What is Soapstone?

Soapstone is made up of mineral deposits created by nature and quarried from the earth. The main mineral components in soapstone include talc, chlorite, dolomite and magnetite, giving a warm, soft feeling to the touch.

Soapstone has a unique soft color with light flowing veins. When cut, it oxidizes from light gray to dark charcoal in color. A protective coat of mineral oil makes its color even more dramatic.

For centuries, soapstone has been quarried and used throughout the world. Soapstone was traditionally used in colonial New England for fireplace hearths, sinks, countertops, and wood stoves, but is now spreading throughout the United States.

Current Uses

In addition to soapstone’s traditional uses, it is currently used for stair treads, balusters, sills, island tops and mixing bowls. Because of its unparalleled heat retention characteristics, it is the perfect choice for cookware, cook tops, oven floors, masonry heaters and fireplace liners. After soapstone is initially heated from burning wood, pellets or coal, it slowly radiates the heat evenly for hours – even after the fire is out! Soapstone can also be used for carving and sculpture.

Durability

Practically indestructible, Green Mountain Soapstone is an excellent alternative natural stone to use in place of granite or marble. Soapstone won’t burn or stain and requires very little maintenance. It is inert. Acids and alkalis will not etch soapstone as they will other stones. For decades, soapstone has been used extensively in laboratories and science classrooms for sinks, flooring, and lab bench work surfaces. Its durable and dense composition make it idea for these applications.