Vintage Small Yao Earrings for Extended Ear Holes

These lovely vintage gauge earrings from the first half of the 20th century were worn by the Yao people. The earrings are worn by threading the loop into the ear hole until the arrow shape is reached. The arrow shape is a symbolic sword protecting the wearer from evil spirits. The last picture shows a woman in Vietnam wearing such an earring (credit).

The earrings are made of mixed metals and are in good vintage condition. A similar pair of earrings is shown in the Quai Branly Museum's collection. The Yao people live in China, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. 

• The length from the top of the arrow to the bottom of the earrings is 2.5 cm (1").
• The diameter is 1.8 cm (3/4").
• Weight is 5g. 
• Gauge about 2 mm or 12g.