Soapstone   |   Beaded Items   |   Handbags

Our soapstone artisans mine and carve their stones in an area called Kisii, in the southwestern part of Kenya. Headed by strong, determined women, the carving groups we use employ over 1000 artisans. One leader, Pauline Ntombura, was the first girl in her family of 20 brothers and sisters to learn to read and she not only provides consistent, fair wages to her employees, but also ensures their living conditions are decent and helps them meet their needs for health care and their children's education.

The soapstone is removed from the ground using simple tools. The earth around the stones is returned and after several years the mineral deposits begin to form new stones. Although soapstone is carved using only primitive tools, the pieces are silky smooth and can have intricate designs.

Each item is hand sanded and then polished to a lustrous finish. The natural stone is beautiful on its own and can be striking when painted in vibrant colors.