Response from: stef (Check me out!)

karen, how much do these cost in the philipines? i've been eyeing one for sometime now but yikes! the price! there are some locally in mexican markets but i'm they look a little iffy in quality.

Response from: dileepkv (Check me out!)

I immediately took notice of the article when i saw the photograph.
It reminded me of a similar equipment in our part of the world (Kerala, India). Its known as "Ammikkallu" in the native toungue and is made out of high quality granite.It does not have legs, instead is seated on a rather high platform or seating just outside the kitchen.
In a place like Kerala, where a lot of spices are an integral part of the cuisine, Ammikalu is an extremely common household equipment. No amount of modern technology has or can replace the exquisite flavour that this stone adds to your food.
Well its not a very pricey equipment. You can purchase one for around $60.
The more used the equipment is, the more better it is. Infact the stone pieces become so smooth due to continuos use that it starts resembling a polished tile. You will then have to get it chistled to recreate its rough texture so that its grinding function is restored.
And believe me. you don't have to do that frequently. Just once in 5 years or so if you use the equipment to its extreme.

Response from: Karen (Check me out!)

Stef, I don't think they sell them anymore. Do let me ask my informants though. Hi dileepkv! Ah, makes sense! Mexico and India have many culinary similarities. Have you read Rachel Laudan's article on that? I'll try to feature it one of these days. With your very descriptive comment, you're making my mouth water, hehehe! Thanks for leaving a note! Hope to hear more from you. :)