The artisans of Union Progresista Artesanal (UPA) in Mexico make jewelry using silver, brass, or a metal alloy called alpaca, which is a combination of copper, nickel and zinc.
Gorara and palewa, two types of soapstone, are extracted from a nearby quarry. Stone pieces are then refined, using some electric tools and some hand tools.
The Raffia palm is a grass-like plant native to Madagascar that is used for weaving and crocheting. To give the rafia its color, it is gathered and soaked in buckets of water.
Watch the process of turning cocoons into luxurious silk fiber. The pupae are removed, and the cocoons are boiled and stirred in soapy water. This causes the cocoons to stick together and soften.
