One of my favorite online destinations for unique, unusual, and unexpected gifts is Novica. Not only their items are unique, but they’re beautifully well made and handcrafted by artisans all over the world. Novica has a massive online catalog yet they make the shopping experience even more enjoyable with Gift Finder. This section is narrowed down by gender, recipient, price range, and types of gifts. They also go above and beyond by offering gift wrapping on most items and including a card that gives you insight about the artisan. Sometimes, the artisan will add a personal touch to the gift by sending a handwritten note to the recipient.
Unique Gifts at Novica
I recently moved and I have been in midst of decorating my new home. Some of the rooms perfectly convey everything I love about the bohemian mindset: an appreciation for color, art, creativity, contrasts, adventure, travel, above all, the unconventional freedom that it entails. Colors like green exude a natural charm. It’s also one of the most invigorating yet serene colors. That’s why I couldn’t help but purchase the Handcrafted “Fantastic Frida” Frida Kahlo Colorful Ceramic Decorative Plate ($47.99).
Designed by Mexican artisan Maria Isabel Cruz, this beautiful plate is made using the centuries-old dry rope technique, in which a wax mixture is applied to the outlines of the image or motif prior to glazing. The wax mixture creates a barrier that keeps the different fill colors in the design separate during firing, before burning off to reveal the blackened ceramic beneath. The plate can be hung on a wall for display via the nylon cord on the back.
Maria perfectly captures the Talavera technique in her high-fired pieces, transmitting a painting into a simple piece that is full of vibrant colors. Her full collection can be seen here.
Word from the Artist: Maria Isabel Cruz
I want to characterize my work as a different way of presenting Talavera, giving it an abstract touch that is filled with color, imbuing each piece with a more profound message. My designs touch the tradition of Mexico, its mysticism, and its beautiful animals.
Dolores Hidalgo is very rich in the Talavera technique. This gave me a great advantage in learning. The materials that we work with are ceramic and enamels, and the forms for the base. The key was practicing over and over again. Discipline is the key to any dream.
I feel great gratification each time that a piece is sold. That is when I talk about the piece they like, which encourages me to create more colorful and unique designs.
As lives and livelihoods have changed this year, Novica has renewed their belief that a better world begins with simply looking after each other. Many artisans have turned their talents to making cloth masks to support themselves and their families during this global crisis. You will be amazed by their collection of face masks — masks that give back. The fabrics, colors, designs, and inspired messages will let you put your best face (mask) forward as we walk, work, and live through the next few months together.
I like the Wood statuette, ‘Three Wise Monkeys’ (set of 3) – See No Evil Hear No Evil Speak No Evil Wood Statuette Trio
They have some nice face masks. I’d get the 4 Hand Painted Plumeria on Balinese Batik 2-Layer Face Masks, “Island Plumeria”.
Love so much of the jewelry at Novica. One of my favorites is the Rainbow Bliss Sterling Multi-Gemstone Pendant Necklace, “Rainbow Bliss”
Product ID: 291069
I like the Hanging Coconut Shell Plant Pot, “Clean Environment”
I love their skin care items, especially the oil.
I love the Artisan Crafted Multi-Gemstone Stud Earrings (Set of 7), “Everyday Pairs”
I went to their site and I would love to get these for mom Gold plated blue lace agate and amethyst beaded earrings, ‘Harvest Beauty’ – Gold Plated Hook Earrings with Blue Lace Agate and Amethyst.
My favorite item is the Multicolor Wood and Leather Jewelry Box.
I like the Handmade 22k Gold Plated Sterling Silver Disc Shape Earrings
I like the Mixed Print Dark Blue Midi Dress from India, “Bohemian Charm” by Anchal Ahuja.
I love the Hope for Peace ring.
I love their sweaters.
I’m absolutely loving the Bronze Sculptures of Happy Buddha (Set of 3) from Indonesia, “Keen Buddha” the are stunning!
I like the Floral Artisan Crafted Sterling Silver Necklace, “Flower Frame”
I love the Multicolor Wood and Leather Jewelry Box from Peru, “Shimmering Hawk”
My favorite item are the Gold plated sterling silver drop earrings, ‘Urban Minimalism
I like the Peruvian Hand Carved Owl Sculpture, “Wise Owl”.
One item that I love is the Blue and Green Rayon Batik Leafy Garden Long Sleeved Robe, “Leafy Haven”.
I love their earrings. One pair that caught my eye was Balinese Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings, “Semaphore”
I like Hand Carved Wood Dragon Sculpture, “Winged Dragon”
My favorite thing on the Novica website is the tiger trance necklace. It is stunning.
I like the Sylveco Rosadia Skincare Day & Night Duo, “Day & Night Duo”.
My fave item is Original Wood Elephant Sculpture, “Powerful Elephant”
The Colorful Alpaca Blend Poncho from Peru, “Cuzco Sunset” is so nice!!
I really like the Multicolor Wood and Leather Jewelry Box from Peru, “Shimmering Hawk”.
Penguin Ishpingo Wood Sculpture Carving from Peru, “Mother Penguin”
I like the Balinese sterling silver dangle earrings.
Love to win this.