Among the treasures Buzz and Maddie brought back from their travels last month are these striking, elegant necklaces made in the southern Morocco town of Tiznit, renowned for jewelry and metal craft. We love the way the jeweler incorporated Berber design elements in updated, sophisticated styles.

George Filgate did a terrific job with the photography, as always, and we’re starting to add these pieces to our Moroccan Buzz Shop. There are many variations, so check back for additions!

As we look forward to 2013, we look back with gratitude on the abundant support from our wonderful customers. We’re pleased that virtually every bit of customer feedback we’ve received has been positive. This note from George Nicholas of Costa Mesa, California sums it up:

“Just a quick note to let you know how happy I am with the purchase of the leather travel bag. It is everything you promised and more. Thank you for the great service, excellent quality goods and your dedication to the people of Morocco. It’s nice to know that someone else will benefit from my purchase.”

Thank you, George, and all of our customers for your loyal support and great reviews! We’ll strive to continue to provide exceptional service and quality, responsibly-sourced merchandise.

We’re pleased to include Stove Team International in our donations this year. If you’re considering year-end giving, this is a wonderful opportunity!

Based in our hometown, Eugene, Oregon, this non-profit group helps to establish cooking stove factories in third world countries using local labor and resources. By replacing traditional open fire cooking with fuel-efficient “Ecocina Stoves”, injuries and deaths from accidents, health problems from breathing the toxic fumes, and carbon emissions are greatly reduced. Visit www.stoveteam.org for more information.

While Stove Team doesn’t currently operate in Morocco, its work is consistent with our goals, helping to create sustainable employment in third world countries, while improving people’s health and safety and the environment.

Other groups Moroccan Buzz has supported this year include the High Atlas Foundation, which creates and supports development projects in rural Morocco and our local schools and charitable organizations.