Zendaya sparked controversy after she wore earrings bearing ancient Iranian gold medals, with critics questioning whether the historical artifacts should be displayed as jewelry. Image credit (Instagram)
Zendaya is facing a lot of criticism for the earrings she wore to promote Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” at a photo shoot in London. The actress wore a white dress with earrings made from Iranian gold medallions dating back to the first millennium BC, making her about 3,000 years old, igniting an immediate debate about cultural heritage and the preservation of artifacts.
Divided reaction on social media
The internet seems sharply divided over Zendaya and her hairstylist’s decision to incorporate earrings into the star’s press look for the film. Critics have expressed serious concern about the appropriateness of wearing ancient artifacts as jewelry. One user wrote online: “These 3,000-year-old Iranian earrings should be returned to Iran, or at least preserved in a museum.” Another said: “No one has the right to use such ancient artifacts, because they are of great value and represent an important part of humanity’s cultural heritage.”
Many netizens argued that the 3,000-year-old Iranian gold medals belong in museums, saying that the historical artifacts should be protected rather than worn as jewelry.
But some observers took a different view on the selection. One user even suggested: “She probably wore it for the immediate discussion. It’s definitely a discussion that needs to be had,” suggesting that some viewed the decision as a deliberate statement meant to spark a conversation about cultural heritage and preservation.
Some social media users supported Zendaya’s look, noting that the historic jewelry encouraged a broader discussion about cultural heritage, provenance, and preservation. Image credit (Instagram)
Those who opposed the decision pointed out the less intrusive way objects are installed and that wearable displays draw attention to past craftsmanship, rather than placing them in a museum collection.
The history and composition of Zendaya’s controversial earrings
According to CNN, the medallions were part of the Zawiyah Treasure, which has been described as a collection of medieval artwork dating back to the 7th century BC. The artifacts were discovered in northwest Iran in the late 1940s. The relic was installed by a London jeweler and encrusted with diamonds in 18-carat yellow gold, and is believed to have been part of a group that turned several relics into jewellery.
The earrings feature gold medallions from the Ziwiyah Treasure dating back to the first millennium BC, reigniting conversations about cultural heritage, preservation and ownership. Image credit (Instagram)
The jewelry brand that acquired the artifact told the outlet that the discs are preserved in a “simple, non-surgical” claw position designed “not to alter or damage the original objects in any way.”
The brand also appears to be commenting on the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. The statement continued: “At a time when Iran is frequently viewed through the lens of contemporary events, we hope that these earrings will serve as a reminder of the country’s enduring artistic, cultural and historical heritage.”The London jeweler previously told Galleria magazine in a 2025 interview about the philosophy behind transforming historical artefacts into wearable pieces.
“You can wear something around your neck that is thousands of years old but still be contemporary and cool,” the craftsman said.The jewelry brand also addressed the issue of preservation, saying: “Cultural heritage inspires important conversations, and we welcome informed dialogue around provenance, conservation and appreciation for exceptional craftsmanship.”
The actress plays Athena in Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey,” which is currently in theaters.
Zendaya’s role in “The Odyssey”Zendaya plays Athena, daughter of Zeus and goddess of wisdom and war, in the long-awaited adaptation of Homer’s epic. In an interview with Elle in May, the Emmy winner spoke about being cast in the role. “I don’t know what this is, I feel like I’ve been here before,” she said, describing a feeling of connection to the character.The Odyssey, which is currently in theaters, also stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong’o, and Cate Blanchett in the lead roles. The film represents Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of the Greek mythological narrative.