100.0% of buyers have recommended this.
Hand-carved from natural coal
Measures 2-3/4” high x 2-1/4” wide
Suspended with a vibrant red ribbon
Supports fair trade and artisan communities
Promotes child labor eradication efforts
The Coal Star Ornament is a stunning and unique addition to your holiday decor, crafted from natural coal. This ornament is not just a beautiful decoration; it represents a significant effort to support young artisans in Colombia. Each piece is carefully hand-carved and polished, transforming an unassuming material into a shiny star that will surely catch the eye on your Christmas tree.
Handmade by talented young artisans from the Morca Coal Project in Colombia, this ornament is a product of a government initiative aimed at discouraging child labor. The project trains young men in new professions, allowing them to earn a living while honing their craft. By purchasing this ornament, you are supporting fair trade practices and helping to provide these artisans with a sustainable livelihood.
Measuring 2-3/4 inches high and 2-1/4 inches wide, the Coal Star Ornament is the perfect size to hang on your Christmas tree or display in your home. It is suspended with a vibrant red ribbon, adding a pop of color to its sleek black design. This ornament is not only a festive decoration but also a conversation starter, as it carries a story of resilience and hope.
The Morca Coal Project is located in the mountainous region of Sogamoso, Colombia, where the community relies heavily on coal mining for their livelihoods. Unfortunately, the mining industry poses significant risks, including accidents and health hazards. In response to these dangers, the Colombian government established the Morca-Boyaca workshop in 1995 to provide young boys with an alternative to working in the mines.
Through this initiative, boys are encouraged to attend school and learn the art of coal carving, transforming a hazardous situation into a creative opportunity. The project aims to eradicate child labor in the mines and provide these young individuals with a healthier and more sustainable source of income.
By purchasing the Coal Star Ornament, you are not only acquiring a beautiful piece of art but also contributing to the well-being of the Morca community. The Colombian government has been actively working to create networks with marketing agencies and importers of handicrafts to promote coal jewelry and expand market opportunities for these artisans.
The Morca-Boyaca project collaborates with organizations such as One World Projects in the U.S. and the National Pedagogical University in Bogota to ensure that these artisans have access to stable markets for their products. This partnership helps to elevate the artisans' work and provides them with the recognition they deserve.
Choosing the Coal Star Ornament means choosing to support ethical craftsmanship and fair trade. It is a meaningful gift for friends and family, symbolizing hope and the spirit of giving during the holiday season. Each ornament is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the artisans who create them, making it a perfect addition to your holiday traditions.
In summary, the Coal Star Ornament is more than just a decoration; it is a piece of art that tells a story of resilience, creativity, and community support. Add this unique ornament to your collection and celebrate the spirit of the season while making a positive impact on the lives of young artisans in Colombia.