In a digital age dominated by mass production and big-box retailers, NOVICA stands as a refreshing and inspiring platform that connects consumers directly with artisans from around the world. Co-founded in partnership with National Geographic, Novica brings stories, culture, and creativity into every product it sells. This isn’t just a marketplace—it’s a movement to preserve heritage and empower artisans globally.
In this blog, we explore Novica’s mission, its vast range of handcrafted products, pricing details, and why conscious consumers in the U.S. are embracing it. We’ll also include a detailed U.S. pricing table to give you a real sense of affordability and value.
What Is Novica?
NOVICA is an online marketplace founded in 1999 to connect global artisans with customers who value authenticity, culture, and craftsmanship. Based in Los Angeles, NOVICA partners with local artisan groups and individuals from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other regions.
Core Values
- Fair Trade Practices
- Cultural Preservation
- Artisan Empowerment
- Transparency in Pricing
- Environmental Sustainability
Why Novica Is Unique
While there are many platforms for handmade goods, Novica sets itself apart in several ways:
Artisan Profiles
- Every product comes with a detailed biography of the artisan.
- Customers learn about the artisan’s background, struggles, culture, and inspiration.
- This connection adds emotional value to every purchase.
Regional Offices
- NOVICA operates regional offices around the world (e.g., Peru, India, Ghana, Indonesia).
- These offices help artisans with training, quality control, photography, and logistics.
- This local presence ensures authenticity and operational efficiency.
No Middlemen
- Artisans receive a higher percentage of profits compared to traditional retail.
- Customers pay for craftsmanship, not inflated markups.
- Pricing is transparent, and the platform often compares the retail value with the Novica price.
Categories of Products Available on Novica
Novica offers a wide range of handcrafted items. Here are the main categories:
Home Décor
- Hand-carved wooden sculptures
- Recycled glass vases
- Tapestries and wall hangings
- Hand-painted ceramic dishes
- Decorative masks and mirrors
Jewelry
- Sterling silver rings and bracelets
- Gemstone necklaces
- Filigree earrings
- Chakra jewelry
- Cultural and spiritual designs
Clothing and Accessories
- Alpaca wool ponchos
- Embroidered handbags
- Handwoven scarves
- Block-printed cotton dresses
- Leather belts and wallets
Paintings and Wall Art
- Acrylic, oil, and watercolor paintings
- Batik and canvas art
- Cultural and folk art themes
- Limited editions by renowned artists
Gifts
- Handcrafted chess sets
- Hand-carved puzzles
- Handmade journals
- Yoga-themed items
- Unique corporate gifts
Who Are the Artisans?
Novica works with thousands of artisans from more than 50 countries. Many artisans are from marginalized or underserved communities. Here’s a glimpse of the kind of artisans featured:
Latin American Artisans
- Peruvian alpaca weavers
- Guatemalan textile artists
- Mexican ceramicists
African Artisans
- Ghanaian wood carvers
- Kenyan jewelry designers
- South African bead artists
Asian Artisans
- Indian block printers
- Balinese mask sculptors
- Thai ceramicists
Each artisan receives training, digital access, and the ability to manage their profile and products directly.
U.S. Pricing Table for Novica Products
Here’s a breakdown of typical Novica product categories and their U.S. pricing range:
| Category | Product Example | Price Range (USD) | Comparable Retail Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jewelry | Sterling Silver Earrings | $25 – $70 | $60 – $150 |
| Home Décor | Hand-Carved Wooden Buddha Statue | $45 – $200 | $90 – $350 |
| Apparel | Alpaca Wool Poncho | $75 – $180 | $150 – $400 |
| Accessories | Leather Handbag | $60 – $140 | $120 – $280 |
| Gifts | Hand-Painted Ceramic Mug Set | $30 – $60 | $60 – $100 |
| Paintings | Original Acrylic Wall Art | $120 – $500 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Wellness Products | Aromatherapy Diffuser Set | $20 – $50 | $40 – $80 |
| Holiday Décor | Handmade Nativity Scene | $35 – $80 | $70 – $160 |
Reasons U.S. Shoppers Love Novica
More U.S. shoppers are gravitating toward Novica for ethical, aesthetic, and practical reasons.
Ethical Consumption
- Products are fair trade certified.
- Purchases directly impact artisan livelihoods.
- Buyers avoid mass-produced, environmentally harmful goods.
Story Behind Every Product
- Each item includes a story card or bio of the artisan.
- Shoppers feel more connected and mindful with their purchases.
High-Quality Craftsmanship
- Artisans use traditional tools and heritage techniques.
- Items are handmade, making each one unique.
- Quality surpasses many machine-made counterparts.
Excellent Customer Support
- U.S.-based customer service
- Easy returns and refund policies
- Authenticity guaranteed
Top-Selling Products You Should Know
Jewelry
- Indian Garnet Sterling Silver Rings
- Balinese Filigree Earrings
- Chakra Gemstone Bracelets
Home Decor
- Ghanaian Tribal Masks
- Thai Ceramic Incense Holders
- Mexican Talavera Tiles
Clothing
- Peruvian Alpaca Sweaters
- Indonesian Batik Kimonos
- Indian Block Print Scarves
Holiday Items
- Handcrafted Christmas Ornaments
- Nativity Sets from Peru and Guatemala
- Recycled Metal Reindeer Figurines
Customer Testimonials
Here’s what real customers say about Novica:
Positive Feedback
- “I bought a handwoven scarf from Guatemala, and it’s the most beautiful item I own. The story card made me tear up.”
- “Every item I’ve purchased has been unique, high-quality, and ethically made. This platform makes me a more responsible shopper.”
- “Shipping was fast even though it was international. I love knowing where my money is going.”
Critical Reviews
- “Some items take longer to arrive due to international shipping.”
- “You have to be patient and read the artisan’s notes for sizing or dimensions.”
- “Certain items are priced higher than similar-looking mass-market goods, but the difference in quality is clear.”
How Novica Compares to Other Artisan Marketplaces
Here’s a quick comparison of Novica vs. other platforms:
Novica vs Etsy
- Novica vets artisans and offers more cultural storytelling.
- Etsy allows anyone to sell, leading to more variability in quality.
- Novica ensures fair trade practices, which Etsy does not guarantee.
Novica vs Ten Thousand Villages
- Both are fair trade, but Novica has a broader global reach.
- Novica offers more direct artisan communication.
- Ten Thousand Villages primarily operates physical stores, while Novica is fully digital.
Novica vs Local Art Fairs
- Local fairs are great for community support, but offer limited variety.
- Novica allows global reach from the comfort of your home.
- Returns and customer service are more structured with Novica.
Artisan Empowerment Through Novica
Novica has made measurable differences in the lives of thousands of artisans.
Economic Impact
- Higher incomes for artisans and their families
- Opportunities to employ others locally
- Improved access to education and healthcare
Social Empowerment
- Empowerment of women artisans in patriarchal societies
- Preservation of dying art forms and cultural techniques
- Community development through artisan cooperatives
Sustainability Commitment
Novica also promotes environmentally friendly production:
- Use of natural, recycled, and upcycled materials
- Organic dyes and low-impact processes
- Minimal packaging and eco-conscious shipping methods
How to Shop Smartly on Novica
Here are tips for U.S. customers to maximize value:
Look for Limited Editions
- Unique collector’s pieces
- Often signed by the artist
- Adds long-term value
Use Filters and Sorting
- Filter by price, material, region, or theme
- Sort by popularity, newest, or best reviews
Read Artisan Bios
- Learn about the origin and story
- Deepens appreciation for your purchase
- Great conversation starters when giving gifts
Sign Up for Offers
- Regular promotions and seasonal sales
- Exclusive access to new collections
Conclusion: Novica Is More Than Shopping—It’s a Cultural Experience
Shopping at Novica is not just about owning beautiful handcrafted items. It’s about:
- Supporting real people with real stories
- Choosing sustainability and ethics over convenience
- Adding cultural depth to your lifestyle
- Becoming a part of a global community that values craftsmanship and connection
Whether you’re decorating your home, gifting a loved one, or simply exploring handmade fashion, Novica gives you a reason to feel good about every dollar spent. It’s an opportunity to own something truly unique—something made with love, skill, and a story worth sharing.