Zendaya faced serious criticism for the earrings she wore while promoting Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” in London. The actress paired a white designer dress with earrings made from Iranian gold medallions that date back to the first millennium BC, making them approximately 3,000 years old, immediately sparking debate about cultural heritage and the protection of artifacts.
Social media reaction divided
The internet appears to be deeply divided over Zendaya and her stylist’s decision to incorporate the earrings into the star’s press look for the film. Critics have expressed strong concerns about the appropriateness of wearing ancient artifacts such as jewelry. “These 3,000-year-old Iranian earrings should be returned to Iran, or at least kept in a museum,” one netizen wrote. Another netizen said: “No one has the right to use these ancient artifacts because they are very valuable and represent an important part of human cultural heritage.”
Many online users believe the 3,000-year-old Iranian gold medal should be placed in a museum, saying historical artifacts should be protected rather than worn as jewelry. Image source (Instagram)
However, some observers take a different view on this choice. One user even suggested, “She might be wearing them to spark discussion. It’s definitely a discussion,” suggesting that some believe the decision was an intentional statement meant to spark conversations about cultural heritage and preservation.
Some social media users supported Zendaya’s look, arguing that the historic jewelry encourages broader discussions about cultural heritage, origins and preservation. Image source (Instagram)
Those opposed to the decision point out that installing these items is less invasive and that wearable displays draw attention to the craftsmanship of the past rather than relegating them to museum collections.
The History and Wearing of Zendaya’s Controversial Earrings
The medals are part of the Ziwiye treasure, described as a collection of medieval art dating back to the 7th century BC, CNN reported. These artifacts were discovered in northwestern Iran in the late 1940s. The artefact was set with diamonds in 18K gold by a London jeweler and is believed to be part of a series that transformed various artefacts into jewellery.
Featuring a gold medallion from the Ziwiye hoard, which dates back to the 1st century BC, the pair of earrings has reignited discussions about cultural heritage, conservation and ownership. Image source (Instagram)
The jewelry brand that acquired the artifact told the outlet that the discs were set in a “simple non-invasive” prong setting designed to “not alter or damage the original object in any way.” The brand also appeared to comment on ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. The statement continued: “At a time when Iran is often viewed through the lens of contemporary events, we hope these earrings will serve as a reminder of the country’s enduring artistic, cultural and historical legacy.”The London jeweler previously told gallery magazine at 2025 interview exploring the ideas behind transforming historical artifacts into wearable pieces. “You can wear something around your neck that dates back thousands of years but is still modern and cool,” Artisan said.The jewelry brand further addressed the issue of conservation, saying: “Cultural heritage rightly inspires important conversations, and we welcome informed conversations about the origins, conservation, and appreciation of exceptional craftsmanship.”
The actress stars as Athena in Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey,” currently in theaters. Image source (Instagram)
Zendaya’s role in ‘The Odyssey’Zendaya stars as Athena, daughter of Zeus and goddess of wisdom and war, in this highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s epic poem. In an interview with Elle magazine in May, the Emmy winner reflected on her casting for the role. “I didn’t know what it was, I just felt like I’d been here before,” she said, describing a sense of connection with the character.“The Odyssey,” currently in theaters, also stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong’o and Cate Blanchett in major roles. The film marks Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of the Greek legend.