Brooch, Green Branch

 The Artisana Collection represents work from multiple artists in the famous Taxco region of Mexico, best known for it’s silver jewelry.  The artisans continue to produce traditional jewelry much like their ancestors. The groups who produce jewelry in this collection have formed cooperatives to pool together their talent and resources – the result has been a positive impact for the individual artisans and a bigger impact on the community. 

One example of a cooperative is The Union Progresista Artesanal (UPA)  which was formed in 1986 and is located in Taxco el Viejo.  The cooperative is made up of 26 jewelry makers who work collaboratively to sell a beautiful collection of jewelry; the group uses a wide range of beautiful materials that range from abalone, mother of pearl, sterling silver, Taxco silver, and much more. UPA has achieved stable income for many members of its community and bettered the community through initiatives that include support of local schools and programming geared towards the youth.  Artisans often work out of their homes and are paid fair wages.  The Fair Trade jewelry is not only beautiful, but each purchase helps to transform lives.