Eco-conscious Christmas gifts

Viva Terra Root Bowls

Price: $149 (set of three)

Artisans hand-carve the discarded root balls of Chinese fir trees into magnificent bowls whose sides undulate like petrified flower petals. Equally at home as centerpieces, fruit bowls or natural sculptures, each one is as unique as its tree of origin. The bowls are untreated, so cracks and variations will occur. As dryness may encourage further cracking, you need to keep the bowl out of direct sunlight or heat. Regular oiling with food-grade oil will help keep it moist and beautiful. Not recommended for cooked food or liquid. Before use, wipe clean with a damp sponge.