Bone and Tagua Nut Carving

23 Nov Bone and Tagua Nut Carving

Bone and horn carving is an ancient art form deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Indonesia. Bali in particular is known for its many artisans who are masters at intricate carving, be it temple stone work, wood work or most detailed of all, bone. We work closely with a skilled craftsman to realise our ideas, while also leaving room for him to offer his own ideas to the collection. Through our work, we support the continuation of an important cultural legacy.

Besides the by-product cow bone, we also use Tagua nut. The Tagua nut is a seed that grows on a particular species of palm tree in South America, notably Ecuador, Bolivia and Peru. The kernels are picked up from the ground after the ripe fruit has detached from the tree and forest animals have taken care of the outer shell. This means no harm is done to the rainforests in which they grow. Tagua nut (or “vegetable ivory”) resembles the finest ivory but is slightly softer so it is easier to carve than elephant ivory or cow bone. Sometimes subtle yellow or brownish hues come through the cream colour of the nut upon carving.

Bone and Tagua nut jewelry is a perfect marriage of sustainable materials and legendary artisanship.