Black & White - Handwoven Natural Cuff Bracelet

Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of the Wounaan indigenous community from Colombia's Chocó region with this handwoven cuff bracelet. Meticulously crafted by skilled Wounaan women artisans, this bracelet showcases the rich cultural heritage and sustainable practices of their community.

ARTISAN CRAFTSMANSHIP: The Wounaan people, residing along the San Juan River in Colombia, have a deep-rooted tradition of creating intricate woven items using fibers from the Werregue palm. This art form has been passed down through generations, with women leading the weaving process. The Werregue palm, native to the region's mangrove swamps, provides durable and flexible fibers ideal for crafting. 

SUSTAINABLE MADE: The process begins with Wounaan men sustainably harvesting the Werregue palm leaves, ensuring the preservation of their environment. The fibers are carefully extracted and sun-dried over several days. To achieve the bracelet's vibrant colors, natural dyes are employed:​

Green: Derived from puchicama leaves
Orange: Extracted from achiote seeds.​
Black: Achieved by burying fibers in mud after dyeing with puchicama, resulting in a rich black hue. 

INTRICATE WEAVING TECHNIQUE:  Once dyed, the fibers are woven using a coiling technique. Artisans use their feet to stretch and hold the fibers taut, allowing for precise and tight weaving. This method ensures each piece's durability and showcases the artisan's skill. The inclusion of delicate gold threads adds a touch of elegance, seamlessly blending traditional materials with contemporary design.​

UNIQUE AND ONE OF A KIND: Each bracelet is a testament to hours of dedication and artistry. The natural variations in the Werregue fibers and the hand-dyeing process ensure that no two pieces are identical, offering you a truly unique accessory that embodies the spirit and traditions of the Wounaan community.​
  
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE: Purchasing this bracelet supports the Wounaan artisans and helps preserve their ancestral craft. It's not just a piece of jewelry but a story of cultural heritage, sustainable practices, and the resilience of a community dedicated to their art.​

By purchasing this bracelet, you support hardworking women and their families who are facing displacement and hardship due to violence from armed groups in Colombia. Your purchase helps sustain their craft and preserve their cultural heritage.