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Collagen earring hoops | sterling silver
If you teach cell biology or biomaterials, the collagen triple helix is one of the structures you keep coming back to. The repeating Gly-X-Y motif and the three-strand superhelix are the textbook example of how a small structural rule scales into the strongest protein in the human body.
The Science of Collagen
Collagen is built from three polypeptide chains wound into a left-handed helix that then twists into a right-handed superhelix. The repeating Gly-X-Y sequence allows the close packing required for the triple helix, with glycine the only residue small enough to occupy the inside of the spiral. Hydroxyproline, generated by vitamin C-dependent hydroxylation, stabilises the helix through hydrogen bonding. Loss of vitamin C disrupts collagen synthesis and causes scurvy. There are 28 known human collagen types. Type I is the most abundant protein in the body, building bone, skin, tendon, and the dentine of teeth. Tensile strength rivals that of mild steel at the same diameter.
Worn By
The wearer is usually someone close to extracellular matrix or biomaterials:
- biochemists and structural biologists who teach the triple helix
- ECM and tissue-engineering researchers
- dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and dentists
- biomaterials scientists working on collagen scaffolds
- anyone who finds the geometry of structural proteins quietly satisfying
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FAQ
Is this a good gift for a structural biologist?
Yes. The collagen triple helix is one of the canonical structures that biochemistry and cell biology teach early. Researchers in extracellular matrix, tissue engineering, biomaterials, dermatology, and dentistry all touch collagen daily. The hoops translate the structure into something a peer immediately recognises and they work as everyday rather than statement jewellery.
Why does the Gly-X-Y motif matter?
Glycine is the smallest amino acid. The repeating Gly-X-Y pattern places a glycine at every third residue, which is the only configuration that lets three polypeptide chains pack closely enough to form a stable triple helix. Substitute glycine with anything bulkier and the helix collapses. That is why collagen mutations affecting glycine cause severe connective-tissue diseases like osteogenesis imperfecta.
What is the size, material, and earring type?
22 mm hoops in 925 sterling silver, nickel-free, with sterling silver post-and-ear-nut backs. No chain. Ships free worldwide via DHL Express in 1-5 business days, with all import duties prepaid. Come in a ready-to-gift jewelry box with the 30-day “Love It or Return It” policy.
Is there a matching collagen necklace?
Yes. The collagen necklace is available in both silver and gold vermeil, both at 35 mm pendant size. The hoops and necklace pair well as a researcher whose work runs through structural proteins, or as a way to layer the same theme across two formats.
Cellular Biology
Step into the fascinating world of cellular biology through our unique jewelry designs. These pieces serve as wearable reflections of life's microscopic wonders, capturing the aesthetics of DNA strands, cellular formations, and more. Far from simple adornments, they spark dialogue and honor the captivating complexities found within biological research. Merging scientific accuracy with artistic flair, each creation offers a tactile experience that bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and aesthetic appreciation.
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