Properties of Soapstone

Soapstone is a soft stone that is easily carved and cut. This type of stone has been used in many applications over the years. Some Native Americans used soapstone to carve their peace pipes. It is also ground into a powder for facial masks, skin treatments and cosmetics. You can find soapstone all across the globe.

Hardness

• Soapstone is very soft material. On the Mohr's scale of harness, it is a 1. This type of stone is so soft that it can be scratched with a fingernail or sharp object.

Composition

• The chemical composition of soapstone is Mg3{(OH)2/Si4O10]. It has a monoclinic crystallization and is found in either pieces or powdered form.

Colors

• You can find soapstone in a variety of colors. There is white, pink, red, yellow, green and gray soapstone.

Healing Properties

• You can apply ground soapstone to your skin as a treatment for red skin patches, itchy skin, acne, sunburn and skin allergies. It has also been used to prevent sweaty hands if you are prone to such an issue.