Zendaya is facing major criticism for the earrings she wore to promote Christopher Nolan’s ‘Odyssey’ at a photocall in London. The actress paired a white designer dress with earrings made from Iranian gold medallions dating back to the 1st millennium BC, making them roughly 3,000 years old, and ignited an immediate debate about cultural heritage and artifact preservation.
Divided reaction on social networks
The internet seems very divided over Zendaya and her stylist’s decision to incorporate the earrings into the star’s press junket for the film. Critics expressed great concern about the propriety of wearing such ancient artifacts as jewelry. “These 3,000-year-old Iranian earrings should be returned to Iran, or at least kept in a museum,” wrote one internet user. “No one has the right to use such ancient artefacts as they are extremely valuable and represent an important part of the cultural heritage of mankind,” said another.
Many online users argued that the 3,000-year-old Iranian gold medallions belong in museums, saying the historical artifacts should be protected rather than worn as jewelry. Image Credit (Instagram)
However, some observers took a different perspective on the choice. One user even suggested, “It probably took them TO START a discussion. It’s definitely a discussion to have,” indicating that some saw the decision as a deliberate statement meant to spark a conversation about cultural heritage and preservation.
Some social media users supported Zendaya’s look, suggesting that the historic jewelry encouraged a wider debate about cultural heritage, provenance and preservation. Image Credit (Instagram)
Opponents of the decision cited the less intrusive way to mount the objects and that the portable displays draw attention to the craftsmanship of the past, rather than relegating them to a museum collection.
The history and editing of Zendaya’s controversial earrings
According to CNN, the medallions were part of the Ziwiye hoard, described as a collection of medieval art dating back to the 7th century BC. The artifacts were discovered in northwestern Iran in the late 1940s. The relic was set by a London jeweler with diamonds in 18-carat yellow gold and is believed to have been part of a collection that transformed various artifacts into jewelry.
The earrings feature gold medallions from the Ziwiye hoard dating back to the 1st millennium BC, restarting conversations about cultural heritage, preservation and ownership. Image Credit (Instagram)
The jewelry brand that acquired the artifact told the outlet that the discs are kept in a “simple non-invasive” environment designed to “not alter or damage the original objects in any way.” The brand also appeared to comment on the current geopolitical tensions in the region. “At a time when Iran is frequently seen 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,” the statement continued.The London jeweler previously told him Gallery in the magazine an interview from 2025 about the philosophy behind transforming historical artifacts into wearable pieces. “You can wear something around your neck that dates back thousands of years, but it’s still contemporary and fresh,” said the craftsman.The jewelry brand also addressed the issue of preservation, stating, “Cultural heritage rightly inspires important conversations, and we welcome informed dialogue about provenance, preservation 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 Credit (Instagram)
Zendaya’s role in ‘The Odyssey’Zendaya plays Athena, daughter of Zeus and goddess of wisdom and war, in the highly anticipated adaptation of Homer’s epic. In a May interview with Elle, the Emmy winner reflected on her casting for the role. “I don’t know what it is, I just feel like I’ve been here before,” he said, describing a sense of connection with the character.‘The Odyssey’, currently in cinemas, also features Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Lupita Nyong’o and Cate Blanchett in leading roles. The film marks Nolan’s ambitious adaptation of the legendary Greek narrative.