There are many facts about soapstone that are pretty surprising. Here are a few interesting facts about soapstone that you probably did not know. For all your soapstone needs, contact Dorado Soapstone today!

 

Long-term Historical Use

Soapstone is found throughout the globe, and because of its fundamental usefulness, it has played an essential role in many civilizations. Arctic houses have traditionally utilized soapstone for lamp bases and heating appliances. A further benefit of using tiny blocks is that they may be cooked over a fire and then tucked into bedding to maintain body warmth while sleeping or can be placed into sleighs to keep hands or feet warm when riding. Signets, amulets, traditional carvings, graves, and even bowls or pots may be made from soapstone carved and glazed anywhere globally.

 

Ice Alternative

Soapstone has an incredible ability to absorb heat and cold without damaging it. Not only this, but it also maintains its temperature for a long time. It has been commonly used in drinks like whiskey, where you want to cool the beverage but you don’t want it diluted with water. It works very similarly to ice in that it keeps a drink cool for over thirty minutes. 

 

Not All Soapstone is the Same

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock. This means that many different types of stones were all melted together under tremendous heat and pressure. When used as a countertop, the soapstone is usually of the harder variety. However, softer soapstone is often used in sculpting.

 

Sculptures

One of the most famous sculptures in the world is Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. This colossal statue can be seen from extremely far away and is revered by many. The statue rests on a concrete foundation and is clad in triangular soapstone tiles. Considering that the monument stands 98 feet tall and was built in 1931, it’s remarkable. To date, it has stood up to the rigors of weathering for more than 83 years. The soapstone provides a dazzling casing that gives the statue some of its beauty. Soapstone is a ubiquitous sculpting tool that has been used around the world.

 

Metamorphic Stone

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that undergoes metamorphism. Both referred to as soapstone they are made of different materials.

• The softest mineral on Earth, talc, is utilized to produce a variety of products, including cosmetics, refractory materials, sculptures, and even baby powder. 
• The hard stone used for worktops, sinks, and masonry heaters is the same as steatite (sometimes called soapstone).

 

Why is it Called Soapstone?

Because talc is used in such large amounts in the stone, it is believed that softer varieties give a soap-like feel to the touch. The current term for this texture, soapstone, is more straightforward to pronounce than the older one, magnesiumdunstone.

 

Contemporary Real-World Applications

This should come as no surprise since soapstone is a prevalent countertop material in contemporary times. Still, because it is so flexible, you will probably find it in your house in more locations than you think. Soapstone is widely used as an insulator in electrical components and housing materials because it has low conductivity.

 

Contact Dorado Soapstone Today

Soapstone is a versatile and attractive stone among the options available on the market. It has an uncompromising standard of quality, and that means that it will serve only to enrich your house. Soapstone is an excellent choice for any project, whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or even your backyard barbeque. Visit Dorado Soapstone to learn more about soapstone or to take the next step towards your remodeling.