The Artistry of Beldi Glass: A Journey Through Revival 

Imagine yourself strolling through the bustling streets of Marrakech, where the scent of spices hangs in the air and the sun bathes everything in a golden light. Here, amidst the lively energy of the city, lies a hidden treasure – Beldi glass. 

In every corner of Morocco, from bustling cities to serene villages, Beldi glass stands tall as a beacon of tradition and elegance. Its signature shape, adorned with a raised ridge, whispers tales of centuries-old craftsmanship and heritage. Step into any café, and you’ll find locals and travelers alike savoring the timeless ritual of nus nus tea, each sip a nod to the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco.

Image credit: eyeswoon

However the story of Beldi glass is more than just a relic of the past; it’s a tale of resilience and revival. Since the 1940s, this 100% Moroccan craft has been a symbol of tradition and heritage, cherished by locals and visitors alike. However due to mass production and economical challeges, in 2013 the closure of the last glass factory in Morocco cast a shadow over its future. Enter Le Verre Beldi Company, a beacon of hope committed to preserving Moroccan tradition. With unwavering determination, they refused to let Beldi glass become a mere memory. Drawing upon the expertise of former teams, they established a factory model that honored tradition while embracing innovation. 

Preserving Tradition, One Sip at a Time

For over a decade, the Beldi Company has championed the cause of Moroccan craftsmanship, creating spaces and initiatives that celebrate the country’s rich heritage. Through partnerships like the Beldi Country Club, they have paved the way for traditional knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Today, Oak & Olive is proud to join hands with Beldi to bring the magic of Moroccan tradition into your home. Each piece of Beldi glass is a testament to the importance of slow-made craftsmanship, where every imperfection tells a story of human hands and heartfelt dedication.

Crafted by Hand, Crafted with Care: The Art of Glass Blowing

The production process of Beldi glass is a captivating journey through the artistry of glass blowing, where skilled artisans harness the raw power of fire and molten glass to create objects that are both functional and beautiful. Imagine the flickering flames of a furnace, where two tons of waste flat glass and bottle glass are meticulously transformed into liquid gold, heated to a scorching 1600 degrees Celsius.

With nimble fingers and unwavering focus, artisans begin the mesmerizing dance of glass blowing. They carefully gather molten glass on the end of a blowpipe, shaping it with delicate movements into graceful forms. 

Using an oxygen and gas flame, artisans skillfully manipulate the glass, cutting and sculpting with precision to achieve the desired shape and texture. It’s a delicate balance of technique and intuition, as they coax the molten material into existence, infusing every creation with a touch of magic.

But the artistry doesn’t end there. Fragments of glass are carefully melted and annealed in furnaces, undergoing a meticulous three-hour process to ensure durability and strength. This final step is crucial, as it allows the glass to cool slowly and evenly, preventing any stress that could compromise its integrity.

Finally, after being washed and polished to perfection, these handcrafted masterpieces are ready to adorn tables around the world. Each piece is a testament to the time-honored tradition of glass blowing, where skill and passion come together to create objects of enduring beauty and craftsmanship.

Elevate Your Table Setting with Artisanal Elegance

Transform your dining experience with the timeless beauty of Beldi glassware and carafes. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party or enjoying a quiet moment alone, let each sip be a celebration of tradition and craftsmanship. Pair your Beldi glasses and carafes with intricately patterned textiles and handmade ceramics to create a table setting that exudes elegance and charm.

With Oak & Olive’s collection of Beldi glass and carafes, you can bring a touch of Moroccan charm into your home, one sip at a time. Join us on a journey through tradition and craftsmanship, where every piece tells a story of resilience and revival.