Zendaya’s recent jewelry choice at The Odyssey event in London has sparked a massive reaction online.
The 29-year-old actress wore earrings made from ancient gold discs that are believed to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old.
The historic pieces were set in a modern design with gold and diamonds by London jeweler Glenn Spiro.
While many people loved Zendaya’s look, others questioned whether royal vintage items should be turned into luxury jewelry or not.
Archeology creator Dr. Z also expressed concern about the origin of the gold pieces.
“We know nothing more about their provenance, that is, their journey from their homeland, which is probably Iran,” he said, adding: “They were acquired by his son through undisclosed means.”
Dr. Z also criticized the idea of using real objects instead of copies.
“These artifacts were probably looted from Iran and adorn the ears of an American actress from a country that just bombed Iran,” he argued.
She, however, said the use of genuine historical pieces can turn cultural history into “a stolen commodity for the elite.”
The Dr. went on to describe the practice as “class signaling” and “fetishizing the past.”
The earrings are now part of Barron London’s private collection.
The controversy also diverted attention from Zendaya’s fashion and started a broader discussion about who should own vintage items.
