Soapstone is the common name for the mineral steatite: at least 50% talc combined with other minerals that have been geologically metamorphosed into stone through heat, pressure and time. The talc gives the stone its soft, soapy feel.
Where it works
- Countertops
- Sinks
- Cooking slabs
- Fireplace liners
- Hearths
- Woodstoves
Soapstone colors we've worked with
A sampling from past projects. Availability changes slab to slab; visit the showroom to see what's in the yard right now.
Green Slate Soapstone
New Ice Flower Soapstone
Soapstone
Floresta Soapstone
Green Soapstone
White Soapstone
Completed countertop projects
See recent StoneOne countertop installations. Material availability changes by slab.
Common questions
Are there different kinds of soapstone?
Yes. Artistic soapstone has a high talc content and is very soft, so it is used for carving. Architectural soapstone is used for sinks, countertops, floors and other building elements.
Can soapstone harbor bacteria?
No. Soapstone is dense and completely non-porous, so it does not give bacteria a place to enter the surface.
Where does it come from?
Soapstone is found in the Appalachian range from Maine to Georgia, with significant deposits in Vermont and Virginia. Finland and Brazil are the largest international producers.
Does soapstone vary?
Yes. Its appearance, hardness and purity vary from one deposit to another.
Does the softness of soapstone affect wear?
Yes. Over time, soapstone can develop softer edges, nicks, scratches and dents. Light sanding can remove scratches if desired.
Are there disadvantages to using soapstone?
Soapstone has a limited color range, darkens with age, needs periodic oiling for an even appearance, and scratches more easily than harder stone.
Will soapstone stain?
No. Soapstone is non-porous, so liquids do not penetrate it. A spill can temporarily darken the surface, but it will lighten again after the liquid evaporates or is wiped away.
Will soapstone etch?
No. Soapstone is chemically neutral, so acids such as lemon and tomato juice do not affect it.
Does it scratch?
It scratches more easily than other natural stone, but it repairs more easily too: apply mineral oil or wax to the scratch, or give deeper marks a light sanding.
Does it need sealing?
No sealing, ever. We do recommend periodic mineral oil to keep the natural darkening uniform and bring out the stone's rich color: weekly for the first few months, then monthly or less.
Why apply mineral oil to soapstone?
Mineral oil helps keep the natural darkening even and brings out the stone's rich color.
How often should I apply mineral oil?
We recommend weekly applications for the first two or three months, then monthly or less, depending on use.