Description
ASTALI: Water Buffalo Tooth Earrings – Recycled Brass Bullet Casings
Designed and handmade by Shannon De Jong in her Los Angeles studio, these striking earrings exemplify ASTALI’s philosophy of transformation and sustainability. Each pair combines Water Buffalo teeth—naturally shed and ethically sourced—with recycled brass bullet casings, suspended from delicate brass chains and earhooks. Measuring approximately 3.5 to 3.75 inches, they embody a powerful dialogue between strength and grace, raw material and refined design.
The Water Buffalo holds deep spiritual and cultural significance across Asia. In both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, it represents patience, endurance, and grounded strength. Its connection to the earth and water also associates it with nourishment, perseverance, and the cycles of life and death. Working with buffalo teeth symbolically honours resilience and transformation, while the use of reclaimed bullet casings reimagines an instrument of harm into one of beauty.
Each tooth is ivory in tone but varies slightly in shape and size, giving every pair its own distinct personality. The casings—typically 9mm or .357 calibre—are reclaimed from shooting ranges and repurposed by hand, carrying small dents that speak to their past life. These marks are preserved intentionally, reflecting ASTALI’s belief that imperfection tells a story of survival and renewal.
Crafted from recycled brass and finished with care, the earrings swing freely, catching light and motion with every movement.
As with all of Shannon De Jong’s work, the design celebrates the meeting point of natural history and human artistry. Each piece carries an antique soul, connecting the wearer to themes of reclamation, endurance, and mindful adornment.
Details:
- Ethically sourced Water Buffalo teeth (no animals harvested)
- Recycled brass bullet casings (9mm or .357 calibre)
- Brass chains and earhooks
- Approx. 3.5″–3.75″ long
- Handmade in Los Angeles
Now available at Wax Spiritual, where slow fashion meets symbolic craftsmanship.
See our full range of Wax Spiritual Jewellery here.
