MenuWhat is Soap Stone?
Soap stone is a metamorphic rock, but why is this rock called soapstone?
Well if you thought is was related to a bar of soap you would be wrong, however the name does give you a clue!
Got it? No? Okay here is the clue: the reason for the name soap stone is because it feels soapy, yes soapy and very soft. The reason is because its principle mineral is talc and talc is very silky, soapy and soft.
Although soft, you may be surprised by its uses, for example worktops and counter tops because of its heat resistance. It has been used for cooking pots and bowls and thousands of years ago it was used for fire hearth liners.
Being soft it’s a great material to work with for early sculpture and is similar to Alabaster and Serpentine with other mineral content.
Soapstone is also useful for tiles for the wall and floor, facing stone, bed warmers, electrical panels, wood stoves, pencil markers, molds for casting metal, etc.
Yes, a very useful stone being heat resistant, acid and alkali resistant and only let down by the fact it scratches easily, but then again it’s easy to remove the scratches without too much effort. 🙂
Soapstone is a soft, dense, and heat-resistant rock that is composed primarily of talc, with smaller amounts of other minerals such as chlorite, amphibole, and carbonates. It has a smooth and soapy feel, hence the name “soapstone”. Soapstone has been used for thousands of years for a variety of purposes, including as a carving stone, as a material for stove liners, and as a laboratory surface due to its chemical resistance and durability.
To care for soapstone, follow these steps:
- Clean regularly: Use warm water and a mild detergent to clean soapstone surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the surface.
- Seal the surface: Soapstone is naturally porous, and sealing the surface can prevent staining and make it easier to clean. Use a penetrating sealer specifically designed for soapstone.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes: Soapstone is resistant to heat, but sudden changes in temperature can cause cracks. Use trivets or heat pads to protect the surface when placing hot items on it.
- Avoid cutting directly on the surface: Use a cutting board to protect the soapstone surface from scratches.
- Maintain the natural patina: The natural patina of soapstone will darken over time, giving it a unique and beautiful appearance. If you prefer the lighter color, use a natural oil to maintain the finish.
By following these steps, you can keep your soapstone looking beautiful for many years to come.