Soapstone

Soapstone is defined as a metamorphic rock or stone composed of one or more minerals.  Hydrous Magnesium Silicate (Talc) is the most abundant mineral component.  Soapstone commonly has a soapy to slippery soft feel when the surface is unaltered by long use or treated with chemicals or oils.  Soapstone is quarried in many places around the world in far arctic areas of Canada, Scandinavia, Sibera and Russia as well as in Brazil and the North Eastern United States.  Soapstone on the Mohls Scale has a hardness rating between H=1 and H=4.5 depending on the mineral components.

Soapstone has grown in popularity and its most common uses are kitchen counters, bathroom vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, and outdoor kitchens.  Soapstone also offers a very natural look and requires different maintenance than other stones.