ABOUT US
& OUR STORY
ÅARJEL is the Southern Sámi word for "south".
By using this specific word we describe so much; who we are, which geographical area we belong to and which language we speak. This is obviously not understandable to someone who has never heard the South Sámi language before, but we hope that this word can spark a curiosity to explore the Sámi culture and everything it has to offer!
ÅARJEL is a Southern Sámi online store that offers traditional, handmade Sámi products as well as timeless and modern clothes and accessories marked with Southern Sámi words and expressions.
We want to offer insight into our culture, and we offer products that suit everyone. Maybe you are Sámi, and want an extra identity marker or maybe you saw an increadibly nice bag and thought; "I just have to have it!". By shopping for products with us, you get both a product and history, and a little more knowledge about the Sámi people.
DID YOU KNOW?
Historically, there were twelve different Sámi languages.
Twelve so different that you did not understand each other. They were not separated by national borders as we see today, but by mountains, rivers and lakes (Samiske Veivisere, 2021). Today, unfortunately, there are only a few surviving languages, and all of these is placed on UNESCO´s list of seriously endangered languages. In Norway the official three Sámi languages are Northern Sámi, Lule Sámi and Southern Sámi - where both Lule Sámi and Southern Sámi are a minority within the minority.
THIS IS WHY we started Åarjel.
To strengthen and showcase our beautiful language, and our beautiful culture. This is our mission. Together with our vision; to make Sámi design something that everyone wants to wear, we increase the knowledge about the Sámi people and culture.
We hope you enjoy our products, our language and your new knowledge!
Heelsege / Best regards,
ÅARJEL
Our characteristics
What you will love about us
01
SUSTAINABLE
The Sámi culture is all about sustainability. So is ÅARJEL. We believe in transparency, and can tell you exactly everything in the journey while producing a product; from where the animals live to the finished product.
03
UNIQUE
ÅARJEL is unique in so many ways. Our handmade products is one of a kind, made with love for our traditions and with techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.
02
GENUINE
We are passionate about sharing our knowledge with you. We take such pride in our craftsmanship, and honor our ancestors who have taught us all we know; from handicrafts to how to live in harmony with nature
04
INSPIRING
ÅARJEL will inspire you to take the right decisions regarding the environment. The Sámi people has always been a people living in harmony with nature, we only borrow what we need and then clear our tracks for the next generation.