« Providing the artisans of Cabo Frio with a dignified and long-term employment » constitutes one of the principal aims of L’atelier des Dames, in accordance with the charter of the La Plateforme pour le Commerce Equitable (PFCE). L’atelier des Dames designs its jewellery in France and produces it in Brazil. The fishermen’s wives of Cabo Frio collect the fish-scales and use a unique process to turn them into jewellery.
Therefore L’atelier des Dames promises to :
Pay an advance with every order to cover the costs of the raw materialsRespect an unlimited lead-timeGive priority to a long-term commercial relationshipEnsure absolute transparency during the exchange of information regarding prices, margins, and distribution processesGuarantee freedom of expression to, and give priority to all contact from, the workshopRespect and never discriminate against anyoneAvoid all forms of child-labourValue the abilities of local suppliers, packaging manufacturers and artisans who may wish to contribute artisticallyGive precedence to the reasonable use of natural resources and energy sourcesUse the shortest and most simple route limiting as much as possible the need for intermediariesEncourage the autonomy of the suppliers by aiding them to maintain their points of sale in the art galleries of BrazilCreate and maintain a fish scale-preparation school to pass on and perpetuate this unique skill.