Another metamorphic rock that is composed primarily of talc, with varying amounts of other minerals. Soapstone is usually very soft and can be gray, bluish, green, or brown. It is often variegated or having various markings of different colors.
This soft slab is quarried in just a few countries: India, Brazil, Iran, US, and Italy. In the US, Aberline Soapstone can be quarried from the Old Dominion Soapstone Quarry in Schuyler, VA in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The unique rustic look and industrial style of this variety have made it a designer choice since 1883. Its unusual thermal properties and closely-packed structure make it perfect for large spaces and heated flooring. This stone is also heat and acid resistant and can be used oiled and un-oiled, depending upon your application.
The stone is a steatite stone that includes chlorite, magnesite and dolomite and sometimes talc. Talc supplies the soft touch that soapstone is known for. But don’t let the softness fool you, this surface is extremely tough and virtually non porous. Being non porous sets it apart from its natural stone counterparts in that it doesn’t need annual or bi-annual resealing. A little buff and oil can make a Soapstone countertop look good as new in no time.
The outer layers of the famous statue in Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer, is made from this resistance stone.
Contact us if you would like to include soapstone in your next kitchen or home renovation.