About Us
Origin
Founded by Susan Woods in 1975, Kazuri began as a small workshop in Nairobi, built on a simple idea: create something beautiful by hand—and do it in a way that supports the people behind the work.
What started small has grown into a long-standing workshop of skilled artisans—but the essence of Kazuri has never changed.
Every bead is still shaped and painted by hand.
There are no molds. No automation. No shortcuts.
Each piece begins as raw clay from the slopes of Mount Kenya. It’s hand-rolled, kiln-fired, and painted layer by layer.
Kazuri is built around long-term employment.
Artisans earn fair wages, have access to healthcare, and participate in profit-sharing—allowing them to build financial independence over time.
Craft that carries a deeper significance
Behind every piece is a team of artisans—primarily women—who have spent years refining their craft.
Many have been part of the workshop for years, allowing knowledge, skill, and consistency to deepen over time.
To craft Kazuri beads, we use sustainably sourced clay from the foothills of Mount Kenya.