No, we’re not talking about a typical gemstone, but rather a local gem in the form of a Vanuatu manufacturer who is on the fast track to becoming a name brand worldwide in the area of natural skin care products. Volcanic Earth has managed to harness the normally destructive power of volcanic ash to produce an exotic range of natural skin care products, with over 54 % of its sales in 2007 coming through an ever-growing list of resellers around the world.

This local manufacturer has incorporated the use of real volcanic ash into its flagship all natural "Elementals" skin care range.  The ash is used in their foot scrubs and body scrubs due to the cleaning, purification and exfoliating qualities of the ash.

Apart from its anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-yeast and overall disinfectant qualities, volcanic ash is high in Sulphur, an active Mineral ingredient which not only helps the body to resist bacteria but actually destroy it.

Sulphur is also known to slow down the aging process because of its ability to protect against the toxic effects of pollution and radiation, as well as being FDA approved for the treatment of acne.

Volcanic Earth’s “Elementals” range is comprised of well over 50 different body care products.

The range is split up into the following sub-categories: Unpredictable (a Frangipani-based line of natural products for women); Eruptable (Sandalwood-based for men); CocoVan (Vanuatu virgin coconut oil, lime& vanilla suitable for everyone) and their Tropical First Aid (incorporating Vanuatu’s famed Tamanu Oil).

They also have a range of Bath, Hair, Facial and Gift products.  In their Facial Care line, their most popular product is their Honey & Pumice Exfoliant. The combination of micro-fine volcanic pumice powder and honey is extremely effective in the treatment of acne breakouts, skin blemishes and razor bumps.

When the business first started out some years ago, it produced a range of “Ash Clothing” that incorporated the use of volcanic ash. Whilst their “Authentic Ash Shirt” and other clothing items are still produced to this day, the skin care side of the business has really taken off in a big way overseas with over 60 new reseller signups worldwide since October 2007.

In addition, Volcanic Earth has its own retail outlet in The Adventure Centre located down the walkway opposite the ANZ Bank in Port Vila. Visitors to Port Vila are invited to take a little of Vanuatu home with them in the form of some “volcanic organic” skincare or an Authentic Ash Shirt or sarong.

Volcanic Earth products are devoid of any chemicals, artificial preservatives or colourings.  

No products are tested on animals and most of their products can also readily be purchased online through their website at www.volcanicearth.com