UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box is a quarterly subscription service offered by NOVICA that showcases a curated selection of authentic artisan treasures from a different region worldwide. Each box has a $200+ value and you can fully customize it or let NOVICA surprise you. You'll discover one-of-a-kind products and insider tips as you explore a new region each time led by the local Artisan Guide.
Subscribers will gain access to NOVICA's UNDISCOVERED Add-On Market and will enjoy significant discounts on every item they purchase. This virtual international marketplace is filled with hidden gems and offers an incredible way to explore and shop various arts and cultures of the world.
This review is of the Premium UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box by NOVICA. This box features 5 handmade creations per season, including one valued at over $50. It costs $59.99 each quarter and shipping starts at $3.99 per box.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes).
Opening The Box
Welcome back to the UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box, where beautiful, intentional handmade goods arrive straight from their country of origin. Within the outer box was a beautifully wrapped gift box. Wrapped in thick paper, with a wide strip of multicolor woven fabric, covered with a ribbon and branded metal plate. The fabric strip is made to be used again. The inner box was snuggly packed topped by a beautiful pamphlet featuring our “Artisan Guide” from Guatemala.
What's Inside The Box
This spring box highlights Guatemala. The fold-out pamphlet includes an interview with one of the makers, Rodrigo Ramos. This subscription box offers the option to fully customize your selections and as a reviewer I recieved a curated box that did not contain any items by Rodrigo. However, I have looked through his beautifully carved and painted wood animals and have my eye on a few of his birds.
The box came with a handwritten postcard from the Rodrigo that thanks us for our support. Each specific item was also packaged with a mini note card, featuring a quote from the artist and a small blurb about the item
Cotton Scarf, “Eco Fantasy” by Yama Aj Chixot Artisan Group — Retail Value: $37.99
This scarf was wrapped simply but neatly in twine. At first I thought it was a dish towel becaue it was so soft. However, once I unfolded it I realized that it was a long, thin, fringed cotton scarf. The bright deep green color included subtle orange and yellow stripes. I like that the box sent an item that was made in such a tradional way - woven on a backstrap loom with techniques developed by the Maya more than a millenuia ago.
This is definitely a fashion scarf, as the cotton is too thin for warmth, and the cut is too narrow to cover any exposed skin beyond the neck. This might be good to add a pop of color to a casual black dress.
Recycled Teak Wood Bookmark, “ Happy Heartbeats” by Chaverri Brothers — Retail Value: $19.99
This bookmark has a beautiful double heart design, with a flexible functional base. I love the fact that this item is upcycled - The included note states that it is made of wood scraps. I’m a book lover, so a pretty bookmark always makes me happy. In reality though, I always end up preferring a printed strip of cardstock over anything else. This one is a bit thick for practical use, but beautiful for display on a bookshelf.
Beaded Keychain and Bag Charm, “Tranquil Ocean” by Alvaro Ratzan — Retail Value: $19.99
This keaychain/bag charm has a simple petite spiral design in navy blue, white, and copper tone beads with a deep brown leather tassel. This went immediately onto my classic (simple) black leather handbag to add a little pizzazz. It is a great versatile item, as it works perfectly as either a keychain or bag charm. It’s neutral, without being boring.
Crystal beaded strand necklace, “Multicolor Soul” by Mirian Zet — Retail Value: $29.99
I'm actually surprised how much I love this five stand long multi-color beaded necklace. The color combination is great, it would go with anything. There are four simple strands of tiny glass beads, with one strand of larger crystal beads for interest. The attention to detail is great. The strands are connected in an inch long strip to keep alignment between strands.
As you may have noticed from some prior posts, my style tends towards classic. This is a fun piece. I’m not sure it’s everyone’s taste, but I could wear it with just about anything to work as an elementary school teacher.
Upcycled cosmetic bag, “Peachy Keen” by Claudia Hernandez — Retail Value: $25.99
This bag is a very clever design, made with woven recycled material, with a zip and fabric interior lining. Though made as a cosmetics bag, I could see it being used as a fashion clutch, or accessory pouch. Since I personally don’t care for the color, I'm going to pass it on to a friend who I know will love it.
Value
The 5 items in this box add up to a retail value of $133.95. For a $59.99 box, that value is impressive! I love to support independent artists and appricate the effort that is put into these handmade peices.
The Verdict
No box is quite like UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box! Overall this box was a fun surprise. It would make a nice gift. I tend to prefer functional pieces over art that gets displayed, and all of these pieces checked that box. The notes that are included with each item really express the care that is put into making them.
To Wrap Up
Can you still get this box if you sign up today? Yes! As of this review's publication, the Spring 2025 box is still available and you can customize your choices.
I would love to hear your thoughts on the UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box in the comments below!
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