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Green soapstone is formed in subduction zones and is a combination of talc, chlorite, dolomite, and magnesite. It is popular for sculpting, building fireplaces and stoves, and as a work surface. It is environmentally safe, non-slip, and requires periodic polishing with mineral oil.
Green soapstone is formed from large deposits of talc that occur in subduction zones, where tectonic plates rub against each other. The gradual movement of the slabs causes the stone to undergo a chemical change called dynamothermal metamorphism, which recrystallizes the chemical components of the stone, resulting in a combination of talc, chlorite, dolomite and magnesite. Most of the soapstone used in the United States comes from Brazil, but other large deposits have been found in Finland. There are smaller, but still commercially viable deposits in Virginia.
Popular with sculptors for centuries, green soapstone is softer than a fingernail. Soapstone can be easily cut and carved with ordinary woodworking and masonry tools and gives off a high gloss when polished. Unfinished soapstone is a dull gray color and needs to be polished with mineral oil to bring out the green color.
Green soapstone has long been used to build fireplaces and stoves. Soapstone stoves have excellent heat retention qualities and radiate heat long after the fire has gone out. Its low surface temperature makes it a safer alternative to steel, and its ability to withstand direct flame without cracking or discoloration makes it better than clay or ceramic for use in a fireplace.
Another area of use where green soapstone has been popular for over 300 years is as a work surface. Early American settlers recognized soapstone’s density and durability and incorporated it into the kitchen in many ways, including countertops, sinks, and stovetop liners. There has been a resurgence of green soapstone countertops as an alternative to other natural stones such as granite and marble. Unlike granite, soapstone will scratch when cut with a knife, but even a large scratch can be easily smoothed out. Soapstone also comes in larger slabs than other stones, so larger countertops and work surfaces can be covered without unsightly seams.
Green soapstone also has the advantage of not being slippery when wet and is considered an environmentally safe non-slip material. Unlike other natural stones, soapstone is inert, meaning that acidic and alkaline substances will not harm it, or direct heat. Because of its softness, experts recommend installing soapstone countertop supports with overhangs of more than 10cm (25.4 inches). The only maintenance required for a soapstone countertop is periodic polishing with mineral oil. Polishing not only brings out the natural color and luster of the stone, it also hides minor scratches and evens out wear and tear on the countertop.
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