soapstone is a type of talc schist metamorphic rock. also other namingâ??s are steatite or soaprock. the composed primarily of talc, with varying amount of micas, chlorite, amphiboles, carbonates and other minerals. it is produced by dynamothermal metamorphism and metasomatism. it occurs in the regions where tectonic plates are present, replacing the rocks with heat and pressure, with the flow of liquids, but without melting. it has been an environment for carving for thousands of years. it is composed primarily of talc so it usually very soft. it is typically gray, bluish, green, or brown in color, often variegated. its name is derived from its soapyâ?? feel and softness.
texture: non foliated to weakly foliated; fine grained
composition: talc index minerals: talc
color: white, green or gray
miscellaneous: softer than fingernail; may be schistose in texture
metamorphic type: hydrothermal
metamorphic grade: low to medium gr.
