Shamani Semi-Precious Sodalite Earrings - Crescent Hoop

Artisan Organization: Matr Boomie

Country: India

Ornate jewelry is a proud cultural tradition in India and every piece in our collection hints at a deeper story. In the sprawling urban center of Old Delhi, our partner group of nearly 80 artisans delicately bends, etches, beads and polishes jewelry from stones, glass, upcycled metal and wires, seeds, and other materials. However, these artisans are not only limited to jewelry. Many of them go on to create other products such as frames, ornaments, and hair accessories made out of bone. They inherit their craftsmanship from their ancestors, who were master jewelers. 

In 2009 we were contacted by Sana, the young daughter of an artisan in this mostly Muslim group, who was dissatisfied with the exploitative treatment of her family and community by local tradesmen. Since our fair trade partnership began, their earnings have doubled, they have upgraded to better workspace, and children are staying in school longer. In fact, Sana became the first girl in her village to attend college!