S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y
The paper used in our packaging is sustainably created by a family in Xieng Khouang, Laos out of tree bark. Once it's removed from the outside of a mulberry tree, the bark is wetted, crushed into a paste-like texture, and dried in the sun. The paste is transformed into beautifully natural paper. Each order ARTICLE22 sends out uses this traditional paper to package your new piece. In the video below, our local family artisans transform the bark into paste which will dry before it's ready for use.
POUCHES
Each of our handmade jewelry pieces is placed inside a light, fuctional travel pouch. Not only does this material keep our jewelry safe wherever you take it, but the pouch is symbolic of ARTICLE22’s mission: trade, not aid.
Our pouches are sourced from Houey Hong, a unique weaving training center for women of Laos. The center teaches traditional processes of weaving, dyeing, and tailoring. Through their work, the center helps women learn to sell their products and economically support themselves, their families, and the community. The center not only keeps Laotian traditions of weaving and craftsmanship alive, but it has also trained over 650 women across Laos to become small-business owners.
WHAT IS PEACEBOMB METAL?
Weapons transformed into symbols of love, ARTICLE22 jewelry is made out of upcycled aluminum shrapnel from Vietnam War-era bombs and debris, melted down and handcrafted into jewelry by traditional artisans in Laos. A virtuous circle, each piece contributes to the clearance of some of the 80 million unexploded ordnance in Laos today, alongside our nonprofit partner Mines Advisory Group (MAG).
SILVER
Meet JP, our silversmith in Vientiane, Laos. He individually handmakes each of our sterling silver products, from our earring posts to our chains. We prioritize obtaining and creating our products from the communities that are most affected by the need for UXO clearance; that way, we can directly economically support those impacted by exploded and unexploded ordinances.