The Io Moth (Automeris io) is a large, dramatic North American moth known for one of the most effective defense mechanisms in the insect world — when threatened, it flashes its hindwings to reveal two enormous eyespots that mimic the eyes of a large predator, startling potential attackers. The forewings are warm yellow-brown, camouflaging the resting moth against tree bark; the hindwings beneath are a vivid surprise.

Trovelore's Anglais io Moth Brooch Pin explores this dual nature — the camouflaged upper wings in warm amber and brown tones, with the dramatic eyespot element incorporated as the brooch's focal point. The eyespots — concentric rings of black, yellow, red, and white — are executed with the careful beadwork precision that Trovelore brings to all its eyespot work.

The Io Moth is a distinctly North American subject that will resonate with anyone who has encountered this species in eastern forests and gardens from Canada to Costa Rica. It is also simply one of the most visually dramatic moth designs in this collection.

Preorder now for August 2026 arrival.

Q1: What is the Io Moth?

Automeris io is a large silk moth native to eastern North America, ranging from Canada to Central America. It is famous for the enormous eyespots on its hindwings — large concentric rings of black, red, yellow, and white — which it flashes when threatened to startle predators. The forewings are warm amber-yellow, providing camouflage at rest.

Q2: How does Trovelore handle the eyespots?

The eyespots are the focal point of this brooch and Trovelore addresses them with the careful concentric-ring beadwork they bring to all eyespot designs — alternating rings of black, red, yellow, and white seed beads placed with precision to recreate the strong graphic impact of the real moth's defense markings.

Q3: Is the Io Moth found in Texas?

Yes — the Io Moth is found across most of eastern and central Texas. It is a familiar moth to anyone who has grown up or spent time in Texas's forests and gardens, making this a particularly resonant piece for a Texas audience.

Q4: When does my preorder arrive?

We expect our Trovelore shipment in August 2026 and will notify you by email when your order ships.

Q5: What is Trovelore?

Trovelore is an India-based artisan brand that creates handmade brooches using embroidery, seed beads, sequins, and hand-dyed threads. Every piece is entirely handmade.

Q6: Is this a good piece for a moth enthusiast?

It is an excellent piece for any Lepidopterist or moth enthusiast. The Io Moth is one of North America's most dramatic silk moths and a beloved subject for anyone who appreciates the extraordinary design solutions nature has evolved.