’s body is a brilliant, semi-translucent orange with natural banding that varies from deep burnt red to glowing amber. Carnelian’s warm, saturated color is a near-perfect match to this. Its faceted cut also mimics the segmented body structure of the worm. To highlight the deeper tones found along the worm’s dorsal side, I added deep magenta-red Agate beads. 
• The most defining feature of the fireworm is its bristle-covered body. These bristles, called chaetae, serve as a defense mechanism, delivering a venomous sting when touched. I recreated this effect through fine silver rods fanning out from a central loop, designed to move and shift just like the fireworm’s chaetae when it glides across the reef. Each tapered silver piece represents the delicate, needle-like structure of the worm’s bristles without the sting!
  

These earrings aren’t just inspired by aesthetics—they embody the biology and behavioral adaptations of the fireworm polychaete. Their segmented composition, warm hues, and intricate metalwork mirror the fireworm’s colour, texture, movement, and defensive mechanisms. This design is perfect for those who appreciate marine biology in its most vivid, tactile, and scientifically accurate form—while still making a bold fashion statement.

• Carnelian from India
• Agates from Brazil
  
• silver-plated base from USA, Seoul and Jaipur
• 8.1cm long 

Like all our pieces these one-of-a-kind earrings are handcrafted with love and care in my little studio in Lennox Head! 

The Statement Earrings will be beautifully gift-wrapped and ready as an exceptional gift for yourself or an unexpected gift for someone special.