These lovely olive wood camels come direct from Bethlehem. They are handcrafted in the same family workshop from which our olive wood nativities come. The olive wood grain shows up beautifully. These camels have a carved saddle and are nicely finished

Here's some background about olive wood.............................

Olive trees are indigenous to the Holy Land and are treasured because the oil from their fruit has been used for religious rites since biblical times. The olive wood used in these beautiful products is of the highest quality and is distinctive for its dark lines. It comes only from olive wood trees that are grown in the area between Shechem and Hebron that are not irrigated. The olive tree is a protected species in Israel and cannot be cut down. Once every two years the olive trees are pruned so that they bear fruit and it is from these prunings that these handcrafted pieces are made. The prunings are stored for almost 5 years, before they are used by the craftsmen for these exquisite pieces.

Olive wood items make perfect gifts. Not only are they imbued with spirituality, they also do not require much care since olive oil is naturally protecting them from corrosion and changes of color.