FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

NAZARETH FAIR TRADE

What is the significance of olive wood and handmade items in your collection?

Olive wood holds profound significance in our collection, representing more than just a material. It is a legacy of faith, artistry, and deep historical connection. Each piece, meticulously handcrafted from this durable and distinctively patterned wood from the Galilee region, is not just an item. It is a fragment of history, embodying resilience, beauty, and spirituality.

The durability and value of olive wood make it a sought after material. Known for its hardiness and the ability to withstand the test of time, olive wood items are not only beautiful but also incredibly long lasting. This enduring quality mirrors the spiritual endurance of the very trees that have shaded, fed, and nurtured ancient mystics of the Galilee.

These trees have been silent witnesses to the lives and teachings of figures like Jesus, John the Baptist, Jonah, Nahum, Hosea, Elijah, and Elisha, making each piece resonate with centuries of spiritual and historical significance.

This craft, practiced by Jesus himself, links each creation to a holy and revered tradition. In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, our handmade items stand out for their soulful energy and uniqueness. Crafted with care and skill by local Christian artisans, every piece resonates with individuality and tells a story of a craft that is slowly diminishing in the modern era.

By choosing our olive wood items, you are not just making a purchase. You are embracing a piece of art that carries centuries of tradition and culture. You are also actively supporting the livelihoods of these artisans, aiding in the preservation of their precious craft for future generations.

How does Nazareth Fair Trade stand out from other shops?

Nazareth Fair Trade stands out through a deep-rooted heritage, unique craftsmanship, and a strong commitment to quality and sustainability.

We are more than a business. We are a legacy carried forward by a small Christian family from Nazareth, with ethnic roots in the Holy Land that go back generations. This personal connection gives us a deep understanding of how to source the finest materials and work with the most skilled artisans in the region.

Our products are not just items. They are stories carved from the heart and soul of Galilee. Each design is inspired by the landscapes, traditions, and faith that define the Holy Land. We use ancient handcrafting techniques, passed down through generations and kept alive through dedication and care.

Our artisans still use traditional tools, not machines. These time honored methods are nearly lost in the modern world, but we proudly preserve them. This gives every item we create a unique character and authenticity that mass production can never replicate.

But it is not just about the craftsmanship. We believe in the full experience. That is why every item is beautifully packaged in a custom gift box, making it perfect for gifting or treasuring yourself. The box adds a special touch, elevating the unboxing experience and honoring the meaning of what is inside.

At Nazareth Fair Trade, you are not just shopping. You are connecting with a sacred heritage. You are supporting local Christian artisans. And you are receiving something truly meaningful — a piece of history, a symbol of faith, and a living expression of beauty and belief.

Is the harvesting of old olive trees sustainable and environmentally friendly?

Yes. Our olive wood comes from annual pruning and from trees that are no longer fruitful. Olive trees actually benefit from regular pruning, which keeps them healthy and productive. No living or productive trees are ever cut down for our products.

This sustainable practice respects both the environment and local traditions, allowing the groves to thrive while supporting the livelihoods of Christian families in the Holy Land.

What are the origins of the products? Are they Palestinian or Israeli?

Our products are handcrafted in the Holy Land by Christian families living in and around Nazareth, Bethlehem, and the Galilee region. These communities have deep roots in the land, with traditions that go back centuries — long before modern political borders.

We work directly with artisans from various towns and villages, some of which are in Palestinian territories and others within Israel. Our focus is not on politics but on people, heritage, and the preservation of sacred craftsmanship.

By supporting our work, you are helping sustain Christian families in the region, many of whom face economic challenges and are working hard to keep their traditions alive. Every purchase supports dignity, peace, and shared humanity — values that transcend all borders.

How do your products support local Christian communities?

Every item in our collection is handcrafted by Christian artisans in the Holy Land, many of whom live in Nazareth, Bethlehem, and surrounding villages. When you purchase from us, you are directly supporting their families, workshops, and traditions.

In a region where Christian communities are shrinking and often face economic hardship, your support helps provide stable income, preserve sacred crafts, and keep faith-based heritage alive.

This is more than commerce. It is a lifeline.

It empowers artisans to pass their skills to the next generation, remain rooted in their homeland, and continue creating beautiful expressions of faith.

By choosing Nazareth Fair Trade, you are not just buying a product — you are becoming part of a mission to uplift, preserve, and connect with the living Christian presence in the land where Jesus once walked.

What is the process of creating your handmade jewelry and souvenirs?

Creating our handmade jewelry and souvenirs at Nazareth Fair Trade is a process steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, a journey that starts from the ancient olive groves and ends in the cherished unboxing experience by our customers.

1. Harvesting the Olive Wood:
The journey begins in the historic olive groves of Galilee. We selectively harvest wood from olive trees that have ceased bearing fruit. This practice is not only sustainable but also respectful to the natural life cycle of these ancient trees. The wood, rich in history and character, is carefully chosen for its quality and distinct patterns.

2. Seasoning the Wood:
Once harvested, the olive wood is then seasoned. This is a critical step where the wood is allowed to air dry, which can take up to two years. This natural process ensures the wood's durability and prepares it for crafting, preserving its inherent beauty and strength.


3. Shaping and Crafting:
In the shaping and crafting stage, our artisans engage in a process that is both an art form and a historical practice, drawing on techniques that have their roots in the ancient era of the Holy Land. These methods, steeped in history, have been preserved and passed down through generations of craftsmen.


Our artisans utilize a variety of traditional tools that have been used for centuries in woodworking. These include chisels of various sizes for carving intricate details, gouges for creating curves and hollows, and mallets for precise striking and shaping. Additionally, hand saws are used for cutting the seasoned wood into workable pieces, and rasps and files help in refining the shapes and smoothing out the surfaces.


The crafting process is deeply tactile and requires a significant amount of manual skill. Artisans carefully select each tool based on the specific requirements of the piece they are working on. They employ techniques like whittling, which involves carving small bits of wood with a knife to create intricate designs, and turning, where the wood is rotated on a lathe while being shaped, allowing for symmetrical and rounded forms to be created.


Each piece of wood is treated with reverence and understanding, acknowledging its unique grain patterns and characteristics. This careful attention ensures that the natural beauty of the olive wood is highlighted in every finished product. The artisans’ hands become an extension of their tools, shaping and molding the wood with a precision and care that machines cannot replicate.

4. Finishing Touches:
Once the shaping and crafting stage is complete, our artisans proceed to the finishing touches, which are crucial in bringing out the innate beauty of the olive wood and ensuring the longevity of each piece.


After careful shaping, each item is finely sanded to achieve a smooth, flawless finish. This sanding process is meticulous, gradually using finer grains of sandpaper to refine the surface. This not only smoothens the wood but also enhances the visibility of its natural grain and rich hues, showcasing the unique patterns that make olive wood so distinctive and sought after.


Following the sanding, a critical step in the finishing process is the application of food-grade olive oil. This oil, naturally derived, is gently rubbed into the wood. This step serves multiple purposes: it deepens the color of the wood, bringing out its warm, earthy tones; it acts as a natural sealant, protecting the wood from moisture and extending its durability; and it gives each piece a subtle, natural sheen that enhances its aesthetic appeal.


For some items in our collection, additional elements are incorporated to further enhance their beauty and significance. This might include inlaying the wood with other materials, or engrave them with symbolic designs, adding layers of meaning and beauty. These added details not only contribute to the visual appeal of the pieces but also imbue them with deeper layers of meaning and cultural significance.


The finishing touches are what transform our products from mere pieces of wood into exquisite artifacts. They are a testament to the skill and attention to detail of our artisans, ensuring that each piece is not just a testament to tradition and craftsmanship but also a functional and beautiful item that can be cherished for years to come.


5. Quality Assurance:
Each item undergoes a thorough quality check to ensure it meets our high standards of craftsmanship and design. This step guarantees that every piece that leaves our workshop is a testament to the skill and dedication of our artisans.


6. Packaging and Presentation:
Once approved, each item is carefully packaged in a specially designed gift box. This packaging not only protects the item but also enhances the overall experience, making it ready for gifting or a delightful unboxing experience for the customer.


7. Delivery to Customers:
Finally, the packaged products are shipped to customers around the world. From the moment a customer opens their package, they are not just unveiling a product but revealing a piece of history, a slice of the Holy Land, and the culmination of a journey that bridges ancient craftsmanship with modern appreciation.


This entire process, from the harvesting of the olive wood to the unboxing by the customer, is a testament to our dedication to preserving ancient craftsmanship while delivering quality and meaningful products to our global community.

Can I customize a piece of jewelry or a souvenir?

Yes, we offer customization for bulk orders of 100 pieces or more. Whether you're creating gifts for a church group, a special event, a pilgrimage, or a religious organization, our artisans can personalize items through engraving, design adjustments, or material choices.

We work closely with you to ensure the final product reflects your vision and purpose, all while maintaining the handcrafted quality and spirit of the Holy Land.

To get started, simply fill out our business inquiry form with your request and details. We’ll respond within 24 hours with options, pricing, and timelines.

Your custom order helps support Christian artisans and brings meaningful faith-based gifts to life.

What is your shipping policy and how long does delivery take?

We offer free worldwide shipping on all orders, with no minimum purchase and no hidden fees.

Delivery within Europe typically takes 4 to 14 working days, while orders to the USA and Canada usually arrive within 7 to 21 working days. Shipping times to other regions may vary depending on your location and local postal services.

We aim to process and ship all orders within 1 to 3 business days. Once your order has been dispatched, you’ll receive a tracking number so you can follow your package every step of the way.

Please note that customs clearance or public holidays may occasionally cause delays, especially for international shipments. If you're ordering for a special occasion, we recommend placing your order in advance.

If you have any questions or need assistance with your order, our team is always here to help.

Why are your products shipped from Sweden?

While our roots are firmly planted in Nazareth, and our products are lovingly handcrafted by Christian artisans in the Holy Land, we ship from Sweden for one simple reason — to ensure that we can continue serving you reliably and with care, even in difficult times.

Nazareth Fair Trade was founded by a Christian family born and raised in the Holy Land, with generations of heritage tied to the sacred soil of Galilee. In recent years, political instability, shipping restrictions, and regional hardships have made it increasingly difficult to ship directly from our home.

To overcome these challenges and continue supporting our artisan partners, we established a shipping center in Sweden, where our family now lives and operates the online side of the business. This allows us to safely store, package, and deliver our handcrafted products to customers around the world — without compromising on quality, values, or our connection to the Holy Land.

Every product is still made in Nazareth and surrounding towns by Christian families. We carefully transport these items to Sweden, where they are prepared for shipment with the same love and reverence they were made with. This process ensures faster delivery, fewer customs issues, and a more stable foundation for global growth — all while remaining deeply committed to the mission of uplifting our community back home.

By ordering from us, you are not only receiving a piece of the Holy Land — you are standing with those who continue to create beauty and meaning in the face of adversity. Thank you for being part of this journey.

PAYMENTS, REFUNDS & ORDERS

What payment methods do you accept at Nazareth Fair Trade?

We accept a wide range of secure and trusted payment methods to make your shopping experience smooth and flexible.

You can pay using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, PayPal, and Klarna. With Klarna, you can also choose to pay later or split your purchase into installments, depending on availability in your country.

All transactions are safely encrypted, and we never store your payment details. Your privacy and security are our top priorities.

If you need help with your payment or prefer a different option, our support team is always ready to assist you.

Where is my refund?

As soon as we receive your returned item, our team quickly begins the refund process. Once approved, the refund is issued back to your original payment method.

Please note that it may take 3 to 7 business days for the refund to appear in your account, depending on your bank or payment provider.

We’ll send you a confirmation email as soon as your refund has been processed.

If it's been more than 7 business days and you haven’t received your refund, feel free to reach out — our team is here to help and will resolve it promptly.

Where is my order confirmation?

Right after you place your order, we automatically send a confirmation email to the address you provided at checkout. This email includes your order number, summary, and shipping details.

If you haven’t received it within a few minutes, please check your spam or promotions folder, as it may have landed there by mistake.

Still can’t find it? No problem — just contact our support team with your name or order details, and we’ll be happy to resend it.

We're here to make sure you feel confident every step of the way.

Why has my order been canceled?

Orders are rarely canceled, but when it happens, it’s usually due to one of the following reasons: payment issues, incomplete shipping information, or the item becoming unavailable or out of stock at the time of processing.

If your order was canceled, you should have received an email notification explaining the reason. If you haven’t received one or are unsure why it was canceled, please reach out to our support team.

We’re here to help resolve the issue quickly and make sure you get the product you love. In many cases, we can assist you in replacing or reordering the item with updated information.

How do I cancel my order?

If you need to cancel your order, please contact us as soon as possible. We process orders quickly, so cancellations are only possible before the item has been packed or shipped.

To request a cancellation, email us at info@nazfat.com with your order number and the reason for cancellation. If your order has already been shipped, we’ll guide you through the return process once it arrives.

Our team is here to help and will do everything we can to assist you.

Can I alter my order?

Yes, we’re happy to help with changes — but please reach out as soon as possible. Once your order has been packed or shipped, we may not be able to make adjustments.

If you’d like to change the item, quantity, shipping address, or any other detail, simply email us at info@nazfat.com with your order number and the changes you'd like to make.

We’ll do our best to update your order before it leaves our hands.

What countries do you ship to?

We proudly ship worldwide to almost every country across the globe. Whether you're in Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, or the Middle East, we are committed to delivering our handcrafted treasures from the Holy Land right to your doorstep.

Shipping is always free, and all orders are sent from our center in Sweden with tracking included.

If you're unsure whether we ship to your country or have specific delivery questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@nazfat.com — we’re happy to help.

Can I track my order?

Yes, absolutely. As soon as your order is shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation email with your tracking number and a link to follow your package every step of the way.

If you haven’t received your tracking details within a few days of ordering, please check your spam or promotions folder, or contact us at info@nazfat.com and we’ll be happy to assist you.

We’re here to make sure your order arrives safely and on time.

RETURNS & EXCHANGES

Can I return or exchange an item?

Yes, you can. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 14-day return and exchange window.

To be eligible, the item must be unused, in its original condition, and returned with any included packaging. If you'd like to return or exchange an item, just email us at info@nazfat.com with your order number and the reason for the return. We'll guide you through the process step by step.

Please note that return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer, unless the item arrived damaged or incorrect. In those cases, we will cover the cost and make it right.

We’re here to make sure you feel confident and cared for every step of the way.

My order has arrived, but it’s not as I expected. What should I do?

We’re truly sorry to hear that your order didn’t meet your expectations. Please email us at info@nazfat.com within 14 days of receiving your item, and let us know what went wrong. Be sure to include your order number and, if possible, a photo of the item so we can better understand the issue.

Whether the item arrived damaged, is incorrect, or simply didn’t match what you had in mind, we’re here to help. Our team will work quickly to resolve the issue through a return, exchange, or refund — whatever is most appropriate.

Your satisfaction means everything to us, and we’re committed to making it right.

What is your return policy?

We want you to feel completely confident in your purchase. If you're not satisfied, you may return your item within 14 days of delivery.

To qualify for a return, the item must be unused, in its original condition, and include all original packaging. To start the return process, simply email us at info@nazfat.com with your order number and the reason for the return. We'll guide you through the next steps.

Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer unless the item arrived damaged or incorrect — in which case, we will cover the cost and make it right.

We’re here to ensure that your experience with Nazareth Fair Trade is smooth, honest, and filled with care.

Didn't Find Your Answer?

We hope our FAQs have helped guide you, but we understand that sometimes you need a more personal touch.

At Nazareth Fair Trade, you're not just a customer — you're part of a global family that shares a love for faith, craftsmanship, and culture. Whether you have a question about our olive wood creations, the handcrafting process, or need help with anything else, we’re here for you.

For quick answers, feel free to use our chat feature. You can also reach us anytime through our contact form or by emailing info@nazfat.com.

We’re always happy to assist, and we truly value your curiosity, trust, and connection to our mission.

Thank you for walking this journey with us.