Looking for original handmade nativities full of heart? These timeless stone crèches are hand carved one by one in Ayacucho, Peru from natural white or grey alabaster, locally called “piedra de Huamanga.” 

Great for displaying it on a mantel, nightstand, prayer corner or desk as quiet reminders of what Christmas is truly about.  It also makes a thoughtful small gift or stocking stuffer for anyone who loves handcrafted, faith-inspired art.

As they’re made from real stone and carved by creative artists, each nativity will bring its own personality.  They come in assorted shapes with either white or grey stone with subtle color variations. 

• Hand carved from Peruvian “piedra de Huamanga” alabaster
• White and grey stone tones; assorted shapes 
• Carved by traditional alabaster artists in Ayacucho, Peru
• Each one comes in a gift box for easy gifting
• Sold in 12s. Price is for one.

Peruvian Craft Traditions

What makes Peruvian craft traditions special is the extraordinary continuity between ancient culture and contemporary artistry. For thousands of years, Peruvian makers have refined techniques in carving, knitting, pottery, weaving, and jewelry making, passing their knowledge from one generation to the next.

Inspired by a rich cultural heritage that includes ancient civilizations such as Caral, Machu Picchu, the treasures of Sipán, Paracas, or the Nazca Lines, today’s artisans continue to reinterpret traditional materials, symbols, and techniques in new and creative ways. The result is craft that feels deeply rooted in tradition while alive and evolving.

Lucuma Designs is proud to work with talented Peruvian artists and help preserve craft traditions, skills, and knowledge that have endured for generations.

Benjamin Pizarro, alabaster artist

Born in Ayacucho, Peru, Benjamin Pizarro began carving alabaster stone, known locally as piedra de Huamanga, at a young age. Drawn to its soft translucence and delicate beauty, he is known for creating finely carved figures, including nature-inspired sculptures and detailed miniature nativities.

Today, Benjamin works alongside his wife, Betina, and their adult children, continuing a true family craft that honors Ayacucho’s centuries-old tradition of devotional stone carving. Each piece is carefully shaped by hand, transforming luminous stone into a meaningful keepsake of faith, heritage, and Peruvian artistry.

Good for the Planet. Good for Everyone.

With love for Mother Earth and all beings who depend on her, Lucuma Designs commits at least 1% of annual sales to environmental organizations working to restore ecosystems, support Indigenous communities, and protect natural habitats.

Each year, we select nonprofit partners through the 1% for the Planet network whose work supports causes close to our hearts. Our giving often helps advance food sovereignty, sustainable agriculture, reforestation, solar energy, Indigenous rights, water access, habitat protection, and other environmental initiatives.

Our giving is certified annually through 1% for the Planet, so every Lucuma purchase helps support organizations working toward a healthier, more beautiful world.

Learn more about how you can join at OnePercentForThePlanet.org.