soapstone

Soapstone is a natural stone made mostly of talc, which gives it a soft, smooth texture similar to soap. It is dense, heat-resistant, and durable, making it ideal for applications like countertops, fireplaces, and sculptures. Its ability to absorb and evenly distribute heat makes it popular for heating stoves and cooking surfaces. The stone's natural variations in color and veining add aesthetic appeal. Because it is soft when initially quarried, soapstone is relatively easy to carve and shape, but it becomes very durable once hardened with heat or age.