Joaquin Tinta – Equador Sterling Silver & Black Onyx Earrings

Vintage Joaquin Tinta Sterling Silver & Black Onyx Earrings – Ecuador

A striking pair of vintage sterling silver earrings by renowned Ecuadorian designer Joaquin Tinta, beautifully combining sculptural silverwork with the rich, polished appearance of black onyx.

Each earring is crafted in sterling silver and centred with a single polished black onyx stone, creating an elegant contrast between the lustrous dark stone and the silver setting. The distinctive design showcases the artisan character associated with Ecuadorian silver jewellery, while the timeless combination of silver and onyx makes these Joaquin Tinta earrings wonderfully versatile.

Both earrings are fitted with secure French clip backs, providing a practical and comfortable fastening for wear.

Condition

The earrings are presented in good overall condition, displaying only light signs of previous use consistent with careful wear. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and condition report. Extra photos or videos are available on request – just contact us.

Marks & Details

• Designer / maker: Tinta
• Country: Ecuador
• Material: sterling silver
• Stone: black onyx
• Fastening: French clip backs

Measurements

• Length: approx. 3.8cm
• Width: approx. 2cm
• Total weight: 10.5g

Joaquin Tinta and Ecuadorian Silver

The Andes have one of the oldest silver-working traditions in the world, stretching back long before the arrival of Europeans, and Ecuador’s silversmiths are still admired for their skill today. Joaquin Tinta is one of the best-known names in 20th-century Ecuadorian jewellery, and his work is sought after by collectors for its bold, sculptural shapes and the way it pairs sterling silver with natural stones.

Signed pieces such as these Joaquin Tinta earrings are far less common in the UK than European or American silver jewellery, which makes them a special find for anyone who collects South American or mid-century designer jewellery.

About Black Onyx

Onyx is a banded form of chalcedony, a type of quartz, and it has been carved and polished for jewellery and seals since ancient times. Black onyx is prized for its deep, glossy colour, which creates a bold contrast against bright silver – a combination that has remained popular from the Art Deco era to the present day. It is also a durable stone, well suited to everyday jewellery. You can read more about the stone in Wikipedia’s guide to onyx.

How to Wear Them

With their French clip backs, these earrings are ideal for anyone without pierced ears. At just under 4cm long, they make a confident statement without being too heavy, and the classic black and silver palette works equally well with evening wear, a crisp white shirt or a simple black dress.

A beautifully distinctive pair of artisan sterling silver earrings, ideal for collectors of Ecuadorian jewellery, lovers of black onyx and admirers of South American craftsmanship – and a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves unusual vintage jewellery.

Explore More Jewellery

Browse more pieces like this in our silver jewellery collection, or take a look at our antique & vintage jewellery and full range of jewellery.

Why Buy from Simply Collectable

Simply Collectable has been buying and selling antiques, jewellery, hallmarked silver, watches and collectables since 2015, with more than 3,300 sales completed. Every item is personally photographed and described by us, with any marks, wear or damage pointed out clearly so you know exactly what you are buying. If you have any questions about these earrings or their condition, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.

Delivery & Returns

These Joaquin Tinta earrings come with free UK delivery and are dispatched within 1–2 working days, sent by Royal Mail Tracked. Like everything we sell, they can be returned within 30 days. See our delivery & shipping and refunds & returns pages for full details.