What is soapstone? 

Soapstone contains mineral talc which makes it soft to touch, it feels like a dry bar of soap...and hence the name ‘soapstone’ was born. It has nothing to do with being able to wash with it...it would not do a very good job of this, so please do not try!

Where can soapstone be found? 

Most of the worlds soapstone originates from Kisii which is a town in the western highlands of Kenya, about 200 miles from the country's capital, Nairobi.   

It is also known as ‘Kisii stone’ after the Kisii tribe who originally utilised it for domestic activities. Through this heritage Kisii has become well known as home to the best soapstone artisans and carvers.  

And this is precisely where we source our collection of soapstone gifts and decorations! 

How is soapstone crafted? 

Soapstone is a rather weighty stone yet very brittle at the same. This makes it an ideal rock to craft with. It is mined by hand and carried to workshops in nearby areas.  

Fun fact: when soapstone is mined, a large pit around 50 feet in diameter is dug and the fill is set aside. Once the soapstone has been excavated, the pit is filled back in which allows the soapstone to gradually reform so it can be mined again. 

But before starting work the stone must be immersed in water to make it even softer and therefore easier to work with. Using a hammer and chisel the main shape is carved out. 

Some soapstone is left in its natural colour but others has colour added to it. We stock a variety of both styles but of course we have a soft spot for all things colourful! 

A smaller knife, known as a kisu, is then used for the engraved design or illustration. 

What products are crafted? 

One of our most popular ornaments are our soapstone mushrooms. They have been so popular that we expanded the range to include mushroom earrings, mini mushrooms, and mushroom trinket trays! 

We also worked alongside the artisans to create our own Siesta exclusive designs like these face planters and goddess incense cone burner. 

In our Showroom we also have an incredible collection of large soapstone sculptures – they are quite something and rather heavy too! Each piece is unique and the colour has been left in all it’s natural glory.