One World Projects has found these wonderful Heart Soapstones. They measure approximately 2 inches across. Available in 4 designs. Great for Valentines Day, Mothers Day, or just say Thank You.
The African villagers retain all of the fill, so when they have extracted the soapstone, they refill the pit. After 5-10 years the soapstone begins to re-form, and so new soapstone becomes available

The local people who own the land actually live on it -- their houses are next to the pits and they are paid by the kilo for the soapstone that is removed.

Their property is very valuable, so the houses stay within the families, and the people are very motivated to keep the land in good condition. In general, the men do the mining, carving and painting, and the women do the sanding, polishing, washing and packing.

Pauline and the Kenyan artisans thank you for your support and your interest in their soapstone creations.

One World Projects is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, Coop America, Social Venture Network, and the Aid to Artisan Trade Network. They're committed to helping economically disadvantaged artisans and farmers worldwide in a environmentally beneficial manner.