The Ancient Egyptians were the first known civilization to revere alabaster for its translucency and beauty. The mineral is not a hard stone and lends itself perfectly to intricate carving. Our Mini Alabaster Bowl is made by a family who has been working in alabaster for centuries. As alabaster is a natural product, please be aware that there will always be variations in veining and color. This is to be expected and makes every alabaster product uniquely your own. Not for food Product is not Watertight Hand wash Alabaster Care Instructions: For long term conservation of the product, it should be cleaned with a dry cloth using neutral products normally used for wooden furnitures (SC Johnson "Pronto Classic" is