Yes — every nation is in there. But “every nation” is a more complex phrase than it sounds.

How many nations exist in the world depends on who is counting. Some say 193, many say 197, others count 201, 204, 221 or even 249.

The base is the UN framework: 193 member states plus 2 observer states — 195 in total. That is the foundation.

But OUAW goes further. Sand from Taiwan, Kosovo and Western Sahara is in the collection, along with sand from places that are treated as nations in some contexts but not others. OUAW’s position is simple: if people live there and call it home, it belongs in the collection.

Yes — North Korea is in there. The Vatican too. Every single one.

So when we say sand from every nation, we mean it seriously.

This is not about taking political positions. It is about acknowledging people and places with care and respect.

All sand was collected legally. In many parts of the world, collecting sand is restricted or prohibited; protected beaches, nature reserves, geological sites. Every sample was gathered with the knowledge and cooperation of local authorities, geological institutions and environmental organizations. Permits were obtained. Protected areas were respected. Building the collection took years.

Each piece also contains sand from a small number of additional locations, extraordinary places chosen for what they represent rather than where they sit on a map. We call this the secret ingredient. Some of these locations are documented in Sand Origins or occasionally shared on social media. Others remain part of what makes each piece unique. You can read more about this in the separate FAQ.

All 195+ collection sites are documented in Sand Origins,  find it in the top menu.