Artisan Profile: Transforming a Legacy of War into Symbols of Peace

Photo of Iron Work Artisan

After curating such beautiful handmade items created by talented artisans, we realized that the stories behind these pieces are too compelling not to share. Each piece has a history, a culture, and a story that deserves to be told. So, we are excited to begin showcasing some of these incredible stories, starting with one that is deeply meaningful and powerful.

Laos holds the grim distinction of being the most heavily bombed country per capita in the world. Between 1963 and 1973, during the Second Indochinese War, Laos became an unwitting battleground, with the US Air Force dropping a planeload of cluster bombs every eight minutes for nine years. The devastating impact of these bombings continues to affect the country, even decades later, with an estimated 30% of the bombs failing to detonate and still posing a threat to rural communities today.

In the aftermath of the war, villagers in Laos, particularly in the remote area of Ban Naphia, began gathering aluminum from unexploded bombs and scrap metal to create simple tools, initially spoons. This practice was passed down by a family who relocated from Houaphan Province to Ban Naphia and taught local families how to safely handle and repurpose these dangerous remnants. What started with five families crafting spoons from bomb debris has since grown into a vibrant community initiative, with approximately 13 families now producing over 150,000 pieces of recycled aluminum each year.

Today, the artisans of Ban Naphia have expanded their craft beyond spoons to include a variety of beautiful jewelry, such as bracelets, earrings, and pendants. These products, carefully handcrafted from the remnants of bombs and other war debris, are not only unique but also serve as poignant symbols of peace and resilience.

At our shop, we proudly collaborate with these artisans in the Xieng Khuang Province, sourcing aluminum from airplane parts, bomb fragments, and other metal scrap collected from across Laos. These artisans, trained by Helvetas, a Swiss NGO, use specialized skills to safely smelt, clean, and repurpose the metal. This training ensures the materials are handled properly, minimizing risks and creating beautiful products that reflect both the history and hope of the Lao people.

While the legacy of unexploded ordnance (UXO) still haunts many rural areas of Laos, these artisans’ ingenuity and determination have turned remnants of destruction into emblems of peace. Their work not only supports their families but also helps raise awareness of the ongoing threat posed by UXO. Each piece of jewelry and every handcrafted object is a testament to the community’s resilience and a reminder of the importance of continuing demining efforts to make Laos safe again.

The generous spirit of Lao artisans shines through in our collection of recycled bomb products. The transformation of war remnants into beautiful, functional art speaks to the resilience of the Lao people and their commitment to rebuilding their lives and their country in the face of adversity. With each piece, we honor their work and their journey toward peace.

Here are some of the pieces:

Bombshell Lotus Cuff

Buy Now

Carved Bombshell Bangle

Buy Now

Bombshell Peace Earrings

Buy Now

You can see the rest of the pieces and other jewelry at: The Quarry Shop Jewelry

While Cambodia has experienced years of peace and development since the end of the Khmer Rouge regime and the atrocities of the past, the country still faces significant challenges. Today, 30% of the population lives below the poverty line, surviving on less than $1.25 per day.

By purchasing these bombshell products, you are not only acquiring beautiful, handcrafted pieces but also helping to create fair trade opportunities for disadvantaged Cambodians, particularly in a community struggling with high unemployment. The artisans are compensated fairly for their skilled work, providing a steady income that supports their families and helps put food on the table. This reliable income is especially vital for women, allowing them to raise healthy children and secure a better future for their families.

The designs reflect Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, drawing inspiration from traditional Cambodian arts and craftsmanship. By supporting these artisans, you are contributing to the preservation and revitalization of many age-old skills, ensuring that Cambodia’s artistic traditions continue to thrive.