Internet Encyclopedia of Science
GEOLOGY & PLANETARY SCIENCE
A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

          • HOME
• ABOUT
• CATEGORIES
• USE OF TEXT AND IMAGES
• NEWSLETTER

  



soapstone


soapstone
Also called steatite, a metamorphic rock consisting of talc with serpentine and carbonates, formed by alteration of peridotite. Soft and soapy to the touch, soapstone has been used from prehistoric times for carvings and vessels. When fired, it becomes hard and is used for insulators.


Related category

   • GEOLOGY AND PLANETARY SCIENCE


Also on this site:

Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History


BACK TO TOP