What is Soapstone?

Soapstone is a natural quarried stone and is a metamorphic rock called steatite.

This is the material we use for our countertops, sinks, masonry heaters, flooring, and many other architectural applications. Steatite was also used to “coat” the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Steatite is composed of several minerals, but the most abundant is talc. Steatite, because of its additives, is harder than talc, and hence suitable for durable surface applications.

Martha Stewart on Her Love of Soapstone

Soapstone – A Timeless Classic

Stone colors are available in dark gray to blueish or greenish gray with light or dramatic veining. Over a period of time as soapstone ages it achieves a beautiful patina. When treated with mineral oil the stone will darken. Soapstone is an ideal kitchen countertop choice because it never has to been sealed and has high heat resistant properties.

Soapstone is Impenetrable and Will Not Stain

Soapstone, although soft, is a very dense (non-porous) stone. Most people are surprised to learn it is more dense than marble, slate, limestone and even granite. Since soapstone is impenetrable and it will not stain. No liquid will permeate its surface. This is why through the years soapstone is widely used in chemistry lab countertops and acid rooms.

Other Soapstone Products

Most commonly found in Brazil, soapstone is used as cook tops, grills, pots, and baking stones.

Steatite Soapstone has been used for carving for hundreds of years. It makes a great carving medium, it is a soft and yet very dense, easily carve able stone and polishes to a smooth finish.

Be sure to visit our online store to see our entire collection of soapstones products.