Actress Zendaya has drawn criticism for wearing 3,000-year-old earrings during her promotional tour for the film "The Odyssey." The jewelry, reportedly dating back to the first millennium B.C. and attributed to the Ziwiye hoard discovered in Iran in the 1940s, was worn by Zendaya at a photo call in London.
The earrings, described as Iranian 18-karat yellow gold medallion discs bordered by diamonds, were designed by London-based jeweler Glenn Spiro and later acquired by Barron London. The jeweler 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." Barron London also expressed hope that the earrings could serve as a reminder of Iran's "enduring artistic, cultural and historical legacy."
However, the decision to wear the artifacts has prompted backlash on social media. Some users expressed concern over the "disrespectful" use of historical items, with one commenter stating, "As an archeology student. I HATE THIS. They should be in a museum." Others questioned why a replica was not used, with one user writing, "As an Iranian, I find this whole situation deeply upsetting. This piece is a part of Iran's history and cultural heritage, and it should not be in the hands of anyone other than Iran and its people."
Conversely, some defended Zendaya, labeling the situation a "non-issue." One fan commented, "This is a non-issue that people need to get over."
This incident brings to mind other instances where celebrities have faced scrutiny for their fashion choices involving historical or iconic garments and accessories. Kim Kardashian drew attention for wearing Marilyn Monroe's 1962 dress to the 2022 Met Gala, an experience she later described as fraught with concerns about preserving the fragile garment. Similarly, Margot Robbie wore an $8 million diamond necklace belonging to Elizabeth Taylor and a replica of a 175-year-old bracelet made from the Brontë sisters' locks for premieres earlier this year.
Zendaya portrayed the goddess Athena in Christopher Nolan's adaptation of Homer's Greek epic, "The Odyssey." The film has received critical acclaim. Zendaya also plans to take a break from the spotlight after a period of intense work, stating she needs to "disappear for a little bit."