Black soapstone is a soft, black metamorphic rock containing talc and magnesium. It has a “soapy” feel and is ideal for carving. It is widely used for worktops and can be repaired by sanding and applying mineral oil.
Black soapstone is classified as a soft, black, metamorphic rock. Soapstone is also sometimes called steatite or soapstone. Metamorphic rocks, like this one, are formed from a rock type through a physical change over time. The changes that produce this category of rocks are dynamothermal, or heat-based, and metasomatism, which involves a change caused by fluids and heat in combination. Although heat is involved in the formation of soapstone from a protolith, or source rock, it is never formed by melting.
Black soapstone is also described as a talc-schist. It contains large amounts of the mineral talc, as well as amounts of the element magnesium. The final syllable “schist” indicates that this rock is a member of a group of metamorphic rocks that typically contain significant amounts of minerals such as talc, micas, hornblende, graphite, and chlorite.
Shales are also known to have mineral grains that break easily into flakes or slabs. Black soapstone often shares this characteristic to some extent. It is distinguished from other similar stones, however, by its “soapy” feel. Soapstone, including black soapstone, is found all over the world, making it readily available for everything from sculptures to kitchen countertops and tile.
The color of black soapstone comes from a number of different factors. These factors include the presence of various chemicals and minerals that may have interacted long ago during the formation of the rock. No single cause or component can explain the colors found in any type of soapstone. When cut, black soapstone will react with the oxygen in the air and change from its original gray to a darker charcoal color.
The characteristics of black soapstone make it ideal for carving. Some bowls and carvings even date back 1600 years. It is one of the softest and most malleable stones in existence anywhere. Molds used for casting soft metals are often made from soapstone, in part due to its ability to absorb and dissipate heat evenly.
Soapstone is widely used for worktops; with black soapstone being a popular choice. The color and texture of all stone types is why it is such a popular choice. Scuffs and scratches on worktops can be repaired by carefully sanding the affected area and then applying mineral oil. The application of mineral oil can also serve to intensify existing color or make the veins in the rock stand out more.
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