Actress Zendaya has drawn criticism for wearing 3,000-year-old earrings during a press tour for her role in "The Odyssey." The artifacts, described as 18-karat gold medallion discs dating to the first millennium B.C. and attributed to the Ziwiyi hoard, were worn by the 29-year-old actress at a photo call in London.

The Ziwiyi hoard, a collection of ancient artifacts, was reportedly looted by shepherds in the 1940s. Critics argue that using such significant historical relics as accessories for a Hollywood film promotion is inappropriate and shows a lack of cultural sensitivity.

"There is not enough cultural knowledge and cultural sensibility among those who dress [celebrities], those who accessorise them," said Sussan Babaie, an Iranian art historian and professor at the Courtauld Institute, according to The Guardian. Babaie described the idea of using the earrings as "shocking" and a form of "hijacking, flattening and transforming [ancient Iran's] cultural contributions to humanity."

Social media platforms also saw a strong reaction. Users on X expressed frustration over perceived disrespect to other countries, with one writing, "Exhausted with the continuous 'disrespect' to other Countries." An archaeology student commented on X, "I HATE THIS. They should be in a museum." Similar sentiments were shared on Reddit and Instagram, with many users expressing the opinion that ancient artifacts belong in museums for preservation and public appreciation.

Barron London, the entity that acquired the earrings, stated that the "ancient gold discs are held within a simple, noninvasive claw setting that does not alter or damage the original objects in any way." The company told CNN, "Cultural heritage rightly inspires important conversations, and we welcome informed dialogue about provenance, preservation and the appreciation of exceptional craftsmanship."

The jeweller Glenn Spiro designed the earrings, which are bordered by diamonds. A representative for Barron London added, "At a time when Iran is frequently viewed through the lens of contemporary events, we hope these earrings can serve as a reminder of the country's enduring artistic, cultural and historical legacy."

Zendaya's stylist for the event was Law Roach. The actress paired the earrings with a white Jacquemus dress for the London photo call.