Frequently asked.

Soapstone is a soft, dense metamorphic rock made primarily of talc. It has been carved by hand for over 3,000 years across cultures from the Nile to the Andes. We source ours from the Tabaka Hills of southwest Kenya, where the Kisii people have been carving the stone for generations.

We chose soapstone because it carves like wax and finishes like silk, while remaining heavy, durable, and quietly beautiful. It develops a soft patina with use — pieces become more themselves over time.

Yes. Every piece is hand-quarried, hand-carved, hand-sanded, and hand-finished by Kisii artisans in Tabaka, Kenya. We don't use machines, lathes, or molds. Tools are axes, knives, and chisels — the same tools used by previous generations.

This means slight variations between pieces are inherent and intentional. No two are identical.

The form will. The grain, weight, and subtle finish will vary slightly. Soapstone shows its natural minerals — yours might be a touch creamier, or carry a darker fleck the photograph didn't catch. We see this as the point.

Heavier than they look. Soapstone is dense — a 10-inch vase typically weighs 4–6 lbs. Trays can run 3–7 lbs depending on form. The weight is part of the experience.

The cream and grey-finished pieces are sealed and water-safe for fresh-cut stems. We recommend using a small glass insert for hot water or extended use, to preserve the seal and prevent any mineral discoloration over years of use. The matte black finish is also sealed and behaves the same way.

Soapstone candle vessels (The Khartoum Candle) are heat-rated for the wax we use.

Wipe with a dry or barely-damp soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, and dishwashers. For a deeper read, see our Care Guide.

Most orders ship within 2–3 business days from our Springfield, Massachusetts facility. During launch and holiday windows, expect up to 5 business days. We'll notify you if anything takes longer.

Yes — across the United States, Canada, and most international destinations. International transit times run 7–21 business days. Customs duties and taxes are the recipient's responsibility. Full details in our Shipping policy.

Yes — within the U.S. International orders pay calculated shipping at checkout.

You have 30 days from delivery to return a piece for a full refund, or exchange it. The piece must be unused, undamaged, and in its original packaging. U.S. return shipping is free. See Returns for the full process.

Photograph it within 48 hours of delivery and email us. We replace damaged pieces at no cost, or issue a full refund — your call.

You'll receive a tracking number by email when your order ships. You can also track your order here with your email + order number.

Nile Savannah was founded by Monica Kuku — born in Sudan, raised in Egypt, now based in Springfield, Massachusetts. The brand is a personal project rooted in heritage, craftsmanship, and the belief that a home should feel grounded.

Read more on our Our Story page.

We partner directly with workshops in Tabaka, Kisii County. Artisans are paid above-market rates for their craft, and we visit our partners regularly. We do not work with middlemen, exporters, or marketplace consolidators.

If you're interested in learning more about our supply chain, please reach out — we'd rather show you than write about it.

We do not currently hold a fair-trade certification because our supply chain is too small and direct to require third-party intermediation. We pay above-market rates, source directly from named workshops, and visit annually. As we grow, we'll consider formal certification — but our priority is the relationship, not the badge.

Yes — we share field notes and photography from Tabaka in our Journal. The first formal field note ("Notes from Tabaka") is in production. Subscribe to receive it first.

Yes. Interior designers, architects, stylists, and stagers can apply for our Trade Program — net pricing, priority support, and access to new pieces before public release.

Wholesale and hospitality orders welcome. Email Hello@nilesavannah.com with your project, quantities, and timeline. We'll quote within 2 business days.

For trade, hospitality, and large orders — yes. Custom sizes, finishes, and engravings are possible with longer lead times (typically 6–10 weeks). For smaller orders, we ship the launch line as designed.