Meerschaum is a German word describing this soft mineral, which literally means sea foam. The highest quality stone is mined in the plains of Eskisehir, Turkey. Meerschaum is soft and chalk-like when mined. Shaping and carving is done during this soft stage and followed by a slow drying process. Finally, the polishing technique Sinan uses is also unique. The polish consists of quality ingredients including pure beeswax to give his carvings a beautiful ivory color to this otherwise white stone.